7 Secrets About Double Infant Stroller That No One Will Tell You
Buying a double tandem pushchair Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are reasonably easy to fold and carry and fit nicely in the trunk of a car and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of various age groups.
Parents with children close in age may find that a side by side or sit-and-stand style works 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 Vista v2 Double Pram buggy.
Comfort
It is crucial that your baby and toddler are both at ease in the stroller. Choose one that has padded seats, a wide base and swiveling front wheels to smooth out bumps on the road, and buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten.
Look for a large UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection for both children and their parents. Footrests that can be adjusted allow your child to stand in the back seat when they are exhausted. Some double jogging stroller strollers, like the top-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you can put in your stroller depends on the weight and ages of the children riding in it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both kids simultaneously which is perfect for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's typically wider than other types and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand up while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not the ideal choice for infants, but it can be useful for older children who are able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller that has multiple seating options and can be used as a double buggy that converts to single or single for a number of years. Rebecca says this kind of stroller would be a good choice for parents who plan 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 an extended period of time and comes with 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 of the other strollers we've tested however it does have sleek, modern designs and high-quality materials. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It comes with foam-filled wheels that won't break and a huge storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents often seek a model that's easy to use. It should include a variety of features like the possibility of folding the stroller into a compact size and adjust the handlebar height to accommodate different users. Some models come with multiple storage compartments to allow families to split things up for easy access, and organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep keys, phone, and other essentials easily accessible.
A stroller is supposed to be able to adjust to your family's needs over the years also. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example is a budget-friendly stroller that includes an adjustable system. This allows you to add a seat, transform the stroller into a triple by adding a board, or switch to a single and double stroller-mode by adding a bench at the rear. This flexibility can make double strollers work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, some models struggle to turn at a whim however, the majority of our Lab testers loved the simplicity and maneuverability of the inline Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model can be used with all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins or children of various age. The telescoping handlebar as well as the simple-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver over the other double strollers that we test.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, however, has a streamlined look and a large basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's seat. It can be used by a single child from age three. Its foam-filled tires are made to not flatten.
The UPPAbaby folds in half and is easy to store and transport. It's also super lightweight double pushchair, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with an latch, and needs no tools to assemble. It was a top pick by our Lab experts for its longevity and shopability as well as its affordability.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers should be able hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets and the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They also need to be able to slide over different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. They usually have to fit in the trunk of a car, so they must be simple to fold and compact when not in use.
To meet these needs Double strollers can be constructed in a variety of styles. They can be side-byside or tandem, with fixed or removable seats or equipped with infant car seat and a ridingboard. They can be designed to fit one toddler or infant or twins. Some are suitable for jogging, while others can be used for hiking trails and at the beach.
Modular designs are especially useful for families that need to grow with 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 is able to serve the family from birth until toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to one child using baby seats or a bassinet, or a toddler by using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The versatile UPPAbaby can be set up in 30 different ways, making it suitable for twins or siblings, or even a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is recognized for its green initiatives, and its focus is on sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in a wide range of colors, and its materials are made from recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers utilized this double stroller while testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. He said it was easy to remove the components and assemble them because they were packaged neatly with video and instructions.
The UPPAbaby also has an adjustable handlebar that can be telescoping, as well as brakes that are operated by your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels can help it make tight turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being cumbersome, difficult to maneuver and bulky. However, the most recent models are sleeker and come with many options for customization. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side, or in a line, make sure it is JPMA-certified to ensure it is safe to use. It also has to pass regular inspections. You'll also want to consider an adjustable suspension system that gives a smooth ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jolting for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar, ensure it is adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can shield your child from the harsh sun and harsh weather. The best canopy features a reversible window or a clear plastic peek-aboo to let you observe your child without causing any disturbance. Some canopies have the ability to shade direct sunlight.
Another important factor to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are easier to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers that come with a single button to fold the chassis are easier to use.
When choosing a double stroller, bear in mind the distance your children are in age and what kind of outings you plan on taking them on. For example, if your kids are close in age and you want to consider a tandem high-low stroller so that they can be together during outings. On the other the other hand, if you have a significant age difference then you may want to consider a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, choose one with a high attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as significant impact on your overall rating as other metrics but it's an important aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using car seat adapters.