Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great way for parents to transport multiple children. The best models are simple to fold and transport, fit well in the trunk of a car and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of different age groups.
Parents with children close in age may find that a side by side or sit-and-stand style works best to avoid sibling squabbles over who gets to ride in which car seat. We also recommend options that allow two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for your toddler and baby. Select a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth out bumps on the road. Also, select one that has buckles that can be easily removed and fastened.
Choose a big, UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children and their parents. Adjustable footrests allow your child to sit in the back seat when they're tired. Some double strollers offer this option for both children, including the Safety 1st model that is the best seller.
The number of seats you can have in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children using it. For example, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both kids simultaneously, so it's perfect for twins or siblings close in age. However, double stroller sale 's generally wider than other models and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces or in areas with a lot of people.
On the other hand, a sit-and stand stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push the younger one in an infant car seat. It's not the best option for infants, but it can be useful for older children who can 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 that this type of stroller would be an ideal choice for parents who are planning to buy one stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem model but it'll last for an extended period of time and comes with the best resale value she adds.
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 other options however it has a sleek design and high-quality material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and comes with a telescoping handlebar as well as easy-to-press brakes. It has foam-filled wheels that won't sag and a huge storage bin.
Easy to Use
A double stroller is not an inexpensive investment, which is why parents are often looking for a model that's easy to use. It should come with a range of features like the capability to fold the stroller into a compact size and adjust the handlebar height to accommodate different types of users. Some models have multiple storage compartments to allow families to organize their belongings for easy access. They also come with parent consoles and organizer bags that store keys, phones and other essentials on the ready.
A stroller should be able to adapt to your family's needs over the years, too. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance, is a budget-friendly stroller with an adjustable system. It lets you 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 rear bench. This flexibility allows a double stroller to last for as long as it is needed.
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 various ages. Its telescoping handlebar and simple-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers we tried.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, however, is sleek and stylish. It also comes with a large basket that can hold two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's seat. It can be used by a single child up to age three. Its foam-filled tires are made to not flatten.
The UPPAbaby folds in half and is simple to store and transport. It's also super lightweight at just 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with a latch, and requires no tools for assembling. It was a top pick by our Lab experts for its longevity and shopability as well as its affordability.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets, as well as the keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able move over different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. They usually have to fit into the trunk of a vehicle, so they must be easy to fold and compact when not in use.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers can be built in a wide range of styles. They can be side-by-side or tandem with fixed or removable seats, or with an infant car seats and a rideboard. They can also be designed to fit a single newborn or toddler or twins. Some are designed to be used for jogging while others can be used on beaches or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are 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 their seat units, cot attachments, and car seats, so that the stroller can be used by the family from birth through toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers, like 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 with the option of a jumping seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby is available in a variety of colors, and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers used the double stroller for testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. He said it was simple to take apart and assemble since the components were neatly labeled boxes with instructions and a video code.
The UPPAbaby also has a telescoping handlebar, and brakes that operate with your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its front can assist in making more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized as being cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. They are also heavy. However, the latest models are sleeker and provide many options for customization. You may even find one that fits your infant car seat which makes it 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 an in-line double stroller, be sure it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets minimum safety standards and undergoes regular inspections. You'll need to ensure that the suspension system provides a smooth ride for your children in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can shield your baby from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The best canopy features the option of a reversible flap, or a transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows to let you monitor your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies also come with the ability to shade direct sunlight.
Another important metric to consider is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are simpler to store in the trunk of your car and take up less room. Also, strollers that have a single hand-release button that folds the chassis are much more convenient to use.
When choosing a double stroller to buy be aware of the age gap between your children and the type of trip you're planning to take the strollers on. If your children are close in age you may choose a tandem high/low stroller in order to allow them to interact when outings. If your children are separated by an age gap that is large, you may choose one which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that is compatible with the top-rated car seat brands and has high attachment scores. This won't have as significant of an impact on your overall rating as the other factors, but it's an important consideration if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.