Why Soft Structured Carriers?
Soft structured (SSC) or buckle carriers are great for someone who wants an easy to put on carrier that doesn’t require wrangling with a long wrap or mei tai straps. The downside is that you may have to try multiple brands to get the best fit as they are less adjustable than other carriers. SSCs are good for front and back carries (and sometimes hip carries). In general, they can not be used for back carries as early as mei tais or woven wraps because they are worn lower on the back (baby should be able to sit well unassisted before being carried low on the back). But many wearers find them easier to back carry in since no tying is involved.
Brands of SSCs
SSCs are among the easiest to find quality carriers. However, there are quite a few less than stellar carriers out there – everything with buckles is not created equal (check out our post here for more information on many buckle carriers available at big box retailers should be avoided). We have listed here brands that we know and trust; some are available at various retailers and others only through the manufacturer. If you are interested in a brand not listed here, we recommend you check reviews at TheBabyWearer before purchasing. Links provided are to manufacturers’ pages.
- Babyhawk Oh Snap: available through various retailers; taller body is better for larger infants and toddlers
- Bamberoo SSC: only available through Bamberoo; taller body is better for larger infants and toddlers; infant size also available
- Beco: widely available at retailers; internal harness for an easier back carry
- Boba: available at various retailers; taller body is better for larger infants or toddlers
- Dream Carriers: only available through Dream Carriers; several size available including toddler/preschool sizes
- Ergo: the most widely available quality carrier on the market; requires an infant insert for newborns and small infants; shorter body makes it not as big toddler friendly as other options
- Kanga: only available through Bloo Kangaroo; available in infant, standard, toddler, and preschool sizes
- Kinderpack: only available through Kindercarry; taller body is better for larger infants and toddlers; available in preschool and infant sizes as well
- Ocah: only available through Ocah; specializes in wrap conversions; several sizing options available
- Olives and Applesauce: available from various retailers; several size options and internal harness option available
- Catbird Baby Pikkolo: available from various retailers
MORE COMING SOON!!
