Buying lightweight double stroller is a great option for parents to take multiple children. The most effective models are easy to fold, carry and place into a trunk of a car. They also offer various seating arrangements for children of different ages.
Parents with children close in age may find a side-by-side or sit-and stand style is best to avoid sibling fights over who rides in which seat. We also like options which allow two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for both your toddler and baby. Pick one with padded seats, a wide base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth out bumps on the road, and buckles that are easy to unfasten and fasten.
You can also search for a generous, UPF 50+ canopy, which provides sun protection and ample coverage for both children. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests that allow your child to stand in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, like 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 who will be using it. For instance, a side by side stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's generally larger than other models and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or in areas with a lot of people.
On the other hand, a sit-and stand stroller allows older siblings to stand while you push your younger child in the infant car seat. It's not the best choice for babies, but it is useful for older children that can walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is a different option. It comes with a variety of seating options and can be used for years as a double or single. 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 our top tandem choice, but it will last for a long time, offers a high potential for resales and is extremely versatile," she says.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It is not as compact as other models, but it features an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and comes with a telescoping handlebar as well as easy-to-press brakes. It also comes with tires filled with foam that won't go flat and a large storage basket.
Ease of Use
A double stroller is not an inexpensive investment, which is why parents are usually looking for one that is simple to use. That means a wide range of features, ranging from the ability to fold it compactly to adjusting the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be readily available. Some models have more than one storage space that allow families to divide items for quick access, as well as parent consoles or organizer bags to keep phones, keys, and other essentials within reach.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing needs of your family over time. For instance, a cost-effective model like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that allows you to add a seat, transform it into a triple using the rideboard, or change to a single-mode with a rear bench. This flexibility can make double strollers last the time you need it to.
When it comes to maneuverability, some side-byside models struggle to turn on a dime however, the majority of our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of use and maneuverability of the inline Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins and kids of varying ages. The telescoping handles and simple-to-use brakes make it more flexible than other double strollers we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double it's on the other hand, is sleek and stylish. It also comes with an ample basket that can fit two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's car seat. It can be used by one child as young as three years old. Its tires that are filled with foam are made to not flatten.
The UPPAbaby folds in half, making it simple to store and transport. It's also very light and weighs only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close using the latch, and requires no tools to put together. It was a top pick by our Lab experts for its durability, shopability, and affordability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers should be able to hold diaper bags and water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for the kids, as well as parents keys, wallets, phones and other belongings. They must also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight places. When not in use they usually have to be tucked into the trunk of a car.
To meet these requirements Double strollers are built in a wide range of styles. They can be side-by-side or tandem with fixed or removable seats, or be equipped with infant car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to fit one toddler or infant, or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others could be used for hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families that need to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance 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 entire family from birth to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be converted to a single child by using baby seats or a bassinet or for a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The versatile UPPAbaby can be set up in a variety of ways, making it ideal for twins, siblings or growing families.
The UPPAbaby is also committed to sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes with various 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. Raul says it was simple to take apart and assemble since the components were neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
Another excellent feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated using only your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its front can aid in making tighter turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers have been criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of strollers are sleek and offer many customization options. You will find one that can fit 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 that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It will also undergo regular inspections. You'll want to ensure that the suspension system offers an easy ride for your children in the front seat. If your stroller is equipped with a handlebar, be sure it's adjustable to fit Moms and Dads of different heights.
A canopy can protect your child from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The best canopy features the option of a reversible flap, or a transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo to allow you to monitor your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies come with visors to block direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is an important factor to consider. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are easier to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers that have a single hand-release button that folds the chassis are much more convenient to use.
When choosing a double stroller, keep in mind how far apart your children are in age 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 to allow them to interact during outings. On the other hand, if your children have a significant age difference, you might choose an option that is side-by-side, which gives them more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, select one with a good attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. It won't have as much of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics however it's a crucial aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using adapters for car seats.