Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient method for parents to carry multiple children. The best strollers are lightweight and easy to fold and carry, fit well inside a trunk of a car, and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of various ages.
Parents with children close in age may find a side-by-side or sit-and-stand style works best to prevent sibling rivalries over who gets to ride in which seat. We also like the options that accept two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
It is important that your toddler and baby are at ease in the stroller. Select one with cushioned seats, a large base and swiveling front wheels to smooth bumps on the road, and buckles that are simple to secure and remove.
You can also look for a generous, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection as well as plenty of coverage for both children. double running buggy that can be adjusted allow your child to stand in the rear seat if they are exhausted. Some double strollers, such as the best-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you can have in your stroller will be determined by the weight and age of the children using it. A side-by-side baby stroller allows you to watch two children at the same time, making it ideal for twins or siblings of similar age. However, it's generally wider than other types and can be challenging to maneuver through narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand up while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not the best option for infants, but it can be useful for older children that can walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is a different option. It has multiple seating configurations and can be used as a double or single. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a great option for parents who only want to buy one stroller but want to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem choice but it will last for a long time, offers a high return value, 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's not as compact as other models, but it features an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and it has an adjustable handlebar that can be telescopically adjusted and brakes that are easy to press. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't flatten and a large storage bin.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller isn't a cheap investment, so parents often seek one that is simple to use. It should come with a range of features like the ability to fold the stroller into a compact size and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users. Some models come with multiple storage compartments to allow families to organize their belongings for easy access. They also include parent consoles and organizer bags that keep keys, phones, and other essentials at the ready.
A stroller must be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family as time goes by. For instance, a budget-friendly option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that lets you add a second seat, convert it into a triple using the rideboard, or change to a single mode with the rear bench. This flexibility allows double strollers to last for as long as it is needed.
In terms of maneuverability, a lot of side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver. However, 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 age groups. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver over the other double strollers that we tested.
On the other side, the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double has an elegant design and a large storage basket that can fit two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat in addition to a regular child seat. It can be used by a single child as young as three years old. Its tires that are filled with foam are designed to not go flat.
In addition to that, the UPPAbaby is lightweight at only 18 pounds and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that is easy to transport and store. It's also easy to open and close with a latch, and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts selected it as their top choice for its affordability and long-term durability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers must be able to accommodate diaper bags and water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for kids, as well as parents keys, wallets phones and other things. They must also be able to slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight places. When not in use they usually have to be tucked into the trunk of a car.
Double strollers come in a variety of styles to meet your needs. They can be tandem or side-by-side with removable or fixed seats, or with an infant car seats and a riding board. They can be made to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are suited for running, while others could be used on hiking trails and at the beach.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families who want to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance is designed to permit parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments, and car seats, so that the stroller can serve the family from birth until toddlerhood.
Other double strollers with modular designs like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate one child by the use of bassinet or baby seat or a toddler's with an elevated seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's perfect for twins, siblings or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also committed to sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in a variety of colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul used the double stroller with his three-year old daughter and 5-month-old son. He says it was easy to unpack and assemble because the parts came in neatly labeled boxes with instructions and a video code included.
The UPPAbaby also features a telescoping handlebar, and brakes controlled by your thumb. The swiveling front wheel can help it make tight turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers have received a bad rap for being bulky and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of models are sleek and come with a range of options for customization. You may even find one that fits your infant car seat making it more convenient to go out and about with two children in tow.
If you're shopping for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side, or in line, be sure it is JPMA-certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It also has to pass regular inspections. Also, you should consider a suspension system that provides smooth riding and doesn't cause bumps, or jolting for your little ones in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy is a crucial feature that will protect your children from harsh sunlight or the harsh weather. The best canopies come with an reversible window or transparent plastic peek-aboo which lets you watch your child's progress without causing any disturbance. Certain canopies come with visors that block the direct sun.
Another important metric to take into consideration is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are simpler to put in the trunk of your car and take up less room. Strollers that come with one button to fold the chassis are easier to use.
When choosing a double stroller, keep in mind how far your children are in age and what kind of excursions you're planning to take them on. For instance, if your children are similar in age, you may want to opt for a tandem high-low stroller so that they can be together when outings are planned. On the other hand, if your children have a large age gap then you may want to consider a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller for baby car seats, choose a model with a high attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as much of an impact on the overall rating as other indicators however it is crucial if you intend to utilize car seat adapters.