Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller provides parents with multiple children a comfortable way to get their children around. The best models are easy to fold and carry and fit nicely inside a trunk of a car, and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of various age groups.
Parents with children close in age may find that a side by side or sit-and-stand design is the best to avoid sibling fights over who rides in which car seat. We also like the options that can accommodate two infant car seats, like the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for both your baby and toddler. Choose a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth out bumps on the road. Also, select one that has buckles that can be easily removed and fastened.
You could also consider an ample, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection as well as plenty of coverage for both children. Adjustable footrests allow your child to stand up in the rear seat when they're exhausted. Some double strollers give this option for both children, including the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
The number of seats you can have in the stroller will be contingent on the weight and age of the children who will be using it. For instance, a side by side stroller lets you keep an eye on two children at the same time which is perfect for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's generally wider than other models and can be challenging to maneuver through narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand while you push a younger child in the infant car seat. It's not the best option for infants however, it could be an ideal choice when your children are about three years old and can walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is a different option. It has multiple seating options and can be used as a double or single. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is a good choice for parents who are planning to purchase one stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem choice however, it will last for a long time, offers a high 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 the other strollers we've tested however, it comes with an elegant, modern design and top-quality materials. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar as well as easy to press brakes. It comes with foam-filled wheels that won't break and a huge storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is a costly investment. Parents are looking for models that are easy to use. It should have a variety of features, including the capability to fold the stroller in a compact manner and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users. Some models also have multiple storage compartments that allow families to divide things up for easy access, as well as organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phone, keys, and other essentials easily accessible.
A stroller should be able to adapt to your family's needs throughout the years also. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example is an affordable stroller that comes with an adjustable system. It lets you add a second seat, transform the stroller into a triple using an additional board, or convert it into a single mode by adding a rear bench. This flexibility allows double strollers to last for as long as it is needed.
When it comes to maneuverability, some side-byside models aren't able to turn on a dime, but the majority of our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of use and maneuverability of the inline Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with all of our top-rated car seats for infants and can be used by twins or children of different age groups. The telescoping handles and simple-to-use brakes make it more maneuverable than other double strollers we evaluated.
On the other side the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features sleek design and a large storage basket that can fit two toddler car seats or one infant car seat and an ordinary child's seat. It can also be used by one child up to three years old and is a smooth ride due to its tires filled with foam that are not designed to run flat.
Furthermore it's light at just 18 pounds, and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that's easy to carry and put away. It's also easy to open and close using the latch, and requires no tools to assemble. It was a top pick by our Lab experts for its durability and versatility, as well as its price.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets, as well as the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They should also be able slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. They usually have to fit in the trunk of a vehicle, so they must be easy to fold up and compact when not when not in use.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers can be built in a wide range of styles. https://qooh.me/clockpet5 can be side-by-side or tandem and can also have seats that are removable or fixed or come with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be made to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are designed for running, while others can be used on hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially useful for families who want to expand their strollers. http://www.stes.tyc.edu.tw/xoops/modules/profile/userinfo.php?uid=1902779 for instance, allows parents to mix and combine seats, cots, and car seats to make the stroller serve the entire family from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to a single child by using the bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler by using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be configured in a variety of ways. It's perfect for twins, siblings, or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives, and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in various colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers, used the double stroller for testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. Raul says it was simple to disassemble and unpack because the parts came in neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code included.
The UPPAbaby also features a telescoping handlebar, and brakes that operate with your thumb. The swiveling wheels at the front can aid in making more precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are a bit of received a bad rap for being bulky and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of strollers are sleek and offer many options for customization. You might even find one that will fit your car seat for infants which makes it easier to get out and about with two kids in tow.
Whether you're looking for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets minimum safety standards and goes through regular inspections. You should also consider an adjustable suspension system that gives an easy ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jolting for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller has an adjustable handlebar, make sure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy is an additional feature that can shield your children from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The best canopies come with a reversible window or a transparent plastic peek-aboo which lets you observe your child without causing any disturbance. Some canopies have visors to block direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is another important aspect to think about. Strollers that are compact when folded are more convenient to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers with only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis are much more convenient to use.
When choosing a double stroller, bear in mind the distance your children are and what type of outings you are planning to take them on. For instance, if you're kids are close in age it is possible to consider a tandem high-low stroller so that they can be together when outings are planned. If your children are separated due to a large age gap, you may choose a model that allows them to have more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, choose one with a high attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. It won't have as much of an impact on your overall rating as the other metrics, but it's an important factor to consider if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.