Let’s talk strollers. You’d think picking a stroller would be a straightforward decision, right? Wrong. Between price tags, setup options, and a laundry list of features that sound like they were taken straight from a luxury SUV, I’ve found myself deep-diving into reviews, feature lists, and accessory catalogs.
It all boiled down to two big names: Mockingbird and UPPAbaby. Here’s my take on both:
If price and value matter…Mockingbird
Let’s be honest—strollers are a big investment. I wanted something well-built and reliable but didn’t want to pay a small fortune for a feature I’d barely use.
The Mockingbird Double Stroller clocks in at about $450 for one seat, and $590 for one seat with the bassinet attachment. This is a fraction of what you’d shell out for the UPPAbaby Vista V2, which is $999 for one seat and a bassinet.
Mockingbird also offers a second seat attachment for $145, while a second seat from UPPAbaby is $249—and Mockingbird's Riding Board is $95, while UPPAbaby's PiggyBack will cost you $134.
UPPAbaby is nice, don’t get me wrong, but with a price that can creep up to nearly double that of the Mockingbird, I had to ask myself: what exactly was I paying for?
If you want a stroller that’ll grow with your kids…Mockingbird
When (or if) baby #2 arrives, being able to easily expand your stroller can be a lifesaver. Mockingbird’s single-to-double setup was a breeze to figure out. Just grab the Mockingbird 2nd Seat Kit (sold separately) and you’ve got a functional, sturdy double stroller.
Plus, Mockingbird’s 22 configuration options allow me to adjust as my child grows, giving me options for tandem, side-by-side, and more, making every outing flexible and easy to manage.
UPPAbaby can be converted to a double set-up too, but it doesn’t offer quite as many configuration options—making it a bit harder to customize for our family’s needs. If strolling with an infant and a toddler, and using the bassinet attachment for the infant, the bassinet must go in the bottom configuration! This can be a hassle for new parents who’d rather have their baby up top where they can see them easily.
If you like to geek out over suspension systems…UPPAbaby
Both strollers bring some impressive tech to the table when it comes to ride quality. Mockingbird’s all-wheel suspension and shock-absorbing, never-flat tires give my kids a smooth, steady ride even on uneven sidewalks. The reversible, removable seat makes it easy to change direction and keep my toddler entertained as we stroll. It’s got that high-end feel without the high-end price tag.
UPPAbaby’s Vista V2 takes this one by a small margin, though, thanks to their suspension system which has a slight edge on Mockingbird. I personally find it a little bit smoother on extra-bumpy terrain like cobblestone.
If you like something that’s easy to use…Mockingbird
When I’m juggling bags of groceries and balancing the baby in a car seat, I need a stroller that’s as simple to fold as possible. Both strollers offer a one-hand fold feature and auto-lock functionality, so I didn’t have to wrestle with either.
But there was a clear winner in terms of functionality: Mockingbird’s lightweight, flexible design means it folds compactly and stands upright, fitting easily in the trunk. And since its handlebar is adjustable, my wife and I can switch who pushes without any backaches from crouching or reaching.
UPPAbaby does a fine job too, but the Vista V2 is bulkier, meaning it’s tougher to lug around. You also need two hands to fold it, making it that much harder especially when juggling a little one. And although it has an adjustable handle, the stroller’s limited maneuverability makes for a workout if you’re handling multiple bags or kids at once.
If compatibility matters…Mockingbird
Mockingbird has a trick up its sleeve here with compatibility. Its Car Seat Adapter pairs with over 40 top infant car seats, meaning no scrambling to find compatible gear. Add to that a canopy with UPF 50+ protection (plus a peekaboo window), an extra-large 25-lb storage basket, and an adjustable footrest with a handy crumb catcher. These add-ons don’t just feel like extras—they’re practical for everyday use.
UPPAbaby doesn’t have quite the same variety or flexibility in car seat adapters, making Mockingbird’s open compatibility hard to beat for parents looking to customize and streamline their setup.
The Final Verdict: Mockingbird Takes the Win
After stacking them up side by side, Mockingbird takes the crown in my book. The Mockingbird Double Stroller’s value, flexibility, and range of compatible accessories make it the ideal choice for a dad who wants the best for his kid without dropping a small fortune. It fits our family’s needs perfectly with that single-to-double convenience, a robust setup, and features that help keep the day moving with ease.
So for dads looking to take something off their wife’s plate… go ahead and get this stroller.
