Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great way for parents to transport multiple children. The best strollers are lightweight and easy to fold and carry and fit nicely in the trunk of a car and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of various ages.
If your children are similar in age, you could decide that a sit-and stand or side-byside style is the best way to avoid fights between siblings over which seat to choose. We also like options which accept two infant car seat such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for both your baby and toddler. Choose a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels at the front to smooth out road bumps. Also, pick one with buckles that can be easily removed and fastened.
You can also search for an ample, UPF 50+ canopy, which provides sun protection as well as plenty of coverage for both kids. Adjustable footrests allow your child to stand in the rear seat if they are exhausted. Some double strollers provide this option to both children, including the Safety 1st model that is the best seller.
The number of seats in the stroller will be contingent 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 at the same time, so it's perfect for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's typically wider than other configurations and can be challenging to navigate in narrow spaces or in areas with a lot of people.
On the other hand, a stand-and-sit stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push your younger child in the infant car seat. It's not a good choice for babies however, it could be an ideal choice once your kiddos are around three years old and are able to walk longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller that has multiple seating options and can be used as a single or double for a long time. Rebecca says that this type of stroller would be an excellent option for parents who plan to buy one stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem choice but it will last for an extended period of time and comes with a great resale price, she adds.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It is not as compact as other options, but it features an elegant design and top-quality material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features an adjustable bar that can be telescoping and press brakes. It has foam-filled wheels that won't break and a large storage bin.
Simple to Use
A double stroller is an expensive purchase. Parents are looking for models that are simple to use. That means a broad range of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar for different users, should be readily available. Certain models have multiple storage compartments that allow families to organize their belongings to make it easier to access. They also come with parent consoles and organizer bags that store keys, phones, and other essentials at fingertips.
A stroller must be able adapt to the changing needs of your family as time goes by. For example, a budget-friendly model like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that lets you add a second seat, convert it into a triple by using a rideboard, or switch to a single-mode with the rear bench. This flexibility allows a double stroller to last for as long as is required.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were impressed with the ease of operation and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model accepts all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins or kids of varying ages. The telescoping handles and simple-to-use brakes make it more maneuverable than other double strollers we have tested.
On the other hand, the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with a streamlined design and a large storage basket that can hold two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat plus 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 which are designed not to go flat.
Additionally it's light at just 18 pounds and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that is easy to carry and to store. It's also simple to open and close using a latch and requires no tools for assembly. Our Lab experts selected it as their top choice for its value, affordability, shopability and longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers should be able to carry diaper bags, water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for kids as well as parents' wallets, keys, phones and other belongings. They should also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver through tight spots. They usually have to be able to fit in the trunk of a car, therefore they should be easy to fold up and compact when not being used.
Double strollers are available in a variety of styles to meet your needs. They can be tandem or side-by-side, and they can have seats that are removable or fixed or even be outfitted with infant car seats as well as a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate a single infant or toddler or twins. Some are designed to be used for jogging while others can be used on beaches or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families that need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and match seats, cots, and car seats to let the stroller suitable for the entire family from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be adapted for one child by the use of bassinets or a baby seat, or a toddler with a jump seat or standing board (sold separately). The versatile UPPAbaby can be configured in a variety of ways, making it suitable for twins or siblings, or even a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives and its focus is on sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in a wide range of colors and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers utilized this double stroller while testing with his five-month-old son as well as three-year-old daughter. Raul says it was simple to take apart and assemble since the components came in neatly labeled boxes, which had instructions and a video code included.
Another great feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar and one-handed brakes that can be operated using only your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels allow it to make tight turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers have a bad reputation as cumbersome and difficult to maneuver, the new generation of strollers are sleek and come with a range of options for customization. You might even find one that will fit your infant car seat, making it even more convenient to go out and about with two children in the stroller.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in line, be sure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it is safe to use. It will also go through regular inspections. You'll want to ensure that the suspension system provides an easy 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 is another essential feature that protects your babies from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The best canopies have the option of a reversible flap, or a transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows to allow you to monitor your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies also come with the ability to shade direct sunlight.
Another important factor to consider 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. Also, strollers that have a single hand-release button that folds the chassis are more user-friendly.
When deciding on a double stroller to buy be aware of the age gap between your children and the type of trip you're planning to take with them. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem stroller that is high/low to allow them to be together when outings. On the other hand, if your children have a significant age gap then you may want to consider a side-by-side model that gives them more privacy.
If you're going to be using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that integrates with the top-rated car seat brands and has a high attachment score. It won't have as much impact on your overall rating as the other metrics but it's an important consideration if you're planning on using car seat adapters.