Valco Baby Tri Mode EX Twin

Parents of infant twins -- especially those who also have an older toddler -- love the Valco Baby Tri Mode EX Twin for its versatility, but the added function comes at a cost. Reviewers praise the added headroom of the large, rounded and separate canopies, which include zipper storage compartments. Handles are adjustable from 30 to 41.5 inches high. The EX Twin is narrower than many double strollers at just 29 inches wide, so it fits easily through most doorways.

With the purchase of the Joey Toddler Seat (*Est. $80), the Tri Mode EX Twin can transport a total of three children. It can also be converted to a double pram with the purchase of bassinets (*Est. $180 each); a car seat converter (*Est. $40) may be used with Graco, Peg Perego, Britax and Maxi-Cosi car seats. However, only one infant carrier can be used at a time. Snack trays (*Est. $20) and cupholders (*Est. $15) can also be purchased separately.

Some owners complain that the EX Twin's under-seat storage baskets are too small or difficult to access, and that the stroller is heavy at 33 pounds. (One review site says it weighed the stroller at 39 pounds, but Valco Baby sticks by its stated weight of 33 pounds. Another source notes that the company trimmed overall stroller weights in 2011, so that first evaluation may have used a 2010 or earlier model.) Reviews are also mixed on whether the EX Twin should be used for jogging. The manufacturer says it's suitable for "light jogging," and several expert reviewers call it a good value for a combined jogging/urban lifestyle stroller. Yet at least one serious jogger says it's not ideal for those who plan to log significant mileage.

The best evaluation of the Valco Baby Tri Mode EX Twin is found at Babble.com's 2011 Double Stroller Roundup, where reviews are detailed and take lifestyle into account. BabyGizmo.com's thorough analysis details the pros and cons of the Tri Mode EX Twin. The popular baby-gear book "Baby Bargains" reviews the Valco Baby brand in general, with a mention of the Tri Mode model. Several blogs, including People magazine's Celebrity Baby Blog and Minivan or Clown Car? offer individual product reviews. Consumer feedback is valuable but fairly limited, which isn't unusual for a pricier stroller.