Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great option for parents to take multiple children. The most effective models are easy to fold, carry and place into the trunk of a car. They also have flexible seating arrangements for kids of various ages.
Parents of children who are close to age may find that a side by side or sit-and-stand design is the best to avoid sibling squabbles about who is allowed to ride in which car seat. We also like the options that allow two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is important that your baby and toddler are both at ease in the stroller. Choose a stroller with padded seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth out road bumps. Also, choose one that has buckles that are easily fastened and unfastened.
Find a large UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children and their parents. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests that let your child sit up in the back of the seat when they get tired. Some double strollers provide this option for both children, including the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
The number of seats you select in your stroller depends on the ages and weights of the children who are riding in it. For example, a side-by-side stroller lets you keep an eye on both children at the same time, so it's perfect for twins or siblings close in age. It's wider than other configurations and isn't easy to maneuver through crowded or narrow areas.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand while you push a smaller child in an infant car-seat. It's not the best choice for infants, but it can be beneficial for older children that can walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is an additional option. It has multiple seating configurations and can be used for years as a double or single. Rebecca says that this type of stroller is an ideal choice for parents who intend to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem pick, but it will last a long time, has a 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 the other strollers we've tried however, it comes with sleek, modern designs and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar as well as easy to press brakes. It also comes with foam-filled tires that aren't flat, and an ample storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller can be a costly investment. Parents are therefore seeking models that are simple to use. That means a wide range of features, from the ability to fold it compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be available. Some models have multiple storage compartments to allow families to split up belongings for quick access, as well as organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep keys, phone and other items in reach.
A stroller is supposed to be able to adjust to the changing needs of your family over the years, too. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example is an affordable stroller that comes with a modular system. It lets you add a second seat, transform the stroller into a triple by adding a board, or switch it into a single mode by adding a bench at the rear. This flexibility can make double strollers work for the time you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, a lot of side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of using and maneuverability of 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 ages. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes make it more flexible than other double strollers we evaluated.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double however, is sleek and stylish. It also comes with an ample basket that can hold two toddler car seats or an infant car seat with a regular child's car seat. It can also be used by any single child until three years old and offers a smooth ride thanks to its tires filled with foam that are made to not go flat.
Additionally it's lightweight at only 18 pounds and folds in half for a sleek package that is easy to transport and store. It's also easy to close and open using an latch, and needs no tools to assemble. It was a top pick by our Lab experts due to its durability and versatility, as well as its price.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers should be able hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets and the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They should also be able to glide across various surfaces and maneuver into tight spaces. When not in use they usually have to be tucked into the trunk of a car.
To meet these needs Double strollers are built in a wide range of styles. They can be side-by-side or tandem and can also have seats that are removable or fixed or come with infant car seats as well as a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are made for jogging while others can be utilized at the beach or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs can be especially helpful for families that need to grow into their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example is designed to allow parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments, and car seats so that the stroller can serve the family from birth until toddlerhood.
Other double stroller s that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be converted to one child with the use of the bassinet or baby seat or for a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's perfect for twins, siblings or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in many colors, and its materials are made out of recycled water bottles. Our test subject Raul used this double stroller with his three year old daughter and five-month old son. He said it was simple to unpack and assemble because the components came in neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
The UPPAbaby also comes with an adjustable handlebar that can be telescoping, as well as brakes that are operated by your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its front can assist in making tighter turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are a bit of a bad reputation as cumbersome and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of strollers are sleek and offer many options for customization. You can find one that fits an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side, or in line, be sure it is JPMA-certified to ensure it is safe to use. It also has to pass regular inspections. You'll need to ensure that the suspension system provides a smooth ride for your children who are in the front seat. If your stroller comes with an adjustable handlebar, make sure it is 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 windows that peek-a-boo to allow you to monitor your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies have visors that block the direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is an important aspect to take into consideration. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are more convenient to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers that have only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis much easier to use.
When deciding on a double stroller to buy take into consideration the age gap between your children as well as the type of excursion you plan to take the strollers on. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to interact on outings. If your children are separated by a large age gap, you may choose a model which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller for baby car seats, choose a model with a high attachment score and is compatible with top-rated brands. double pram pushchair won't have as significant impact on your overall rating as the other factors however it's a crucial aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using car seat adapters.