I'll write a bit of a lengthy review so other mamas can get a better sense of how this worked for us. I have a Petunia Pickle Bottom organic original Ergo and this one, the new 4-position 360. I'll compare them briefly. First, a bit about my stature since this is a big consideration for baby-wearers. If your carrier is not ergonomically right for you, you'll find yourself hurting or just plain not using your carrier.
I am 5' 2", 110 lb. and would consider myself a gal of ample bust so it was important to find a carrier that was comfortable in that way. The Ergo works beautifully for us so far. We've used it as a front (both directions) and side carry for shorter time periods (about 20-30 minutes at a time) and while little one doesn't like to be confined at this age, it seems to be comfortable for us both, with no fussing. I use this running errands, grocery shopping, shorter walks, restaurant outings, and day outings where baby can get out frequently. If you're an "active" mama, this carrier is great for around town but stick with a Kelty/Deuter/Osprey for hiking, etc.
OVERALL
I find this version, the ERGO 360, to be even better suited to my stature than my original. I'm short-waisted and the body height of the carrier is just right for me. Not too tall but still supportive of baby's head without being in her way to look at the world. The 'deep' pocket to accommodate baby's bottom is great for her positioning and really comfortable for us both, especially when nursing as it helps the carrier keep its shape better than the original. The velcro waistband is a plus in my experience, as it stays put and does not require constant re-cinching. The extra width is much more comfortable for me, too, since I'm slender and the old waistband sat right on my hip bones, causing soreness. I also find I have no lower back pain at all after using the 360, which is a huge difference from the original. The convenience, comfort for both mama and baby, proper baby positioning, and styling are great on the new 360 and I recommend it highly!
VELCRO vs. CLIPS
Yes, the velcro is louder than the clips on the original Ergo. Yes, it does catch on fabric if you don't re-attach the velcro to itself when you take off the belt, but for me, the thickness and stability that the velcro provides at the waist are well worth taking an extra minute to avoid snags. It doesn't need to be constantly re-cinched and that's a big plus. If you put your little one down to sleep right out of the carrier, just leave the belt part on and undo it in another room. Noise problem solved. If you can't get your little one down without being right next to him, just leave the belt on while you snuggle up until you can sneak away. It's really pretty comfy.
4-POSITION vs. ORIGINAL
We love the variety of carries, and baby loves to face out to see the world. This was the biggest difference, of course. We tried a ring sling but for me, it was painful on my neck and shoulders no matter how I had it fitted, and a baby-wearing pro even helped me fit it properly. She said they're just not for everyone. The variety in positioning on the ERGO 360 gives both baby and mama a chance to rest certain muscles either from day to day or throughout the day if you absolutely have to carry for longer periods. The adjustable, wide base design is really great and the padding helps keep baby's legs comfortable. On my original, the fabric was not as "cushy" at the legs and caused baby's legs to have marks in very little time. In the 360, baby's legs are more comfortable. I also think the depth of the seat helps with this.
HOOD
The hood on the new version is just like the old version. Still easy to use. Difference is that this one tucks really easily into the foldover head support. Love that!
SHOULDER STRAPS
I am enjoying the new straps and like the adjustable center back strap design. My husband can wear this by easily sliding the center strap down the shoulder straps. The little elastics help take up the slack of the straps when I'm wearing them. I don't notice a big difference in comfort in comparison with my original ERGO.
STORAGE
I do miss the ease of the front pocket, but have used the hood pocket to carry my ID, a card and house key. It works well for me as long as we don't need to use the hood.
DROOL PADS
The drool pads are too expensive, IMHO. My old ones only cover the straps but on this version, little one chews the front fold-over. Soon I'm sure some clever Etsy ladies will be selling all kinds of fun patterns. Right now there are only a few out there and I plan to sew my own:-)
FABRIC
I find the fabric weight on this version to be just right. In weather above 85/90 degrees, it will be too warm for longer walks, but it's really pretty comfortable and soft right out of the box.
| Product Dimensions | 6.7 x 10.5 x 6.7 inches |
|---|---|
| Item model number | BC360PBLKGRY |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Target gender | Unisex |
| Minimum weight recommendation | 5.5 Kilograms |
| Maximum weight recommendation | 45 Pounds |
| Material Type | Cotton |
| Material Composition | 100% Cotton |
| Care instructions | Machine Wash |
| Number Of Items | 1 |
| Style | Cool Air Mesh |
| Batteries required | No |
| Dishwasher safe | No |
| Orientation | Back |
| Is portable | No |
| Item Weight | 1.54 pounds |
