Ten Double Infant Strollers That Really Change Your Life
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller gives parents of multiple kids an easy way to move them around. The best models are simple to fold and transport, fit well inside a trunk of a car, and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of different age groups.
Parents of children who are close to age may find that a side-by-side or sit-and-stand style works best to prevent sibling rivalries over who gets to ride in which seat. We also recommend options that allow two infant car seats like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for your toddler and baby. Pick one with padded seats, a wide base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth bumps in the road and buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten.
You could also consider a large UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection and plenty of coverage for both children. Footrests that can be adjusted allow your child to stand up in the rear seat when they are tired. Some double strollers provide this option to both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
The number of seats you can have in your stroller will be determined by the weight and age of the children using it. A side-by-side baby stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at once, making it ideal for twins or siblings of the same age. It's wider than other configurations and may be difficult to maneuver in tight or narrow spaces.
On the other hand, a sit-and-stand stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push the younger one in the infant car seat. It's not a good choice for babies but it's suitable when your kids are around three years old and can walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller, which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or a single for several years. Rebecca says this type of stroller is an excellent choice for parents who want to purchase a single stroller but are planning to use it with two kids. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection but it will last a long time, has 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 some of the other strollers we've tried however, it comes with sleek, modern designs and high-quality materials. It's 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 won't go flat and an ample storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is not a cheap investment, so parents are often looking for a model that's easy to use. It should include a variety of features including the possibility of folding the stroller into a compact twin stroller size and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users. Some models have multiple storage compartments to allow families to organize their belongings to make them easy to access. They also have parent consoles and organizer bags to keep keys, phones and other essentials on hand.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing needs of your family as time goes by. For example, a budget-friendly option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand double infant Strollers includes an adjustable system that lets you add a second hand double buggy seat, convert it into a triple using the rideboard, or change to a single-mode with a rear bench. This flexibility will let a double stroller 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 with the ease of using and maneuverability of 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 easier to maneuver over the other double strollers we test.
On the other side the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with an elegant design and a large storage basket that can accommodate two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat and an ordinary child seat. It can be used by one child as young as three years old. The tires are filled with foam and made to not flatten.
Furthermore to that, the UPPAbaby is lightweight twin stroller at only 18 pounds and folds down in half for a sleek package that is easy to carry and put away. It's also simple to open and re-close with an latch, and requires no tools to put together. It was a top choice by our Lab experts due to its durability and versatility, as well as its price.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers should be able to accommodate diaper bags as well as water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for children as well as parents keys, wallets, phones and other belongings. They must also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight places. When not in use they usually have to be tucked into the trunk of a car.
Double strollers are available in many different styles to meet your needs. They can be tandem or side-by-side, with fixed or removable seats or equipped with infant car seats and a rideboard. They can be designed to accommodate a single toddler or twins. Some are designed for running, while others could be used for hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families that need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example, allows parents to mix and match seat units, cots, and car seats to let the stroller serve the entire family from newborn to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers, like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate a single child through the use of a baby seat or bassinet or a toddler's the option of a jumping seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's perfect for twins, siblings or 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 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 as well as three-year-old daughter. He says it was easy to unpack and assemble because the parts came in neatly labeled boxes, which had instructions and a video code.
Another amazing characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated using only your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can aid in making tighter turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
While double strollers have been criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver, the new generation of models are sleek and offer many options for customization. You can find one that fits an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
If you're shopping 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 also has to pass regular inspections. You'll also want to consider a suspension system that provides smooth riding and doesn't cause bumps or jostling for the little ones in the front seat. If your stroller has an adjustable handlebar, make sure it is adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy is a crucial feature that protects your children from the harsh sun or inclement weather. The best canopies have the option of a reversible flap, or a clear plastic peek-a-boo window to allow you to monitor your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies also come with the ability to shade direct sunlight.
Another important metric to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are easier to put in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Also, strollers that have only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis more user-friendly.
When choosing a double stroller to buy, consider the age difference between your children as well as the type of trip you're planning to take them on. If your children are close in age, you can opt for a tandem stroller that is high/low to let them interact when outings. If your children are separated by an age gap that is large You can choose one which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you're planning to use your stroller for baby car seats, select one with a high attachment score and is compatible with top-rated brands. It won't have as much of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics, but it's an important aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using adapters for car seats.