Ten Common Misconceptions About Double Infant Stroller That Aren t Always True
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller gives parents of multiple kids a comfortable way to get them around. The most effective models are easy to fold, carry and fit in a car trunk. They also provide various seating arrangements for children of various ages.
If your children are similar in age, you could find that a sit-and-stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid fighting between siblings over the best seat to use. We also recommend options that allow two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is important that your baby and toddler are both at ease in the stroller. Choose a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth road bumps. Also, choose one that has buckles that can be easily removed and fastened.
Choose a big UPF 50+ canopy to offer sun protection for both children. Footrests that can be adjusted allow your child to stand in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, such as the top-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
How many seats you choose in your stroller will depend on the weight and ages of the children who are riding in it. A side-byside baby stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at once which is ideal for twins or siblings of a similar age. However, it's generally wider than other types and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or in crowded areas.
On the other hand, a stand-and-sit stroller allows older siblings to stand while you push the baby in an infant car seat. It's not the best double buggy choice for infants, but it can be beneficial for older children who are able to walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another option. It has multiple seating options and can be used for years as a double or single. 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 pick however it will last an extended period of time and comes with a great resale price, 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 top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It also has foam-filled tires that will not wear out and a large storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents are usually looking for one that is simple to use. That means a broad range of features, from the ability to fold it compactly to adjusting the handlebar height for different users, should be readily available. Some models come with multiple storage compartments to allow families to divide up belongings for quick access, as well as organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep keys, phone and other necessities within reach.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family as time goes by. Evenflo Pivot Xpand double buggy from birth, for instance, is a budget-friendly stroller that includes a modular system. This allows you to add a second seat, transform the stroller into a triple with the addition of a board, or change it to a single mode by adding a bench at the rear. This flexibility can help a double stroller work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, some side-by-side models aren't able to turn at a whim, but 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 different ages. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes make it more flexible than other double strollers we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double on the other hand has a streamlined look 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 from age three. Its foam-filled tires are made to not flatten.
The UPPAbaby folds in half, making it easy to store and carry. It's also extremely light at just 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with an latch, and requires no tools to put together. It was a top choice from our Lab experts for its longevity and shopability as well as its affordability.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers should be able to accommodate diaper bags as well as water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for children and parents keys, wallets phones, and other items. They must also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight spaces. They usually have to fit into the trunk of a car, so they must be easy to fold and compact when not being used.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers are built in a wide range of styles. They can be side-by-side or tandem 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 made to fit a single infant or toddler or twins. Some are made for jogging while others can be used on beaches or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families who need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance is designed to permit parents to mix and match seat units, cot attachments and car seats so that the stroller can serve the family from birth through toddlerhood.
Other lightweight double buggy strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to one child with the use of a bassinet or baby seat or a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be configured in 30 different ways, making it suitable for twins, siblings or growing families.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives and its focus is on sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in a wide range of colors and its fabrics are made out of 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 said it was simple to unpack and assemble because the parts came in neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
The UPPAbaby also features a telescoping handlebar and brakes that operate with your thumb. Its swiveling front wheels will allow it to make precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being heavy, difficult to maneuver and heavy. However, the most recent models are sleeker and offer a variety of customization options. You can find one that is compatible with 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-byside 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 need to ensure that the suspension system offers a smooth ride for your children in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, make sure it's adjustable to accommodate parents and dads of various heights.
A canopy is another essential feature that can shield your babies from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The most effective canopies come with the option of a reversible flap, or a transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows to allow you to monitor your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies have the ability to shade direct sunlight.
Another important metric to consider is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact twin Strollers for Newborns are easier to put in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Also, strollers that have one hand-release button that folds the chassis are much more convenient to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, bear in mind how far your children are and what type of outings you are planning to take them on. If your children are close in age, you can opt for a tandem high/low stroller in order to allow them to interact during outings. If your children are separated due to a large age gap, you may choose one that gives them more privacy.
If you're planning to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, choose one with a high attachment score and is compatible with top-rated brands. This will not have as big an impact on the overall rating as other indicators but it is still important if you plan to utilize car seat adapters.