3 Ways The Double Infant Stroller Can Influence Your Life
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are lightweight and easy to fold and carry and fit nicely inside a trunk of a car, and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
Parents with children of a similar age may find that a side by side or sit-and-stand style works best to avoid sibling fights over who rides in which car seat. We also like options that allow two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double.
Comfort
It is essential that your toddler and baby are comfortable in the stroller. Choose one that has cushioned seats, a large base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth bumps on the road, and buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten.
Choose a big, UPF 50+ canopy to offer sun protection for both children. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests that let your child sit up in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, like the top-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you can have in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children using it. A side-by-side baby stroller lets you to watch two children at the same time which is ideal for twins or siblings of similar age. It's larger than other models, and can be difficult to maneuver in crowded or narrow spaces.
On the other hand, a sit-and-stand stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push your younger child in an infant car seat. It's not a good choice for babies, but it can be suitable once your kiddos are around three years old and able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller, that has multiple seating options and can be used as a double or a single for a number of years. Rebecca says this kind of stroller would be an excellent option for parents who intend to buy one stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem choice but it will last for a long time, offers a high resale value and is incredibly 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 tested however it does have a sleek, modern design and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and it has a telescoping handlebar and brakes that are easy to press. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't flatten and a huge storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is not a cheap investment, so parents often seek an option that is easy to use. That means a broad range of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar for different users, should be readily available. Certain models have multiple storage compartments that enable families to keep their belongings separate to make them easy to access. They also have parent consoles and organizer bags that store phones, keys, and other essentials at hand.
A stroller can be adjusted to the changing needs of your family over the years, too. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example is a budget-friendly stroller that includes an adjustable system. It allows you to add another seat, convert the stroller into a triple by adding the addition of a board, or change to a single-mode by adding a bench at the rear. This flexibility allows double strollers to last for as long as you need it.
In terms of maneuverability, many 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 various ages. Its telescoping handlebar and simple-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver than other double strollers we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double it's 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 car seat. It can be used by one child from age three. Its foam-filled tires are made to not flatten.
Additionally it's lightweight at only 18 pounds and folds in half to create a sleek and compact package that's easy to transport and put away. double buggy with car seat is also easy to open and close with the latch, and requires no tools for assembling. Our Lab experts picked it as the best choice for its value, affordability, shopability and longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets and keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight places. They usually have to be able to fit in the trunk of a car, so they must be easy to fold up and compact when not when not in use.
To meet these requirements Double strollers are constructed in a variety of styles. They can be side-by-side or tandem with removable or fixed seats or a baby car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are designed to be used for jogging while others can be utilized at the beach or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families who need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example is designed to permit parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments, and car seats so that the stroller can serve the entire family from birth to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be converted to one child with the use of baby seats or a bassinet or a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be configured 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
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 the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. In our testing, our test participant Raul used this double stroller with his three year old daughter and five-month-old son. Raul says it was simple to disassemble and unpack because the parts came in neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code included.
The UPPAbaby also comes with a telescoping handlebar, and brakes controlled by your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can help it make more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized for being cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. They're also heavy. However, the newest models are sleeker and offer various options for customization. You will find one that can fit an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in line, be sure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It will also undergo regular inspections. You'll also want to look for suspension systems that provide a smooth ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jolting for your little ones in the front seat. If your stroller comes with an adjustable handlebar, make sure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy is an additional feature that protects your babies from harsh sunlight or inclement 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 disturbing them. Certain canopies come with visors that block direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is an important aspect to take into consideration. Strollers that are compact when folded are more convenient to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers with only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis more user-friendly.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind how far your children are in age and what kind of excursions you are planning to take them on. If your children are close in age, you could opt for a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to be together on outings. If your children are separated due to a large age gap, you may choose a model that allows them to have more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that is compatible with the top-rated car seat brands and has a high attachment score. This won't have as significant of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics however it's a crucial factor to consider if you're planning on using car seat adapters.