Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is an ideal option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are reasonably simple to fold and transport and fit nicely inside a trunk of a car, and have a variety of seating options for children of various ages.
If your children are similar in age, you may decide that a sit-and stand or side-byside style is the best method to avoid sibling fights over the best seat to use. 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. Pick a stroller that has cushioned seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth bumps on the road. Also, pick one with buckles that can be easily unfastened and fastened.
You can also look for a large, UPF 50+ canopy, which provides sun protection and ample coverage for both children. Footrests that can be adjusted allow your child to sit 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 you can put in your stroller will depend on the weights and ages of the kids riding in it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children simultaneously, so it's perfect for twins or siblings close in age. However, it's generally wider than other configurations and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces or in areas with a lot of people.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand while you push a smaller child in a car seat for infants. It's not the best option for infants however, it could be a good fit when your kids are around three years old and can walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another alternative. It offers multiple seating configurations and can be used as a single or double. Rebecca says that this type of stroller would be an excellent option for parents who are planning to purchase one stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem pick however it will last an extended period of time and comes with a great resale price, 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 models but it does have an elegant design and top-quality material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features a telescoping bar as well as easy to press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't flatten and a huge storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is a costly investment. Parents are looking for models that are simple to use. It should come with a range of features including the ability to fold the stroller compactly and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different types of users. Some models come with multiple storage compartments to allow families to divide up belongings for quick access, as well as organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phones, keys, and other essentials easily accessible.
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 second seat, convert it to a triple with an incline board, or change to a single-mode with the rear bench. This flexibility lets double strollers to last as long as is required.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were pleasantly surprised by the ease of use and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model accepts all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins or children of different ages. The telescoping handlebar as well as the simple-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver over the other double strollers we've tested.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features sleek design and a huge storage basket that can accommodate two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat plus an ordinary child seat. It can be used by a single child from age three. Its foam-filled tires are designed to last and not wear out.
The UPPAbaby folds in half and is easy to store and transport. It's also extremely light, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and re-close with an latch, and requires no tools for assembly. It was a top choice from our Lab experts for its durability and shopability as well as its affordability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets along with keys, wallets and phones of parents. They must also be able to move over different surfaces and maneuver in tight places. They often need to fit in the trunk of a vehicle, so they should be simple to fold and compact when not being used.
Double strollers come in many different styles to meet these needs. They can be tandem or side-byside, and they can have fixed or removable seats or even be outfitted with infant car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are designed for running, while others can be utilized at the beach or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are especially useful for families that need to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example, is designed to allow 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 such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be adapted for a single child through the use of bassinet or baby seat or a toddler's with a jump seat or standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be configured 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of sustainability and green 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 this double stroller with his 3 year old daughter and five-month-old son. He said it was easy to take the parts out and assemble them because they came in neatly-labeled boxes with video and instructions.
Another great aspect of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated by your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can help it make more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They are also heavy. However, double pram pushchair are sleeker and provide various options for customization. You will find one that can fit an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
Whether you're looking for a side-byside or in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets minimum safety standards and goes through regular inspections. You should also consider an adjustable suspension system that gives a smooth ride and doesn't cause bumps or jostling for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy can shield your baby from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The best canopy features windows that can be reversible or a transparent plastic peek-aboo that lets you observe your child without causing disturbance. Some canopies come with visors to block the direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is an important factor to consider. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are easier to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers with a single button to fold the chassis are easier to use.
When deciding which double stroller to buy take into consideration the age gap between your children and the kind of trip you're planning to take them on. For instance, if you're children are similar in age, you may want to consider an incline-to-low tandem stroller so that they can interact during outings. If your children are separated by an age gap that is large, you may choose a model that allows them to have 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 good attachment scores. This won't have as significant of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics, but it's an important consideration if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.