Soft
Structured carrier under review:
-
The Ergobaby Performance baby carrier (navy
blue with black lining/hood)
Additional
component (optional) :
-
infant insert
-
teething pad
The
carrier is for babies between 5.5kg to 20kg. An infant insert is to be used
together for babies weighing 3.2kg to 5.5kg. I think below 3.2kg, you cannot
use the carrier at all. This instruction can be found on the note sewn on the
carrier. This plastic note is a dead giveaway for counterfeit Ergobaby products
if u spot any spelling errors on it.
Designed
in USA, this carrier allows my baby to be seated comfortably, especially so for
infants after 5 months old, babies with a better head and neck control. When my
baby was about 2 months old, because of my c-section wound, it hurt so much
that I could not wear it for long as the wound has not quite healed internally.
Moreover, the infant insert will make both mother and baby perspire so much as
it is too thick to be suitable for Singapore’s hot climate. I did away with it
just after 1 time usage. Don’t waste money to get the extra infant insert which
cost me about $79 if I didn’t remember wrongly. Some shops sell it for $42.50
now. I can’t remember how much exactly I paid for it. Before I gave birth, my
mind was too preoccupied with the continuous counting of my baby’s heartbeats
in case something went wrong.
2 months old 4 months old
The weight is supposed to be evenly distributed across the shoulders and hips but for me, the weight seemed to be focused at my back. The padded shoulder pads made it comfortable for me to babywear. When my baby starting teething at 2 months, I started to get teething pads for the carrier. Ergobaby does carry teething pads which are sold separately. These are quite thick and comfy in case you want to get a pair.
Due to Singapore’s hot climate, we needed to ensure that our baby does get enough ventilation and wind to cool given that both of us perspire and radiate heat. I came up with a brilliant plan by attaching a clip on fan on the hood of the carrier so as to improve the breathability of the sports carrier. The slip on hood also prevent glares in the ever sunny Singapore.
Initially my baby is “drowning” in the carrier but now, at 9.5 months, my daughter is more than 72 cm tall and her nape is above the top of the carrier, making it less hot. This is better as my daughter has good head and neck control and the space gives her the opportunity to turn her head to explore the surroundings with curious fascination. Her legs are able to rest comfortably at the sides of the carrier with a padded waist belt. She is also able to move her hands at the open sides of the carrier.
In conclusion, Ergo Performance baby carrier is easy to care for, ergonomic for the baby to sit in for an average build user and suitable for babies preferably above 5 months with good head and neck support. By adding a clip-on fan, babies can be cooled down in Singapore’s hot and humid climate.
