5 Lessons You Can Learn From Double Infant Stroller
Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is an ideal option for parents to take multiple children. The best strollers are lightweight and easy to fold and carry, fit well in a car trunk and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of various age groups.
Parents of children who are close to age may find that a side by side or sit-and-stand design is the best to avoid sibling squabbles over who rides in which car seat. We also recommend options that can accommodate two infant car seats, like the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby and toddler are both comfortable in the stroller. Choose a stroller with padded seats and swiveling wheels at the front to smooth out bumps on the road. Also, pick one with buckles that are easily removed and fastened.
You can also look for a large UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and plenty of coverage for both kids. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests, which allow your child to stand in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, such as the best-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you select in your stroller depends on the weights and ages of the children who are riding in it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both children at the same time which is perfect for twins or siblings who are close in age. It's more spacious than other types of strollers and may be difficult to maneuver through crowded or narrow areas.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand while you push a younger child in the infant car seat. It's not the ideal choice for babies, but it is beneficial for older children who can walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another option. It has multiple seating configurations and can be used as a double or single. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a great option for parents who wish to purchase a single stroller but are planning to use it with two children. It's more expensive than the top tandem model however it will last many years and has an excellent resale value, 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 tried, but it has a sleek, modern design and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and it has an adjustable handlebar that can be telescopically adjusted and brakes that are easy to press. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't sag and a large storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents are often looking for one that is simple to use. That means a wide range of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be available. Some models also have more than one storage compartment to allow families to divide items for quick access, and organizer bags or consoles for parents to keep phone, keys and other items in reach.
A stroller can be adjusted to the changing needs of your family over the years also. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance is a budget-friendly stroller that includes an adjustable system. This allows you to add a second seat, transform the stroller into a triple using the addition of a board, or change to a single-mode by adding a bench at the rear. This flexibility can make a double stroller work for the time you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability and maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but our Lab testers were pleasantly surprised by the ease of use and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins or kids of varying ages. Its telescoping handles and easy-to-use brakes allow it to be more maneuverable than other double strollers we have tested.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with an elegant design and a large storage basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or one infant car seat plus a regular child 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 very light at just 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with a latch, and requires no tools for assembling. Our Lab experts picked it as the top pick for its price, shopability and longevity.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers must 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 items. They also need to be able to glide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. When not in use, they often have to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
To meet these needs Double strollers are constructed in a variety of designs. They can be tandem or side-by-side 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 accommodate a single toddler or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others could 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, for example allows parents to mix and blend seats units, cots and car seats to let the stroller fit all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be modified to fit one child by the use of bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler with an elevated seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's great for twins, siblings or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives and it is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes with a wide range of colors and its 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 5-month-old son. He said it was easy to unpack the parts and assemble them because they were neatly labeled boxes with video instructions and instructions.
The UPPAbaby also has a telescoping handlebar and brakes that are operated by your thumb. pushchairsandprams will allow it to make precise 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 provide a variety of customization options. You can even find one that is compatible with the car seat of your infant, making it even easier to get out and about with two kids in tow.
Whether you're looking for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, be sure it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets minimum safety standards and undergoes regular inspections. You should also consider a suspension system that provides a smooth ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jostling for your toddlers in the front seat. And if your stroller has an armrest, make sure it's adjustable to fit parents and dads of various heights.
A canopy is another essential feature that can shield your children from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The best canopies come with an reversible window or transparent plastic peek-aboo that lets you observe your child without disturbing them. Some canopies also come with the ability to shade direct sunlight.
Another important metric to take into consideration is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are much easier to store in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Strollers with a single button to fold the chassis are also easier to use.
When choosing a double stroller take into consideration the age gap between your children as well as the type of trip you're planning to take with them. For instance, if your children are in the same age range, you may want to opt for a tandem high-low stroller so that they can be together on outings. On the other the other hand, if you have a large age gap it is possible to choose a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, you should choose one with a high attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. This will not have as big an impact on the overall rating as other factors however it is crucial if you intend to use adapters for car seats.