Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are simple to fold, carry and place into the trunk of a car. They also provide different seating arrangements for children of varying 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 prevent sibling rivalries over who gets to ride in which car seat. We also recommend options that accept two infant car seats like the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for your toddler and baby. Select a stroller with comfortable seats and swiveling tires at the front to smooth out road bumps. Also, select one that has buckles that are easily fastened and unfastened.
You could also consider an ample UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and ample coverage for both children. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests that let your child stand up in the back seat when they get tired. Some double strollers, like the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats in the stroller will be contingent on the weight and age of the children who will be using it. For example, a side-by-side stroller lets you keep an eye on both children simultaneously, so it's perfect for twins or siblings close in age. However, it's generally wider than other models and may be difficult to navigate in narrow spaces or in areas with a lot of people.
double pushchair with car seat -and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand up while you push a smaller child in a car seat for infants. It's not the best choice for babies, but it is useful for older children who can walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is an additional option. It offers multiple seating options and can be used for years as a single or double. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a good choice for parents who want to purchase a single stroller but plan to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection, but it will last a long time, has a great return value, 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 tested, but it has an elegant, modern design and high-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar and brakes that are easy to press. It also comes with tires filled with foam that aren't flat, and a large storage basket.
Simple to Use
A double stroller can be an expensive investment. Parents are therefore seeking models that are easy to use. It should come with a range of features like the possibility of folding the stroller in a compact manner and adjust the handlebar height to suit different users. Some models come with more than one storage space to allow families to divide up belongings for quick access, and organizer bags or consoles for parents to keep phone, keys and other items in reach.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. For instance, a cost-effective option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that allows you to add a second seat, convert it to a triple with a rideboard, or switch to a single-mode with the rear bench. This flexibility will let double strollers work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, some side-byside models aren't able to turn at a whim however, many 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 different ages. The telescoping handlebar as well as the simple-to-use brakes make it more maneuverable than other double strollers that we test.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with a streamlined design and a large storage basket that can hold two toddler car seats or one infant car seat plus a regular child seat. It can also be used by one child up to the age of three and provides a smooth ride due to its tires filled with foam that are not designed to run flat.
Furthermore it's light at just 18 pounds, and folds in half for a sleek package that is easy to carry and put away. It's also simple to close and open using the latch, and requires no tools to put together. It was a top pick among our Lab experts for its durability, shopability, and affordability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to accommodate diaper bags as well as water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for the kids, as well as parents' wallets, keys phones and other things. They should also be able slide across different surfaces and maneuver through tight spots. They usually have to be able to fit in the trunk of a vehicle, so they should be easy to fold and compact when not in use.
Double strollers come in many different styles to meet your needs. They can be tandem or side-byside and can also have seats that can be removed or fixed or even be outfitted with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate a single newborn or toddler, or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others can be used for hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs can be especially useful for families that have to grow into their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and combine seats units, 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 the bassinet or baby seat or a toddler using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's great for twins, siblings or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives, and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in a variety of colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers used this double stroller during testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. He found it easy to take the parts out and assemble them since they were packaged neatly with video and instructions.
Another excellent characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar as well as brakes that are one-handed and can be operated with only your thumb. The swiveling wheels at the front can assist in making tighter turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized for being cumbersome, difficult to maneuver and heavy. However, the latest models are sleeker and provide many options for customization. You might even find one that is compatible with the car seat of your infant, making it even more convenient to go out and about with two kids in the stroller.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side, or in line, ensure it is JPMA-certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. It will also undergo regular inspections. You'll also want to look for suspension systems that provide a smooth ride and doesn't cause bumps or jostling for your children in the front seat. If your stroller has an adjustable handlebar, make sure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy is another essential feature that protects your children from the harsh sun or the harsh weather. The best canopies have a reversible flap or transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo to allow you to monitor your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies come with visors to block the direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is a second important aspect to think about. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are easier to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers that have one hand-release button that folds the chassis are much easier to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind how far your children are in age and what kind of excursions you're planning to take them on. If your children are close in age you may choose a tandem stroller that is high/low to allow them to be together during outings. On the other side, if your kids have a large age gap it is possible to choose a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that works with top-rated car seats and has a high attachment score. This won't have as much of an impact on the overall rating as other metrics but is still crucial if you intend to use adapters for car seats.