Ten Double Infant Stroller Myths That Aren t Always True
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are simple to fold, carry and store into the trunk of a car. They also offer various seating arrangements for children of various ages.
Parents of children who are close to age may find that a side-by-side or sit-and stand style is best to prevent sibling rivalries about who is allowed to ride in which car seat. We also recommend options that accept two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby V2 Double.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby and toddler are comfortable in the lightweight twin stroller. Pick one with cushioned seats, a large base and swiveling front wheels to smooth out bumps in the road, and buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten.
Look for a large UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children. Footrests that can be adjusted allow your child to stand up in the rear seat if they're tired. Some double strollers, such as the best-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats in your stroller will be determined by 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 close in age. However, it's typically wider than other configurations and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
On the other hand, a sit-and-stand stroller allows older siblings to stand while you push the baby in the infant car seat. It's not the best choice for newborns but can be beneficial for older children who are able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a single or double for several years. Rebecca says that this kind of stroller is a great option for parents who wish to purchase one stroller, but plan to use it with two kids. It's more expensive than the top tandem choice however it will last a long time and has an excellent resale value, 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 double stroller for Travel as some other options, but it features an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It has foam-filled wheels that won't flatten and a large storage bin.
Easy to Use
A double stroller is not an inexpensive investment, which is why parents often seek one that is simple to use. That means a broad range of features, ranging from the ability to fold it up compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be readily available. Certain models have multiple storage compartments that allow families to separate belongings for easy access. They also have parent consoles and organizer bags that keep keys, phones and other essentials on hand.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the needs of your family throughout the years also. For example, a budget-friendly option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that lets you add another seat, convert it to a triple with the rideboard, or change to a single-mode with a rear bench. This flexibility can help a double stroller work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but our Lab testers were impressed with the ease of using and maneuverability of Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with our top-rated car seats for infants and can be used by twins or children of different age groups. The telescoping handlebar as well as the simple-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers that we tried.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, however, has a sleek design and a large basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or an infant car seat with a regular child's seat. It can be used by a single child as young as three years old. Its tires that are filled with foam are designed to last and not wear out.
The UPPAbaby folds up in half, making it simple to store and transport. It's also super lightweight double pushchair, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and re-close with the latch and doesn't require tools to put together. It was a top pick from our Lab experts due to its durability and shopability as well as its affordability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags jackets, water bottles, and other items, as well as keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able to slide over different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. When not in use they are often required to fit into the trunk of a car.
To meet these requirements, double strollers can be constructed in a variety of designs. They can be side-byside or tandem with removable or fixed seats or equipped with infant car seat and a ridingboard. They can also be designed to accommodate a single toddler or newborn, or twins. Some are designed for jogging while others can be used on beaches or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are especially useful for families that have to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and combine seats, cots, and car seats to make the stroller suitable for all terrain double stroller the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 cheap double buggy, can be adapted for one child with the use of bassinet or baby seat or a toddler's a jump 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 an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives and it is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in various colors, and its 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 said it was easy to remove the components and put them together because they were neatly labeled boxes with video and instructions.
Another excellent feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar and one-handed brakes that can be operated by your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels allow it to make tight turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
While double strollers have a bad reputation as cumbersome and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of strollers are sleek and offer many customization options. You might even find one that is compatible with the car seat of your infant which makes it more convenient to go out and about with two children in the stroller.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it complies with the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. Also, you should choose an adjustable suspension system that gives a smooth ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jostling for the children in the front seat. If your stroller is equipped with a handlebar, make sure it's adjustable to fit Moms and Dads of different heights.
A canopy can protect your child from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The best canopies have a reversible flap or transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo to let you monitor your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies have visors to block direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is another important aspect to think about. Strollers that are compact when folded are easier to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers that have only one button to fold the chassis are simpler to use.
When deciding which double stroller be aware of the age gap between your children and the kind of excursion you plan to take them on. For example, if your children are similar in age, you may want to choose a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can interact during outings. On the other hand, if your children have a significant age difference then you may want to consider a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that integrates with the top-rated car seat brands and has a high attachment score. This will not have as big an impact on the overall rating as other factors but is still crucial if you intend to use adapters for car seats.