Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient way for parents to transport multiple children. The best models are reasonably simple to fold and transport and can easily fit inside a trunk of a car, and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
Parents with children close in age may find a side-by-side or sit-and stand style is best to prevent sibling rivalries about who is allowed to ride in which car seat. We also like options that allow two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable and safe for your toddler and baby. Select one with cushioned seats, a large base and swiveling front wheels to smooth out bumps on the road, and buckles that are simple to fasten and unfasten.
You can also look for an ample, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection and ample coverage for both children. Adjustable footrests allow your child to sit in the rear seat if they're tired. Some double strollers give this feature for both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the best seller.
The number of seats you select in your stroller is contingent on the weights and ages of the kids who are riding in it. For instance, a side by side stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at the same time which is perfect for twins or siblings close in age. However, it's typically wider than other types and can be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or in areas with a lot of people.
On the other hand, a sit-and-stand stroller allows older siblings to stand while you push your younger child in the infant car seat. It's not the best option for infants, but it can be suitable once your kiddos are around three years old and are able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller which offers multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a single or double for a number of years. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is a good option for parents who only want to purchase one stroller, but plan to use it with two kids. "It's more expensive than our top tandem pick but 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 other models however it has an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and it has a telescoping handlebar as well as easy-to-press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't sag and a huge storage bin.
Easy to Use
A double stroller is not an investment that is cheap, and parents often seek one that is simple to use. This means a variety of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be readily available. Some models have multiple storage compartments that enable families to keep their belongings separate to make them easy to access. They also have parent consoles and organizer bags that keep keys, phones and other essentials on hand.
A stroller can be adjusted to the needs of your family over the years as well. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example is a budget-friendly stroller with a modular system. This allows you to add another seat, convert the stroller into a triple by adding a board, or switch it into a single mode by adding a rear bench. This allows double strollers to last for as long as it is needed.
In terms of maneuverability, some side-by-side models struggle to turn on a dime however, many of our Lab testers loved the simplicity 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 age. The telescoping handles as well as the easy-to-use brakes make it more mobile than other double strollers we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, on the other hand has a sleek design and a large basket that can fit two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's seat. It can also be used by a single child up to the age of three and offers a smooth ride thanks to its tires filled with foam that are made to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds up in half and is easy to store and transport. It's also super lightweight and weighs only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close using the latch and doesn't require tools for assembly. It was a top pick by our Lab experts for its durability and shopability as well as its affordability.
Ease of double buggy travel system need to be able to hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets along with keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able to glide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. They often need to be able to fit in the trunk of a car, so they should be easy to fold up and compact when not in use.
Double strollers are available in many different styles to meet these needs. They can be tandem or side-by-side with fixed or removable seats, or with an infant car seats and a rideboard. They can be made to fit one toddler or infant or twins. Some are made for running while others are used on beaches or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are particularly beneficial for families who need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example allows parents to mix and combine seats units, cots and car seats to make the stroller fit all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
single double stroller as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate a single child through the use of bassinets or a baby seat or a toddler's an elevated seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be set up in a variety of ways. It's great for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives and it is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes with a wide range of colors, and its materials are made from recycled water bottles. Our test subject Raul used this double stroller with his three-year old daughter and 5-month-old son. Raul says it was simple to disassemble and unpack because the components were neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
Another excellent characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated using only your thumb. The swiveling wheels at the front can help it make more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers have received a bad rap for being bulky and difficult to maneuver, the new generation of models are sleek and come with a range of options for customization. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, be sure it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets minimum safety standards and undergoes regular inspections. You'll want to ensure that the suspension system gives an easy ride for your children when they are in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar make sure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy is a crucial feature that can shield your children from the harsh sun or inclement weather. The best canopies have the option of a reversible flap, or a clear plastic peek-a-boo window that allows you to watch your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies also come with visors that block direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is an important aspect to think about. Compact strollers are easier to store in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Strollers with a single button to fold the chassis are simpler to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, bear in mind how far apart your children are and what kind of excursions you're planning to take them on. If your children are similar in age, you can opt for a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to interact during outings. On the other the other hand, if you have a significant age gap it is possible to choose a side-byside model that offers 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 much of an impact on the overall rating as other indicators but is still crucial if you intend to use car seat adapters.