As the amount of parents babywearing is steadily increasing, I've noticed a huge demand for buckle carriers. I often have a waitlist for consultations to try mine. Parents are realising that high street carriers, usually chosen for convenience and brand respectability, are simply not ergonomic enough for the length of time they want to carry their babies for. As a result I needed to stock some extra in my library...
Introducing the Soul Slings Full Buckle in garnet on maroon, baby size (around £80). They are suitable from 7-18kg (15-40lb). The design immediately caught my eye and I knew that I wanted it in my collection. Soul Slings are a family-owned company with fantastic values. The panel itself is handwoven in India supporting local weavers and the local economy.
I was really impressed with the delivery time from India which was under 2 weeks and the box was well-packaged. If you are buying direct from Soul remember you may have to pay customs fees. When I opened the branded cotton bag I was really excited about the quality of the fabric and the beautiful design. I knew it would be super soft and comfy to wear.
I managed to bribe my very independent toddler to go UP. The carrier buckles around the waist, through a safety loop. The waistband is fairly wide and padded. I pulled the body of the carrier up and put my arms through the straps, rucksack style. There is a clip that you fasten behind your neck that was easy to access. The carrier is incredibly adjustable, with many different adjustments to get a perfect fit. I found it was easy and smooth to tighten and felt perfect. There is a lovely sleep hood in the same fabric to provide extra support for sleeping babies.
What I love about this carrier is that the panel is wide - this is important for those with bigger babies and want a carrier that will last and provide optimum comfort for their child. Although the bigger our babies get, the less knee to knee is an issue, I loved that even my three year old felt well supported in it without dangling legs. If you are looking for a buckle carrier to invest in, this would be a great choice. I also love the shoulder straps which are padded and wide to prevent any digging or pressure.
This carrier can also be used for back carrying, which I was lucky enough to try with a client a few days ago. The feedback was that her baby felt weightless! :)
I am a woven wrap fan but I have to admit the ease and comfort of this carrier and the beautiful fabric tempted me away and I can't wait to start showing it to parents looking to move on from newborn carrying.
(as a brand ambassador, I received a discount on this carrier. All thoughts and opinions are my own :))
