Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is an ideal method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are simple to fold, carry and place into a trunk of a car. They also offer different seating arrangements for children of different ages.
Parents of children who are close to age may find that a side-by-side or sit-and stand style is best to avoid sibling fights over who rides in which car seat. We also like options which accept two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable and safe for both your toddler and baby. Choose a stroller with comfortable seats and swiveling tires on the front to smooth road bumps. Also, choose one with buckles that can be easily removed and fastened.
You can also search for a generous, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection and ample coverage for both kids. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests that let your child stand up in the back of the seat when they get tired. Some double strollers provide this feature to both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
The number of seats you select in your stroller is contingent on the ages and weights of the kids that are using it. For instance, a side by side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both children simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings who are close in age. However, it's generally wider than other types and may be difficult to navigate in narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand up while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not a good choice for babies however, it could be a good fit when your children are about three years old and able to walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is an additional alternative. It offers multiple seating options and can be used as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller would be an ideal choice for parents who intend to buy one stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem pick but it will last for 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 the other options we tested however it does have a sleek, modern design and high-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and comes with an adjustable handlebar that can be telescopically adjusted and easy-to-press brakes. It also has foam-filled tires that will not wear out and an ample storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is not an investment that is cheap, and parents are usually looking for an option that is easy to use. It should come with a range of features including the capability to fold the stroller in a compact manner and to adjust the handlebar's height to accommodate different users. Some models have multiple storage compartments that allow families to organize their belongings to make it easier to access. They also have parent consoles and organizer bags that keep phones, keys and other necessities on hand.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance, is a budget-friendly stroller that includes a modular system. It allows you to add another seat, convert the stroller into a triple with the addition of a board, or change it into a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This flexibility can make double strollers work for as long as you want it to.
In terms of maneuverability, some models struggle to turn on a dime however, the majority of our Lab testers appreciated the ease-of-use and maneuverability of the inline Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model accepts all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins and kids of varying ages. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than 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 fit two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat in addition to a regular child seat. It can also be used by any single child until the age of three and provides a smooth ride due to its foam-filled tires that are made to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds down in half and is easy to store and carry. It's also very light, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and close with the latch and doesn't require tools for assembly. It was a top pick from our Lab experts due to its durability and shopability as well as its affordability.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets along with the keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able to slide over various surfaces and maneuver into tight spaces. They are often required to fit into the trunk of a car, therefore they must be easy to fold and compact when not in use.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers are built in a wide range of designs. They can be tandem or side-by-side and can also have fixed or removable seats or even be outfitted with infant car seats as well as a riding board. They can also be designed to fit a single toddler or newborn, or twins. Some are suited for running, while others can be used for hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs can be especially helpful for families that need to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance, is designed to allow parents to mix and match seat units, cot attachments and car seats so that the stroller can be used by the entire family from birth to 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 bassinets or a baby seat or a toddler's a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be set up in 30 different ways, making it suitable 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 utilized this double stroller while testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. He says it was easy to disassemble and unpack because the parts came in neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
The UPPAbaby also features an adjustable handlebar that can be telescoping, as well as brakes that are operated by your thumb. double pram pushchair pushchairsandprams at the front can aid in making more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are a bit of 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 is compatible with your infant car seat which makes it easier to get out and about with two kids in tow.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in a line, make sure it is JPMA-certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It will also undergo regular inspections. You'll want to make sure that the suspension system gives an easy ride for your children in the front seat. And if your stroller has an armrest, make sure it's adjustable to accommodate Moms and Dads of different heights.
A canopy can shield your baby from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The most effective canopies have an reversible window or clear plastic peek-aboo to let you watch your child's progress without disturbing them. Some canopies have visors that block direct sunlight.
Another important metric to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are simpler to put in the trunk of your car and take up less room. Strollers with only one button to fold the chassis are easier to use.
When choosing a double stroller, consider the age difference between your children as well as the type of trip you intend to take them on. For instance, if you're children are in the same age range and you want to choose a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can get to know each other on outings. If your children are separated by an age gap that is large you can select one which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you're going to be using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that works with top-rated car seat brands and has high attachment scores. This will not have as significant an impact on the overall rating as other indicators however it is important if you plan to use adapters for car seats.