Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is an ideal method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are reasonably simple to fold and transport, fit well inside a trunk of a car, and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of different ages.
Parents with children close in age may find a side-by-side or sit-and stand style is best to avoid sibling fights about who is allowed to ride in which car seat. We also recommend options that can accommodate two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double.
Comfort
It is important that your baby and toddler are both comfortable in the stroller. Choose one that has padding for the seats, a wide base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth bumps in the road, and buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten.
You could also consider an ample, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection and plenty of coverage for both kids. Footrests that can be adjusted allow your child to sit in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, like the top-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you select in your stroller will depend on the ages and weights of the kids who are riding in it. A side-byside baby stroller allows you to watch two children at a time which is ideal for twins or siblings of similar age. It's more spacious than other types of strollers and may be difficult to maneuver through crowded or narrow spaces.
On the other hand, a sit-and stand stroller allows older siblings to stand while you push the baby in the infant car seat. It's not ideal for newborns but it's a good fit when your kids are around three years old and able to walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another option. It has multiple seating options and can be used for years as a double or single. Rebecca says that this kind of stroller is an excellent option for parents who wish to buy one stroller but want to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection however, it will last a long time, has great 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 some of the other options we tested however it does have sleek, modern designs and high-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and it has a telescoping handlebar as well as brakes that are easy to press. It has foam-filled wheels that won't sag and a huge storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is an expensive purchase. Parents are therefore seeking models that are easy to use. It should have a variety of features like the ability to fold the stroller compactly and adjust the handlebar height to suit different users. Some models also have multiple storage compartments to allow families to split up belongings for quick access, and organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phones, keys, and other essentials in reach.
A stroller can be adjusted to the changing needs of your family throughout the years, too. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance is an affordable stroller that comes with an adjustable system. It allows you to add another seat, convert the stroller into a triple by adding the addition of a board, or change it into a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This flexibility allows a double stroller to last for as long as you need it.
In terms of maneuverability, some side-by-side models struggle to turn on a dime, but the majority of our Lab testers loved the simplicity and maneuverability of the inline Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with all of our top-rated car seats for infants and can be used by twins or children of various age groups. Its telescoping handlebar and simple-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver over the other double strollers that we tried.
On the other side the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double has a streamlined design and a large 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 three years old and is a smooth ride due to its tires filled with foam that are designed not to go flat.
Additionally to that, the UPPAbaby is lightweight at only 18 pounds, and folds in half to create a sleek and compact package that is easy to carry and put away. It's also easy to open and re-close with a latch and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts chose it as their top choice for its affordability and shopability, as well as its longevity.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers should be able to carry diaper bags as well as water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for kids as well as parents keys, wallets phones, and other items. They should also be able slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight places. When not in double push chair have to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers are constructed in a variety of styles. They can be tandem or side-by-side, with fixed or removable seats, or with an infant car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to fit a single toddler or newborn or twins. Some are suitable for jogging, while others can be used for hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families who need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and match seats, cots, and car seats to make the stroller suitable for all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers with modular designs like 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 UPPAbaby's versatility allows it to be set up in a variety of ways, making it ideal for twins or siblings, or even growing families.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives and it is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in various colors, and the fabrics are made from 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 simple to take apart and assemble since the components were neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code included.
The UPPAbaby also features a telescoping handlebar and brakes controlled by your thumb. The swiveling wheels at the front can assist in making more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They're also heavy. However, the latest models are sleeker and offer various options for customization. You may even find one that will fit your car seat for infants making it easier to get out and about with two kids in the stroller.
If you're looking for a side-byside or in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You should also look for suspension systems that provide smooth riding and doesn't create bumps or jolting 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 protect your child from the harsh sun and harsh weather. The most effective canopies have an reversible window or transparent plastic peek-aboo which lets you watch your child's progress without causing disturbance. Some canopies come with visors to block direct sunlight.
Another important metric to take into consideration is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are easier to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers with one button to fold the chassis are easier to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind the distance your children are in age and what kind of outings you are planning to take them on. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem stroller that is high/low to allow them to be together on outings. On the other the other hand, if you have a significant age difference it is possible to choose a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, select a model with a high attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. It won't have as much of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics however it's a crucial consideration if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.
