Best all-rounder for 8mo+?

[mummybare]

Hi there, just wondering if anyone has any recommendations for a sturdy carrier for an 8mo, preferably with a good year in it?

She loves to look around so forward facing is a must. Back carrying would be good too as she gets heavier. Ideally we'd one both me and DH can use. There are just so many different ones out there, it's a bit overwhelming.

Thanks!

If you want something more mainstream then an Ergo would be perfect. I loved mine so much. But my real recommendation would be a Melkaj Mei Tai.

Thanks zeeboo - yes the Ergo looks like the sort of thing. I do have a Mei Tai one that I use occasionally (I didn't think you could do forward facing, though, which DD would much prefer...),, but DH won't use it - I think he wants more buckles and straps

Sooo, having had a little peruse, I think we like the look of Ergo, the Manduca or the Beco Butterfly or Gemini. I'm not sure you can do forward facing in some of them, but I also just read something that said forward facing isn't recommended at all... Can anyone clear that up for me as it's the first I've hear of it?

And any thoughts on the brands mentioned?

Many thanks :)

*heard

Forward facing isn't at all recommended as it's not a natural way for them to sit. It's a bit like dangling from a harness rather than cuddling in froggy position. There's also thought to be a risk of hip dysplasia.

We used an ergo which is fab but other similar carriers are good too. I tended to just use back Carries after a year -the child is facing same way as you so sees what you do add is at head height for conversation etc.

these are the arguments against front facing although as she says I'm sure short carries aren't going to do anyone any harm

Wow, I didn't realise. Thanks for the info/link. So I guess as long as we can back and front carry - for long walks/ nipping out as appropriate, then I guess we're good. Glad I posted now, it has definitely helped focus my search!