Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is an ideal way for parents to transport multiple children. The most effective models are easy to fold, carry and fit into a trunk of a car. They also offer flexible seating arrangements for kids of different ages.
If your children are close in age, you could decide that a sit-and stand or side-byside style is the best method to avoid fighting between siblings over which seat to choose. We also recommend options that accept two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
small double buggy is key for both your baby and toddler. Choose a stroller with padded seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth out road bumps. Also, pick one with buckles that can be easily removed and fastened.
You could also consider a large UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and ample coverage for both kids. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests that let your child stand up in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, like the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
How many seats you choose in your stroller will depend on the weight and ages of the children who are that are using it. A side-by-side baby stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at a time, making it ideal for twins or siblings of a similar age. However, it's generally wider than other models and can be challenging to maneuver through narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
A sit-and-stand pram allows older siblings to stand while you push a smaller child in an infant car-seat. It's not the best option for infants, but it can be beneficial for older children who are able to walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is a different option. It comes with a variety of seating configurations and can be used as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller would be an ideal choice for parents who plan to buy one 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's not as compact as other models however it has an elegant design and premium material. small double stroller is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It also comes with tires filled with foam that won't go flat and large storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller can be an expensive investment. Parents are therefore seeking models that are simple to use. This means a variety of features, ranging from the ability to fold it compactly to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be readily available. 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 to keep phones, keys, and other essentials at the ready.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing needs of your family as time goes by. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example is a budget-friendly stroller with an adjustable system. It allows you to add a second seat, transform the stroller into a triple using an additional board, or convert it to a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This flexibility can make a double stroller work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver. However, our Lab testers were impressed with 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 different age groups. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes make it more flexible than other double strollers we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double however, has a streamlined look and a large basket that can hold two toddler car seats or an infant car seat with a standard child's seat. It can also be used by one child up to three years old and provides a smooth ride due to its foam-filled tires that are made to not go flat.
In addition, the UPPAbaby is super light at just 18 pounds and folds down in half to make a slim and sleek box that's easy to transport and put away. It's also easy to open and close using an latch, and needs no tools for assembling. Our Lab experts picked it as the top pick for its value, affordability and shopability, as well as its longevity.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets, as well as the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They also need to be able to glide across various surfaces and maneuver into tight spaces. When not in use, they often have to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
Double strollers are available in a variety of styles to meet your needs. They can be side-by-side or tandem, with fixed or removable seats or a baby car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are designed for running, while others can be used at the beach or on hiking trails.
Modular designs can be especially beneficial for families who need to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and match 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 baby seats or a bassinet, or a toddler by using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The versatile UPPAbaby can be configured in 30 different ways, making it ideal for twins or siblings, or even an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in many colors, and its materials are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul utilized the double stroller with his three year old daughter and five-month old son. He said it was easy to unpack the parts and assemble them because they were packaged neatly with instructions and video codes.
Another great characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar as well as brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated using only your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its front can aid in making more precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
While double strollers have a bad reputation as cumbersome and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of models are sleek and offer many customization options. You might even find one that will fit your car seat for infants, making it even more convenient to go out and about with two children in the stroller.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or in-line double stroller, be sure it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You'll want to make sure that the suspension system offers an easy ride for your children who are in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, be sure it's adjustable to accommodate the different heights.
A canopy is an additional feature that protects your children from harsh sunlight or the harsh weather. The most effective canopies have an reversible window or clear plastic peek-aboo to let you observe your child without causing any disturbance. Some canopies have visors that block direct sunlight.
Another important metric to consider is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are easier to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers that have a single hand-release button that folds the chassis much more convenient to use.
When choosing a double stroller be aware of the age gap between your children and the kind of excursion you plan to take with them. If your children are close in age you may choose a tandem high/low stroller to let them interact on outings. On the other side, if your kids have a large age gap then you may want to consider an option that is side-by-side, which gives them more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller for baby car seats, select one with a good attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as significant impact on your overall rating as the other metrics, but it's an important aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using adapters for car seats.