Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller gives parents of multiple kids an enjoyable way to take their children around. The best strollers are easy to fold and carry and can easily fit in a car trunk and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of different age groups.
If your children are similar in age, you could decide that a sit-and stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid fighting between siblings over which seat to choose. We also recommend options that can accommodate two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby and toddler are comfortable in the stroller. Pick a stroller that has comfortable seats and swiveling tires on the front to smooth out road bumps. Also, pick one that has buckles that are easily removed and fastened.
You could also consider a large, UPF 50+ canopy, which provides sun protection and plenty of coverage for both children. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests that let your child sit up in the back seat if they get tired. Some double strollers, such as the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children using it. For example, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both children at the same time and is ideal for twins or siblings who are close in age. It's wider than other configurations and may be difficult to maneuver in tight or narrow areas.
On the other hand, a sit-and-stand stroller gives older siblings a chance to stand while you push the younger one in a car seat for infants. It's not a good choice for babies but it's suitable once your kiddos are around three years old and are able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller, that has multiple seating options and can be used as a single or double for several years. Rebecca says that this type of stroller is 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 however, it will last for a long time, has a great potential for resales 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 is not as compact as other options, but it features an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar and easy-to-press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't flatten and a large storage bin.
Simple to Use
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents are often looking for one that is simple to use. That means a broad range of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be available. Certain models have multiple storage compartments that allow families to separate belongings for easy access. They also come with parent consoles and organizer bags to keep keys, phones and other necessities on the ready.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing requirements of your family as time goes by. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example, is a budget-friendly stroller with an adjustable system. It lets you add a seat, transform the stroller into a triple using an additional board, or convert it to a single mode by adding a bench at the rear. This flexibility allows double strollers to last for as long as is required.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however 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 various age groups. The telescoping handlebar as well as the simple-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver than other double strollers that we tested.
On the other hand, the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with an elegant design and a large storage basket that can accommodate two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat and an ordinary child's seat. It can be used by a single child up to age three. Its foam-filled tires are made to not flatten.
The UPPAbaby folds in half, making it easy to store and carry. It's also super lightweight at just 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and re-close with an latch, and requires no tools to put together. It was a top choice from our Lab experts for its durability and versatility, as well as its price.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets along with the keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able to slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. When not in use they often have to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers are constructed in a variety of styles. They can be side-by-side or tandem and can also have fixed or removable seats or come with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are suitable for jogging, while others can be used on hiking trails and at the beach.
Modular designs are particularly helpful for families that need to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example, allows parents to mix and blend seats units, cots and car seats to make the stroller fit all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers with modular designs, like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be adapted for one child by the use of a baby seat or bassinet, or a toddler with a jump seat or standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby's versatility allows it to be configured in 30 different ways, making it suitable for twins or siblings, or even a growing family.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes green and sustainability initiatives. double pushchair is available in many colors, and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul used this double stroller with his 3 year old daughter and five-month old son. 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.
The UPPAbaby also comes with a telescoping handlebar and brakes that are operated by your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can aid in making tighter turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are a bit of received a bad rap for being bulky and difficult to maneuver, the new generation of models are sleek and offer many customization options. You can even find one that will fit the car seat of your infant, making it even more convenient to go out and about with two kids with you.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, make sure it's JPMA certified to ensure it complies with the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You'll want to ensure that the suspension system gives a smooth ride for your children in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, make sure it's adjustable to fit Moms and Dads of different heights.
A canopy can protect your child from the harsh sun and harsh weather. The best canopy features an reversible flap as well as a transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo to allow you to monitor your children without disturbing them. Some canopies also have visors to block direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is an important aspect to take into consideration. Strollers that are compact when folded are easier to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers with one hand-release button that folds the chassis are much more convenient 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 intend to take with them. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem stroller that is high/low to allow them to interact during outings. On the other hand, if your children have a large age gap then you may want to consider an option that is side-by-side, which gives them more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, choose one with a high attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. It won't have as much impact on your overall rating as the other metrics however it's a crucial aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using adapters for car seats.