Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient way for parents to transport multiple children. The best models are easy to fold, carry and place into the trunk of a car. They also provide flexible seating arrangements for kids of various ages.
Parents of children who are close to age may find that a side-by-side or sit-and stand style is best to avoid sibling squabbles over who rides in which car seat. We also like the options that accept two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby and toddler are comfortable in the stroller. Select double buggy side by side with comfortable seats and swiveling tires at the front to smooth bumps on the road. Also, pick one with buckles that are easily removed and fastened.
Find a large UPF 50+ canopy to offer sun protection for both children and adults. Adjustable footrests let your child to stand in the rear seat when they're exhausted. Some double strollers, like the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats in your stroller will be determined by the weight and age of the children using it. For instance, a side by side stroller lets you keep an eye on two children simultaneously, so it's perfect for twins or siblings who are close in age. It's wider than other configurations and may be difficult to maneuver through crowded or narrow spaces.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not a good choice for babies but it's a good fit when your children are about three years old and able to walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another alternative. It comes with a variety of seating configurations and can be used as a double or single. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a good option for parents who wish to purchase a single stroller but want to use it with two children. It's more expensive than the top tandem model but it'll last for many years 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's not as compact as other options, but it features a sleek design and high-quality material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and has an adjustable bar that can be telescoping and press brakes. It also comes with tires filled with foam that will not wear out and a large storage basket.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller can be an expensive purchase. Parents are therefore seeking models that are easy to use. It should come with a range of features like the ability to fold the stroller compactly and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different types of users. Some models come with more than one storage compartment that allow families to divide items for quick access, as well as parent consoles or organizer bags to keep keys, phone and other necessities easily accessible.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing requirements of your family as time goes by. For instance, a budget-friendly option such as the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that allows you to add a second seat, convert it into a triple by using the rideboard, or change to a single mode by using the rear bench. This flexibility lets double strollers to last as long as is required.
In terms of maneuverability, some side-by-side models aren't able to turn on a dime, but many of our Lab testers appreciated the ease-of-use and maneuverability of the inline 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 age groups. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes make it more flexible than other double strollers that we have tested.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features a streamlined design and a large storage basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or one infant car seat plus an ordinary child seat. It can be used by one child up to age three. Its tires that are filled with foam are designed to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds up in half and is easy to store and carry. It's also super lightweight and weighs only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close using a latch and requires no tools for assembly. Our Lab experts chose it as their top choice for its affordability, shopability and longevity.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets and the keys, wallets and phones of parents. They also need to be able to glide over various surfaces and maneuver into tight spaces. When not in use they are often required to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
Double strollers are available in many different styles to meet these needs. They can be tandem or side-by-side with removable or fixed seats or equipped with infant car seat and a ridingboard. They can be designed to accommodate a single newborn or toddler or twins. Some are suitable for jogging, while others can be used on trails for hiking and at the beach.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families that have to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance, allows parents to mix and combine seat units, cots, and car seats to make the stroller fit the entire family from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers with modular designs such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be modified to fit one child with the use of bassinet or baby seat or a toddler's with a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be configured in a variety of ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives, and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in a wide range of colors and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Our test subject Raul utilized the double stroller with his three-year old daughter and five-month old son. He found it easy to unpack the parts and put them together because they were neatly labeled boxes with video instructions and instructions.
Another excellent feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar, as well as brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated with only your thumb. The swiveling wheels at the front can assist in making tighter turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
While double strollers have received a bad rap for being bulky and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of models are sleek and offer many options for customization. You may even find one that will fit the car seat of your infant making it more convenient to go out and about with two children with you.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side, or in a line, make sure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it is safe to use. It also has to pass regular inspections. You'll need to ensure that the suspension system gives a smooth ride for your children when they are in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can protect your child from the harsh sun and inclement weather. The most effective canopies come with a reversible flap or clear plastic peek-a-boo window to allow you to monitor your children without disturbing them. Certain canopies come with visors that block the 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 less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers that have only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis much more convenient to use.
When deciding which double stroller to buy take into consideration the age gap between your children and the kind of trip you intend to take with them. For instance, if you're children are in the same age range it is possible to choose a tandem high-low stroller so that they can be together during outings. If your children are separated due to a large age gap You can choose one that allows them to have more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller for baby car seats, select one with a good attachment score and is 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 consideration if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.