Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller gives parents of multiple kids an easy way to move their children around. compact twin stroller are simple to fold, carry and place into the trunk of a car. They also have flexible seating arrangements for kids of various ages.
If your children are close in age, you could decide that a sit-and stand or side-by-side design is the best method to avoid fighting between siblings over the best seat to use. We also recommend options that accept two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby and toddler are both comfortable in the stroller. Choose a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels at the front to smooth road bumps. Also, choose one with buckles that can be easily removed and fastened.
Look for a large, UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children and their parents. Adjustable footrests allow your child to stand up in the rear seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, such as the top-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
How many seats you choose in your stroller depends on the weight and ages of the children who are riding in it. A side-byside baby stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at the same time it is ideal for twins or siblings of the same age. However, it's generally larger than other types and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand up while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not the best option for babies, but it is beneficial for older children that can walk longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller, which offers multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or a single for several years. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is a good option for parents who only want to buy one stroller but are planning to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection, but it will last 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 some other options, but it features a sleek design and high-quality material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features a telescoping bar 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 can be an expensive purchase. Parents are therefore looking for models that are simple to use. That means a wide range of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar for different users, should be readily available. Some models come with multiple storage compartments to allow families to split up belongings for quick access, as well as organizer bags or consoles for parents to keep phone, keys, and other essentials within reach.
A stroller is supposed to be able to adjust to the needs of your family throughout the years as well. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance is an affordable stroller that comes with an adjustable system. This allows you to add another seat, convert the stroller into a triple using a board, or switch it to a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This allows double strollers to last for as long as is required.
When it comes to maneuverability, some side-byside models aren't able to turn at a whim, but the majority of our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of use and maneuverability of the inline 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. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers that we test.
On the other side, the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features an elegant design and a huge storage basket that can hold two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat and an ordinary child's seat. It can be used by one child as young as three years old. Its tires that are filled with foam are designed to last and not wear out.
The UPPAbaby folds up in half, making it simple to store and transport. It's also super lightweight at just 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and close with a latch, and requires no tools for assembling. Our Lab experts picked it as the best choice for its affordability and long-term durability.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags and water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for children, as well as parents keys, wallets, phones and other belongings. They should also be able to move over different surfaces and maneuver through tight spots. When not in use they are often required to fit into the trunk of a car.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers can be built in a wide range of designs. They can be tandem or side-by-side with seats that can be removed or fixed or come with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to fit a single toddler or twins. Some are made for running, while others can be used on beaches or on trails for hiking.
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 combine seat units, cots, and car seats to make the stroller fit the entire family from infant to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate one child with the use of bassinet or baby seat or a toddler's with an elevated seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's great for twins, siblings, or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in many colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers, used the double stroller for testing with his five-month-old son as well as three-year-old daughter. Raul says it was simple to disassemble and unpack because the components came in neatly labeled boxes with instructions and a video code included.
The UPPAbaby also has a telescoping handlebar, and brakes that are operated by your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can aid in making more precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They're also heavy. However, the newest models are sleeker and offer a variety of customization options. You can find one that fits an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
If you're looking for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You'll want to ensure that the suspension system gives a smooth ride for your children in the front seat. And if your stroller has a handlebar, be sure it's adjustable to accommodate Moms and Dads of different heights.
A canopy can shield your baby from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The best canopy features a reversible window or a transparent plastic peek-aboo that lets you observe your child without disturbing them. Some canopies have visors that block the direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is a second important aspect to think about. Compact strollers are much easier to store in the trunk of your car and take up less room. Also, strollers with a single hand-release button that folds the chassis much easier to use.
When deciding which double stroller to buy take into consideration the age gap between your children and the type of trip you're planning to take the strollers on. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem high/low stroller to let them interact when outings. If your children are separated due to a large age gap, you may choose a model which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that is compatible with the top-rated car seat brands and has high attachment scores. This won't have as significant impact on your overall rating as other factors, but it's an important factor to consider if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.