Soft structured carrier recommendations for a toddler

[P.J.]

I have another thread going about how long you can comfortably carry your baby, which has led to this question.

My DS is now 9 months, but big ~around 22 lbs. We use an Ergo every day for front carries when we go out, and back carries when I cook. He's getting too heavy for front carries out and about, and I know I need to start carrying him on my back. However, the Ergo back carry is very low ~has his head at my shoulder blades.

So I'd like a recommendation for a toddler / larger baby soft structured carrier for back carries where he will be a bit higher up. Please tell me what you like about the one you recommend.

BTW we had a Didymos (woven wrap) but sold it because I found it way too fumbly to get on and off. A Mei Tai seems like it doesn't offer enough back and shoulder support, and besides the low back carry I love the Ergo and would like to stay with a soft structured carrier.

Thank you!

[MittensKittens]

We have an Ergo too, which is getting a bit too small now. I have heard great things about the Boba carrier, and also Baby Hawk Oh Snap. I have no tried either of them, but you might want to look into those.

[clovergirl]

Honestly, none of the SSCs on the market are going to carry your DS much higher on your back then the Ergo.  They are designed to have the structured waist band sit low, around the top of your hips, so that the baby's weight is transferred to your legs.  You could try wearing the Ergo waist a bit higher, like on your natural waistline.  Some women still find it comfortable there.  But if you are looking to do a true high back carry you will probably need to invest in a mei tai or a woven wrap.

[Thandiwe]

Originally Posted by clovergirl 

You could try wearing the Ergo waist a bit higher, like on your natural waistline.  Some women still find it comfortable there.  But if you are looking to do a true high back carry you will probably need to invest in a mei tai or a woven wrap.

Yeah, I was going to suggest this about the Ergo only with the Beco, which has a slightly longer body than the Ergo.  I like wearing toddlers in the Beco with it worn higher.  I also have a Kozy mei tai that I like to wear my 12 month old 19# baby in a high-back carry with.