Need Inspiration? Check Out Double Infant Stroller
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller offers parents with multiple children an easy way to move their children around. The best models are easy to fold, carry and place into the trunk of a car. They also offer flexible seating arrangements for kids of various ages.
If your children are similar in age, you could consider a sit-and-stand or side-by-side design is the best method to avoid sibling fights over which seat to choose. We also recommend options that accept two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for both your toddler and baby. Select one with padded seats, a wide 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 offer sun protection for both children. Footrests that can be adjusted allow your child to stand up in the rear seat when they are tired. Some double strollers offer this feature to both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
How many seats you choose in your stroller will depend on the weights and ages of the kids who are riding in it. For instance, a side by side stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings who are close in age. However, it's generally larger than other configurations and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces or crowded areas.
On the other hand, a sit-and-stand stroller allows older siblings to stand while you push your younger child in an infant car seat. It's not the ideal choice for newborns but can be useful for older children who are able to walk longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a single or double for a long time. Rebecca says this kind of stroller would be a good choice for parents who intend to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem model but it will last for a long time and has the best resale value she adds.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It is not as compact as other options however it has an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar as well as brakes that are easy to press. It also has foam-filled tires that aren't flat, and large storage basket.
Ease of Use
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents are often looking for one that is simple to use. It should come with a range of features like the ability to fold the stroller compactly and to adjust the handlebar's height to suit different users. Some models come with more than one storage compartment to allow families to split items for quick access, and organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phones, keys and other necessities in reach.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. For instance, a cost-effective option such as the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that allows you to add a second seat, convert it into a triple using an incline board, or change to a single-mode with an additional bench in the rear. This flexibility can make double strollers last the time you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability and maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of operation and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with our top-rated car seats for infants and can be used by twins or children of various ages. The telescoping handles and simple-to-use brakes allow it to be more flexible than other double strollers we have tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, on the other hand has a sleek design and an ample basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's car seat. It can also be used by one child up to three years old and offers a smooth ride thanks to its tires filled with foam that are not designed to run flat.
The UPPAbaby folds in half and is simple to store and transport. It's also super lightweight, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with a latch and requires no tools for assembly. Our Lab experts selected it as their top choice for its affordability and shopability, as well as its longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets, as well as the keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able move over different surfaces and maneuver in tight places. When not in use they often have to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
Double strollers come in many different designs to meet the needs of parents. They can be tandem or side-byside and can also have seats that can be removed or fixed or come with infant car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to fit a single newborn or toddler or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others can be used on trails for hiking or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families that need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance, is designed to allow parents to mix and match seat units, cot attachments and car seats so that the stroller can serve the entire family from birth to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be converted to one child with the use of the bassinet or baby seat or for a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby's versatility allows it to be configured in a variety of ways, making it suitable for twins or siblings, or even a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives, and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in various colors and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers, utilized this double stroller while testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. Raul says it was simple to take apart and assemble since the components came in neatly labeled boxes, which had instructions and a video code.
Another great aspect 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 will allow it to make precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized for being heavy, difficult to maneuver and heavy. However, the latest models are sleeker and come with various options for customization. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
Whether you're looking for a side-byside or in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You should also look for a suspension system that provides smooth riding and doesn't create bumps or jolting for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller comes with an adjustable handlebar, make sure it is adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy is an additional feature that protects your babies from harsh sunlight or the harsh weather. The most effective canopies come with the option of a reversible flap, or a clear plastic peek-a-boo window to let you monitor your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies have visors that block direct sunlight.
Push Chairs And Prams to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are much easier to store in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Also, strollers that have only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis much easier to use.
When choosing a double stroller, bear in mind the distance your children are and what kind of excursions you are planning to take them on. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem high/low stroller to let them interact when outings. If your children are separated by the age gap you can select a model which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you're going to be using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that integrates with top-rated car seat brands and has a high attachment score. This won't have as big of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics but it's an important aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using adapters for car seats.