Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller offers parents with multiple children an enjoyable way to take them around. The best models are easy to fold and carry and fit nicely in a car trunk and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of various age groups.
If your children are close in age, you might consider a sit-and-stand or side-byside style is the best method to avoid fights between siblings over the best seat to use. We also like the options that can accommodate two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double.
Comfort
It is crucial that your baby and toddler are at ease in the stroller. Pick one with padding for the seats, a wide base and swiveling front wheels to smooth out bumps in the road and buckles that are easy to secure and remove.
You can also look for a generous UPF 50+ canopy, which provides sun protection and ample coverage for both kids. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests, which allow your child to stand in the back of the seat when they are tired. Some double strollers offer this option to both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
The number of seats you select in your stroller depends on the weights and ages of the children riding in it. For instance, a side by side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both children simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's generally wider than other models and may be difficult to navigate in narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
On the other hand, a sit-and stand stroller gives older siblings a chance to stand while you push the baby in the infant car seat. It's not the ideal choice for newborns but can be beneficial for older children who are able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller, which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or single for a number of years. Rebecca says that this type of stroller would be an ideal choice for parents who plan to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection, but it will last for a long time, has great resale value and is incredibly 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 some of the other strollers we've tried however, it comes with sleek, modern designs and high-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar as well as easy-to-press brakes. It also comes with tires filled with foam that won't go flat and a large storage basket.
Easy to Use
A double stroller isn't an inexpensive investment, which is why parents often seek one that is simple to use. It should include a variety of features like the capability to fold the stroller into a compact size and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different types of users. Some models have multiple storage compartments to allow families to organize their belongings for easy access. They also come with parent consoles and organizer bags to keep phones, keys, and other essentials at the ready.
A stroller is supposed to be able to adjust to your family's needs as they grow older as well. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example, is a budget-friendly stroller that includes a modular system. It lets you add another seat, convert the stroller into a triple by adding a board, or switch it into a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This flexibility lets a double stroller to last as long as it is needed.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but our Lab testers were impressed with the ease of using and maneuverability of 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 different ages. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers we tried.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, on the other hand has a sleek design and an ample basket that can fit two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's car seat. It can be used by one child as young as three years old. Its tires that are filled with foam are made to not flatten.
Additionally to that, the UPPAbaby is light at only 18 pounds, and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that is easy to carry and put away. It's also simple to open and close with the latch and doesn't require tools to put together. Our Lab experts selected it as their top choice for its affordability, shopability and longevity.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets along with the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They should also be able to glide across different surfaces and maneuver through tight spaces. When not in use they are often required to fit into the trunk of a car.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers can be constructed in a variety of designs. They can be side-byside or tandem with fixed or removable seats or equipped with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others could be used for hiking trails and at the beach.
Modular designs are especially useful for families who want to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and combine seats, cots, and car seats to let the stroller fit all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be adapted for a single child through the use of bassinets or a baby seat or a toddler's with a jump seat or standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible 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 is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes 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 as well as three-year-old daughter. He said it was simple to take apart and assemble since the parts came in neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
The UPPAbaby also features a telescoping handlebar and brakes that operate with your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can aid in making more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized as being heavy, difficult to maneuver and bulky. However, the newest models are sleeker and provide a variety of customization options. You might even find one that is compatible with your infant car seat making it easier to get out and about with two kids in the stroller.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side, or in line, ensure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. It also has to pass regular inspections. Also, you should look for suspension systems that provide a smooth ride and doesn't create bumps or jostling for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can shield your child from the harsh sun and inclement weather. The best canopies come with a reversible window or a transparent plastic peek-aboo that lets you watch your child's progress without disturbing them. Certain canopies come with visors that block direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is a second important aspect to take into consideration. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are more convenient to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers that have a single button to fold the chassis are simpler to use.
When deciding which double stroller to buy, consider the age difference between your children as well as the type of excursion you plan to take with them. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to interact on outings. On the other hand, if your children have a large age gap, you might choose an option that is side-by-side, which gives them more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, select one with a good 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 is still important if you plan to utilize car seat adapters.