Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller gives parents of multiple kids an easy way to move their children around. The best models are easy to fold, carry and place into a trunk of a car. They also have various seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
If your children are close in age, you could decide that a sit-and stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid fights between siblings over the best seat to use. We also like options which allow two infant car seats like the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable and safe for both your toddler and baby. Pick one with cushioned seats, a large base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth out bumps in the road, and buckles that are simple to fasten and unfasten.
Look for a large UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children and their parents. Adjustable footrests allow your child to sit in the back seat when they are exhausted. Some double strollers provide this feature for both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
How many seats you choose in your stroller is contingent on the ages and weights of the children who are riding in it. A side-by-side baby stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at the same time, making it ideal for twins or siblings of a similar age. However, it's typically wider than other models and may be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or in crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand up while you push a smaller child in an infant car-seat. It's not ideal for newborns, but it can be an ideal choice once your kiddos are around three years old and are able to walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is an additional alternative. It comes with a variety of seating options and can be used for years as a double or single. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a great option for parents who wish to buy one stroller but want to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem pick however, it will last a long time, offers a high return value, and is extremely versatile," she says.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It's not as compact as the other options we tested however it does have an elegant, modern design and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It has foam-filled wheels that won't sag and a huge storage bin.
Easy to Use
A double stroller can be an expensive investment. Parents are therefore looking for models that are simple to use. It should include a variety of features like the ability to fold the stroller into a compact size and to adjust the handlebar's height to suit different users. Some models come with multiple storage compartments that allow families to organize their belongings to make them easy to access. They also have parent consoles and organizer bags that keep phones, keys and other necessities on hand.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing needs of your family as time goes by. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example is a budget-friendly stroller that includes a modular system. It allows you to add a seat, transform the stroller into a triple with an additional board, or convert it to a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This flexibility lets double strollers to last for as long as you need it.
In terms of maneuverability, some side-by-side models aren't able to turn at a whim however, many of our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of use and maneuverability of the inline Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model can be used with all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins and kids of varying ages. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers we've test.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, it's on the other hand, has a streamlined look and a large basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's seat. It can also be used by a single child up to the age of three and is a smooth ride due to its foam-filled tires which are designed not to go flat.
In addition, the UPPAbaby is super light at only 18 pounds, and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that's easy to transport and put away. It is also easy to open and close using a latch, and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts selected it as their top choice for its affordability and long-term durability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags jackets, water bottles, and other items along with the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They should also be able slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. They often need to fit in the trunk of a vehicle, so they must be simple to fold and compact when not being used.
To meet these requirements, double strollers can be constructed in a variety of designs. double pushchair can be tandem or side-by-side with removable or fixed seats or a baby car seats and a rideboard. They can be made to accommodate a single infant or toddler or twins. Some are designed for running, while others could be used on trails for hiking and at the beach.
Modular designs are particularly helpful for families that need to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example, is designed to allow parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments, and car seats, so that the stroller can serve the family from birth through toddlerhood.
Other double strollers with modular designs like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to a single child by using the bassinet or baby seat or a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby's versatility allows it to be set up in a variety of ways, making it ideal for twins and siblings, or for a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is recognized for its green initiatives, and it is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in various colors, and its materials are made from recycled water bottles. In our testing, our test participant Raul used the double stroller with his three year old daughter and 5-month-old son. He says it was easy to disassemble and unpack because the components came in neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code included.
The UPPAbaby also has a telescoping handlebar, and brakes that operate with your thumb. The swiveling wheels at the front can assist in making more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers have been criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of strollers are sleek and provide a variety of options for customization. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in line, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It also has to pass regular inspections. You'll want to make sure that the suspension system gives an easy ride for your children when they are in the front seat. If your stroller comes with an armrest, make sure it's adjustable to accommodate parents and dads of various heights.
A canopy is another essential feature that protects your children from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The best canopies have a reversible flap or transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows to allow you to monitor your children without disturbing them. Some canopies also come with visors that block direct sunlight.
Another important metric to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Strollers that are compact when folded are more convenient to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers that have a single hand-release button that folds the chassis more user-friendly.
When choosing a double stroller, bear in mind the distance your children are in age and what type of outings you plan on taking them on. For instance, if you're children are similar in age it is possible to choose a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can interact on outings. On the other hand, if your children have a significant age gap then you may want to consider a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, select one with a good attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. It won't have as much of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics however it's a crucial factor to consider if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.
