Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are simple to fold and transport and fit nicely inside a trunk of a car, and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of various age groups.
If your children are similar in age, you could consider a sit-and-stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid sibling fights over which seat to use. We also like options that can accommodate two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double.
Comfort
It is important that your baby and toddler are at ease in the stroller. Select one with padding for the seats, a wide base and swiveling front wheels to smooth bumps on the road, and buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten.
You can also look for a generous, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection and plenty of coverage for both children. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests, which allow your child to stand in the back seat if they are tired. Some double strollers give this feature to both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
The number of seats in your stroller will be determined by the weight and age of the children who will be using it. A side-by-side baby stroller lets you to monitor two children at the same time it is ideal for twins or siblings of similar age. However, it's generally wider than other models and can be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or in crowded areas.
On the other hand, a sit-and stand stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push your younger child in the infant car seat. It's not the best choice for infants, but it can be beneficial for older children that can walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another alternative. It has multiple seating configurations and can be used as a double or single. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a good choice for parents who want to purchase a single stroller but want to use it with two children. It's more expensive than the top tandem model however it will last an extended period of time and comes with a great resale price, she adds.
double pushchair 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 strollers we've tested however it does have a sleek, modern design and high-quality materials. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features a telescoping bar as well as easy to press brakes. It also comes with tires filled with foam that won't go flat and large storage basket.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller is an expensive investment. Parents are therefore looking for models that are simple to use. This means a variety of features, from the ability to fold it compactly to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar for different users, should be readily available. Some models come with multiple storage compartments to allow families to split items for quick access, and organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phone, keys and other items easily accessible.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. For example, a budget-friendly model like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that allows you to add a second seat, convert it into a triple by using the rideboard, or change to a single mode with the rear bench. This flexibility can help double strollers work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, a lot of side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were pleasantly surprised by the ease of use and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with all of our top-rated car seats for infants and can be used by twins or children of various ages. Its telescoping handlebar and simple-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver than other double strollers we've tried.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with sleek design and a large storage basket that can fit two toddler car seats or one infant car seat in addition to an ordinary child seat. It can also be used by a single child up to the age of three. It is a smooth ride due to its foam-filled tires that are designed not to go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds down in half and is simple to store and transport. It's also extremely light and weighs only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and re-close with the latch and doesn't require tools to put together. Our Lab experts picked it as the top pick for its price and shopability, as well as its longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers should be able hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets and the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They should also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight places. They usually have to fit in the trunk of a car, therefore they must be easy to fold up and compact when not in use.
Double strollers come in a variety of styles to meet your needs. They can be tandem or side-byside and can also have seats that are removable or fixed or even be outfitted with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to fit one toddler or infant or twins. Some are made for jogging while others can be used at the beach or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families who need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example allows parents to mix and blend seats units, cots and car seats to let the stroller suitable for all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be converted to one child using a bassinet or baby seat or for a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's great for twins, siblings, or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is recognized for its green initiatives, and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in many colors and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul used the double stroller with his 3 year old daughter and five-month-old son. He says it was easy to take apart and assemble since the components came in neatly labeled boxes with instructions and a video code.
Another excellent feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated by your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels allow it to make tight turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They're also bulky. However, the latest models are sleeker and offer a variety of customization options. You can even find one that fits the car seat of your infant, making it even easier to get out and about with two children in tow.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-byside or in a line, make sure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. It will also go through regular inspections. You'll want to ensure that the suspension system offers an easy ride for your children in the front seat. And if your stroller has a handlebar, be sure it's adjustable to fit the different heights.
A canopy is an additional feature that protects your children from the harsh sun or inclement weather. The best canopies have the option of a reversible flap, or a transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows to let you monitor your children without disturbing them. Certain canopies come with visors that block direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is another important aspect to take into consideration. Strollers that are compact when folded are easier to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers that come with a single button to fold the chassis are easier to use.
When deciding on a double stroller to buy take into consideration the age gap between your children and the kind of trip you're planning to take with them. If your children are close in age, you can opt for a tandem high/low stroller to let them interact when outings. On the other the other hand, if you have a significant age difference, you might choose an option that is side-by-side, which gives them more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, select one with a high attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as much of an impact on the overall rating as other factors but it is still important if you plan to utilize car seat adapters.