The Next Big Event In The Double Infant Stroller Industry
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are reasonably simple to fold and transport and fit nicely in the trunk of a car and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of different age groups.
If your children are close in age, you might find that a sit-and-stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid sibling fights over which seat to use. We also recommend options that allow two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby V2 Double.
Comfort
A comfortable stroller is key for both your toddler and baby. Choose a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels at the front to smooth out bumps on the road. Also, pick one that has buckles that can be easily fastened and unfastened.
Find a large UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection for both children and adults. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests, which let your child sit up in the back seat if they are tired. Some double strollers give this feature to both children, including the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
The number of seats you select in your stroller will depend on the weight and ages of the children riding in it. For instance, a side by side stroller lets you keep an eye on two children simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's generally wider than other models and may be difficult to navigate in narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand while you push a smaller child in the infant car seat. It's not the best option for newborns but can be useful for older children that can walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another alternative. It offers multiple seating options and can be used for years as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is an excellent option for parents who intend to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem model but it will last for a long time and has 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's not as compact as some other options but it does have an elegant design and premium material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and has an adjustable bar that can be telescoping and press brakes. It also comes with tires filled with foam that will not wear out and large storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is not a cheap investment, so parents are usually looking for one that is simple to use. That means a wide range of features, ranging from the ability to fold it compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar for different users, should be readily available. Some models come with more than one storage compartment to allow families to split items for quick access, and organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phone, keys, and other essentials in reach.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family as time goes by. For instance, a cost-effective model like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that lets you add a second seat, convert it to a triple with an incline board, or change to a single mode by using an additional bench in the rear. This flexibility can make double strollers work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were pleasantly surprised 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 or kids of varying ages. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver over the other double strollers we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double on the other hand has a sleek design and 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 as young as three years old. Its foam-filled tires are designed to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds in half and is easy to store and carry. It's also very light at just 18 pounds. It's also simple to close and open using the latch, and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts picked it as their top choice for its value, affordability, shopability and longevity.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers should be able to carry diaper bags and water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for the kids, as well as parents' wallets, keys phones and other things. They must also be able to slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight places. When not in use they are often required to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
To meet these needs Double strollers are constructed in a variety of designs. They can be tandem or side-byside with seats that can be removed or fixed, or be equipped with infant car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to accommodate a single toddler or newborn, or twins. Some are made for jogging while others can be used on beaches or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are especially useful for families that have to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example 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 adapted to one child using a bassinet or baby seat or a toddler using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The versatile UPPAbaby can be set up in 30 different ways, making it ideal for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is recognized for its green initiatives, and it is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in many colors, and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul utilized the double stroller with his three-year old daughter and 5-month-old son. He found it easy to unpack the parts and assemble them because they were neatly labeled boxes with video and instructions.
Another great characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar and one-handed brakes that can be operated by your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its 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 most recent models are sleeker and provide various options for customization. You may even find one that fits your car seat for infants which makes it easier to get out and about with two children in tow.
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 conforms to safety standards. It also has to pass regular inspections. You'll want to make sure that the suspension system gives an easy ride for your children who are in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, be sure it's adjustable to fit the different heights.
A canopy can protect your baby from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The most effective canopies come with the option of a reversible flap, or a clear plastic peek-a-boo window that allows you to watch your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies come with visors to block direct sunlight.
Another important metric to take into consideration is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. double running stroller that fold compactly when folded are easier to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers with only one button to fold the chassis are also more user-friendly.
When choosing a double stroller to buy be aware of the age gap between your children as well as the type of trip you intend to take with them. If your children are close in age you may choose a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to interact during outings. If your children are separated by the age gap You can choose a model that gives them more privacy.
If you're planning to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, choose one with a good attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as significant an impact on the overall rating as other indicators however it is important if you plan to utilize car seat adapters.