I spent a lot of time comparing a number of carriers - different types first and then narrowing down different brands. I wanted something very quick and easy to get baby in and out of. This is primarily for use when I'm out and about running errands. I want to get my little man out of his car seat and into a carrier, and vice versa, quickly when I'm running between stores. I also obviously wanted something that would be comfortable for him and for myself for the quick trips, but also for longer periods if we're at Disney or something else. I narrowed my choices down to this, the Ergo 360, and a Tula. When I started my search, my criteria were: ease of use, comfort, hip support, highest weight limit possible, highest back possible, and most carrying positions possible. I was disappointed that the 4g only allows for two carrying positions, but I love everything else it features, so I thought I'd try it. I chose not to get the Ergo 360 mainly because the waist band is Velcro instead of a plastic buckle. The Tula looked awesome but the 4g offered more.
I love that this has foot straps for when your little one gets bigger. It supports the hips well, but when they get taller those legs get heavier, and I think the foot straps will be great. I also appreciate the fact that you don't have to purchase a separate infant insert (seriously Ergo?). The head cover is great as well if it's bright and sunny and your little one falls asleep. The back is nice and high. My little one is 7 months and in the higher percentiles, but he still has plenty of room to grow into this carrier. He fits well and is relaxed and appears to be comfy when he's in it. It's easy to get off and on by yourself, and easy to get him in and out of. I like that it's all buckles instead of Velcro and/or long pieces of fabric. I have a Moby wrap that I loved when he was little but let's be honest, it's a giant pain to put on in a parking lot.
I live in Florida and I wish there was a cooler option with thinner fabric, but this fabric feels really tough, like it will hold up to a lot of wear and tear. I have a Bjorn that's mesh and cooler, but the weight limit is pretty low and I wanted something with a bit more hip support for my wee one.
All in all I'm happy with my purchase. I think I would have liked the Ergo (other than the Velcro) or the Tula, but this carrier fits all my needs and I'm very happy I went with this particular carrier. I went in to this wanting four carrying positions, but it really wasn't a deal breaker for me. The window for forward facing in a carrier is pretty small, and the hip carry, ehh, I can take it or leave it.
| Product Dimensions | 20.87 x 15.75 x 0.39 inches |
|---|---|
| Item model number | BOBA4G-DUSK |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Awards won | Yes |
| Target gender | Unisex |
| Minimum weight recommendation | 7 Pounds |
| Maximum weight recommendation | 45 Pounds |
| Material Type | Cotton |
| Care instructions | Machine Wash |
| Batteries required | No |
| Orientation | Front |
| Is portable | No |
| Item Weight | 2.2 pounds |
