Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are easy to fold, carry and store in a car trunk. They also offer flexible seating arrangements for kids of various ages.
Parents with children close in age may find that a side-by-side or sit-and stand style is best to prevent sibling rivalries over who rides in which car seat. We also like the options that accept two infant car seats like the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for both your baby and toddler. Select one with cushioned seats, a large base and swiveling front wheels to smooth bumps on the road, and buckles that are easy to unfasten and fasten.
You can also look for an ample UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and plenty of coverage for both kids. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests that allow your child to stand in the back of the seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, like the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you select in your stroller is contingent on the ages and weights of the children who are that are using it. For example, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both children simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings close in age. It's wider than other configurations, and can be difficult to maneuver through crowded or narrow areas.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand up while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not the best choice for babies, but it is useful for older children who can walk longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller that has multiple seating options and can be used as a single or double for a number of years. Rebecca says that this type of stroller would be a good choice for parents who intend to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection, but it will last 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 does have an elegant, modern design and top-quality materials. 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.
Ease of Use
A double stroller can be a costly investment. Parents are therefore seeking models that are easy to use. This means a variety of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar for different users, should be readily available. Some models have more than one storage space to allow families to split up belongings for quick access, as well as organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep keys, phone and other necessities in reach.
A stroller must be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance is a budget-friendly stroller with an adjustable system. This allows you to add a seat, transform the stroller into a triple with an additional board, or convert to a single-mode by adding a bench in the rear. This flexibility can help a double stroller work for the time you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were impressed by 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 ages. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes make it more mobile than other double strollers that we tested.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features sleek design and a huge storage basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or one infant car seat in addition to a regular child seat. Push Chairs And Prams can also be used by one child up to the age of three. It is a smooth ride due to its foam-filled tires that are made to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds down in half and is simple to store and transport. It's also extremely light at just 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and close with a latch and requires no tools to put together. It was a top choice by our Lab experts for its longevity, shopability, and affordability.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers should be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for children, as well as parents keys, wallets phones and other things. They also need to be able to glide across various surfaces and maneuver into tight spaces. When not in use they usually have to be tucked into the trunk of a vehicle.
To meet these requirements Double strollers are constructed in a variety of designs. They can be tandem or side-byside and can also have seats that can be removed or fixed or even be outfitted with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate a single toddler or newborn, or twins. Some are made for running while others are used on beaches or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are especially useful for families that have to grow into their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example allows parents to mix and combine seats, cots, and car seats to let the stroller serve all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be modified to accommodate a single child by using the bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler by using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be set up in a variety of ways, making it ideal for twins or siblings, or even an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives, and its focus is on sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in many colors and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul used the double stroller with his three-year old daughter and five-month old son. He said it was easy to take the parts out and put them together because they came in neatly-labeled boxes with video and instructions.
Another great feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated by your thumb. Its swiveling front wheels allow it to make tight turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They're also heavy. However, the most recent models are sleeker and provide a variety of customization options. You can even find one that fits your infant car seat, making it even more convenient to go out and about with two kids with you.
If you're looking for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, make sure it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets the minimum safety standards and passes 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 comes with a handlebar, make sure it's adjustable to accommodate Moms and Dads of different heights.
A canopy is an additional feature that protects your children from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The best canopy features an reversible flap as well as a clear plastic peek-a-boo window that allows you to watch your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies also come with the ability to shade direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is a second important factor to consider. Compact strollers are easier to put in the trunk of your car and take up less room. Also, strollers that have a single hand-release button that folds the chassis are much easier to use.
When shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind the distance your children are in age and what kind of excursions you're planning to take them on. If your children are close in age you may choose a tandem high/low stroller in order to allow them to be together on outings. On the other the other hand, if you have a significant age gap, you might choose a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you're going to be using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that works with top-rated car seats and has high attachment scores. It won't have as much impact on your overall rating as other metrics however it's a crucial aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using adapters for car seats.