Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are reasonably easy to fold and carry, fit well in a car trunk and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of different age groups.
Parents of children who are close to age may find that a side-by-side or sit-and-stand design is the best to avoid sibling fights over who gets to ride in which car seat. We also like the options that accept two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby and toddler are both at ease in the stroller. Select a stroller with padded seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth out road bumps. Also, pick one that has buckles that can be easily fastened and unfastened.
You can also look for a generous, UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and ample coverage for both kids. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests, which allow your child to stand in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers give this option to both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
The number of seats you can put 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 both kids simultaneously which is perfect for twins or siblings close in age. It's larger than other models and isn't easy to maneuver in crowded or narrow areas.
On the other hand, a sit-and stand stroller allows older siblings to stand while you push the younger one in a car seat for infants. It's not the ideal choice for newborns but can be useful for older children that can walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is a different alternative. It comes with a variety of seating options and can be used as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller would be an excellent option for parents who are planning to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem pick however it will last an extended period of time and comes with an excellent resale value, she adds.
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 other options but it does have an elegant design and premium material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with an adjustable bar that can be telescoping and press brakes. It also comes with foam-filled tires that won't go flat and an ample storage basket.
Ease of Use
A double stroller is not an investment that is cheap, and parents are usually looking for one that is simple to use. This means a variety of features, ranging from the ability to fold it up compactly to adjusting the handlebar height to accommodate different users, must be readily available. Some models also have more than one storage space to allow families to split items for quick access, and organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep keys, phone and other items easily accessible.
A stroller must be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. For instance, a budget-friendly option such as the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that allows you to add another seat, convert it to a triple with an incline board, or change to a single mode by using an additional bench in 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, but our Lab testers were impressed with the ease of use 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 different ages. The telescoping handles and simple-to-use brakes make it more maneuverable than other double strollers we evaluated.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, it's on the other hand, is sleek and stylish. It also comes with 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 a single child up to age three. Its tires that are filled with foam are designed to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds down in half and is easy to store and transport. It's also extremely light, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with a latch and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts picked it as the best choice for its affordability, shopability and longevity.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers should be able to accommodate diaper bags and water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for the kids and parents keys, wallets, phones and other belongings. They also need to be able to glide over different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. They usually have to fit in the trunk of a car, therefore they must be easy to fold and compact when not in use.
Double strollers come in many different styles to meet your needs. They can be side-by-side or tandem, and they can have seats that can be removed or fixed or even be outfitted with infant car seats as well as a riding board. They can also be designed to fit a single newborn or toddler or twins. Some are designed for running while others are utilized at the beach or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families that need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and match seat units, cots, and car seats to let the stroller suitable for the entire family from newborn to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers with modular designs like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be converted to one child with the use of a bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler by using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be configured in a variety of ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings, or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby is available in many 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. He said it was easy to unpack the parts and put them together because they came in neatly-labeled boxes with video and instructions.
Another great characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar as well as brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated by your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels can help it make tight turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized as being cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. They are also heavy. However, double tandem pushchair are sleeker and offer a variety of customization options. You may even find one that is compatible with your infant car seat making it easier to get out and about with two kids with you.
If you're looking for a side-by-side or in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it complies with the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. Also, you should choose an adjustable suspension system that gives smooth riding and doesn't cause bumps, or jolting for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar make sure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy is an additional feature that will protect your babies from harsh sunlight or the harsh weather. The best canopy features an reversible window or clear plastic peek-aboo to let you monitor your child without disturbing them. Some canopies also have the ability to shade direct sunlight.
Another important factor to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are much easier to put in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Strollers that have one button to fold the chassis are also more user-friendly.
When choosing a double stroller, keep in mind how far your children are and what kind of excursions you're planning to take them on. If your children are close in age, you can opt for a tandem high/low stroller in order to let them interact when outings. On the other side, if your kids have a large age gap, you might choose a side-by-side model that gives them more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, choose a model with a high attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as big impact on your overall rating as the other metrics, but it's an important aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using car seat adapters.