I have 3 month old and a 2 year old. We own a Maya Wrap, a Baby Bjorn and two frame backpacks. I'm looking for a good hip carrier that will last till at least a year of age. My kids are tall. My first one reached the 26" height limit on his carseat at 4 months, and my second is on course to do the same. I really need something for easy in/out for trips to the grocery store from 3-8 months (till he can sit easily in the cart).
Loved the Maya when he was a newborn, not so crazy about it anymore. When I have to chase my 2 year old I just don't feel like the baby is secure enough in the kangaroo carry for me to move and bend. Maybe he's too little for a good hip carry in the Maya at this point, but I just feel like the fabric is so wide, if I try the hip carry it seems like the lower ring just digs into the underside of his knees.
I like the security of the Baby Bjorn, and my baby likes to face outward. But having enjoyed the more ergonomic design of the Maya wrap, I've come to really hate the strain that the Baby Bjorn puts on my upper back.
I looked into the Ergo carriers, but it seems like a lot of people don't like them for the hip carry. I saw someone use an Ergo on the back, and I was just totally freaked out watching her get the baby into position. So I'm not thrilled about every doing a back carry (we already have two frame style baby backpacks anyway).
So what's the best option in hip carriers these days?