Road Test: Parent-approved carriers

Babylonia BB Slen, $119
From birth-40 pounds
“After almost a year of wearing my daughter (and trying every carrier under the sun), I couldn’t wait to use the BB Slen. Because the fabric doesn’t stretch, it took a little practice to get it tied just right—but I love that it doesn’t budge or sag, even with my heavy little lady loaded in.”

MOBY Bamboo Wrap, $50
From 8-30 pounds
“With my third baby, I finally worked up the courage to try a wrap—I wish I’d done it sooner! The Bamboo Wrap offers such a snuggly way to carry a newborn. Plus, the fabric is silky soft.”

LÍLLÉbaby COMPLETE All Seasons, $150
From 7-45 pounds
“With six carrying positions, a zippered pocket and a green light for machine-washing, the COMPLETE All Seasons was promising straight out of the package. Our favorite part is the zip-down front panel that allows for ventilation in the summer and warmth during the winter.”

Ergobaby Four Position 360 Cool Air, $180
From 7-33 pounds (7-12 pounds requires infant insert, sold separately)
“We’ve been Ergobaby fans from the get-go, so it’s no surprise we love the Cool Air, too. It allows our babe to face out with proper support—even the International Hip Dysplasia Institute approves!—and the mesh panels keep us both from getting too sweaty.”

General Public Ring Sling N°2, $80
From 5-35 pounds
“The 100 percent linen Ring Sling N°2 has been a welcome addition to our babywearing repertoire. It’s easy to use, instantly elevates my outfit (never thought I’d consider a carrier an accessory, but I do!) and has a built-in pocket on the tail for my phone or my babe’s paci.”

Boba Air, $65
From 15-45 pounds
“The Air is about a third of the size of my other soft-structured carrier, so it’s ideal for travel. The lightweight fabric also ensures neither parent nor passenger gets too hot—which is great because in a dream world, we’re all taking beach vacations.”

Baby K’tan ACTIVE, $60
From 8-35 pounds
“Using the ACTIVE wasn’t nearly as complicated as I feared it would be. In fact, it was pretty straightforward. I was glad to find, too, that it’s made of wicking material (like an athletic shirt) that protects against UVA and UVB rays.”