Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are simple to fold and transport and can easily fit in a car trunk and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of different age groups.
Parents of children who are close to age may find a side-by-side or sit-and-stand design is the best to avoid sibling fights about who is allowed to ride in which seat. We also like the options that allow two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is important that your toddler and baby are both at ease in the stroller. Choose one that has cushioned seats, a large base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth out bumps in the road, and buckles that are simple to secure and remove.
Look for a large UPF 50+ canopy to offer sun protection for both children and their parents. Adjustable footrests let your child to sit in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, such as the top-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
How many seats you choose in your stroller is contingent on the weights and ages of the children who are riding in it. For example, 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. It's wider than other configurations and may be difficult to maneuver in tight or narrow spaces.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand while you push a younger child in a car seat for infants. It's not a good choice for babies but it's an ideal choice once your kiddos are around three years old and are able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller, that has multiple seating options and can be used as a double or single for a number of years. Rebecca says that this type 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 our top tandem pick, but it will last a long time, offers a high potential for resales 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 is not as compact as other options but it does have a sleek design and high-quality material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar as well as easy to press brakes. It also has foam-filled tires that aren't flat, and a large storage basket.
Easy of double pram and pushchair is an expensive investment. Parents are therefore seeking models that are easy to use. It should come with a range of features, including the ability to fold the stroller compactly and to adjust the handlebar's height to accommodate different types of users. Some models have multiple storage compartments to enable families to keep their belongings separate to make it easier to access. They also come with parent consoles and organizer bags to keep keys, phones and other essentials on fingertips.
A stroller is supposed to be able to adjust to your family's needs throughout the years, too. For instance, a budget-friendly option such as the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that lets you add a seat, transform it into a triple using the rideboard, or change to a single mode with an additional bench in the rear. This flexibility lets double strollers to last as long as is required.
In terms of maneuverability, a lot of side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but 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 different age groups. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver than other double strollers that we tested.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with a streamlined design and a large storage basket that can accommodate two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat plus an ordinary child's seat. It can be used by one child from age three. Its foam-filled tires are designed to last and not wear out.
Furthermore, the UPPAbaby is super light at only 18 pounds and folds down in half for a sleek package that's easy to transport and to store. It is also easy to close and open using the latch, and requires no tools for assembling. Our Lab experts chose it as the top pick for its price, shopability and longevity.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags, water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for children and parents' wallets, keys phones, and other items. They must also be able to slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight places. They are often required to fit in the trunk of a vehicle, so they should be easy to fold and compact when not being used.
To meet these needs Double strollers can be built in a wide range of styles. They can be side-byside or tandem with fixed or removable seats or a baby car seat and a ridingboard. They can also be designed to accommodate a single toddler or newborn, or twins. Some are designed for running while others are used at the beach or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are especially useful for families who need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance, allows parents to mix and combine seats, cots, and car seats to let the stroller suitable for the entire family from newborn to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be converted to a single child by using a bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler by using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in a wide range of colors, and its materials are made out of recycled water bottles. Our test subject Raul used the double stroller with his 3 year old daughter and five-month-old son. He found it easy to unpack the parts and assemble them since they came in neatly-labeled boxes with video and instructions.
Another excellent characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar and brakes that are one-handed and can be operated by your thumb. The swiveling front wheel will allow it to make precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers have a bad reputation as cumbersome and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of models are sleek and provide a variety of customization options. You may even find one that fits your car seat for infants, making it even easier to get out and about with two children in the stroller.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in line, ensure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it is safe to use. It will also go through regular inspections. You'll need to ensure that the suspension system gives a smooth ride for your children in the front seat. And if your stroller has a handlebar, make sure it's adjustable to fit parents and dads of various heights.
A canopy can shield your child from the harsh sun and inclement weather. The best canopies have a reversible flap or transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows to let you monitor your children without disturbing them. Some canopies have the ability to shade direct sunlight.
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 space. Strollers that have one button to fold the chassis are also simpler to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind the distance your children are and what type of outings you are planning to take them on. For example, if your children are similar in age it is possible to choose an incline-to-low tandem stroller so that they can get to know each other during outings. If your children are separated by the age gap, you may choose one that gives them more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that integrates with top-rated car seat brands and has high attachment scores. It won't have as much of an impact on your overall rating as other factors but it's an important consideration if you're planning on using car seat adapters.