Hip Seat Carriers are a specialized type of carrier that broadly distributes the weight of your baby. Most will have a removable seat that sits around the hip area and can help the wearer cope with a larger baby or toddler.
This allows for more weight to be distributed around the waist area, and makes you less top-heavy. This removes some pressure from your shoulders and back compared to a standard soft structured baby carrier.
While the frame can be a little bulkier due to the hip seat itself, they remain very user-friendly and are not any more complicated in the design of the straps and buckles.
A basic hip seat usually placed the seat inside the waistband. When you strap this on you can then position the seat where it is most comfortable.
This freedom of movement enables you to move around your baby as you fatigue and moving the pressure of the weight elsewhere.
In this article we will look for the best baby carriers with a hip seat and review the following products:
- Pognae No. 5 Hip Seat Carrier
- Sunveno Hip Seat Baby Carrier
- Moby Hip Seat Carrier
- Abiie Huggs Hip Seat Carrier
- Bebamour Hip Seat Carrier
- Nimnik 4 in 1 Hip Seat Carrier
- Bundle Tumble Hip Seat Carrier
- Honch Waist Stool Baby Carrier
- Viedouce Waist Stool
- ThreeH Baby Hip Seat Belt
Hipseat Carrier Designs
We have split the list below into two main design categories. So you can jump straight to the section that interests you the most.
Standard Hip Seat Baby Carrier
This takes on the baby carrier form you will be most familiar with. The main difference being the chunky seat that sits underneath the baby.
Some of the products that we have reviewed below have this as a removable feature.
Being able to unzip the frame and remove the hip seat is a nice feature to have if you want to remove some of the bulk for when you don’t need it.
Waist Stool Only
This design strips out most of the frame that comes with the standard carrier. All that remains is the hip seat itself, and a waist belt that wraps around you to hold it in place.
Some designs have just the seat, whereas others include an additional belt that goes around your baby’s waist to hold them securely in place.
These are smaller and generally much cheaper.
Best Hipseat Carriers of 2024
1. Pognae No. 5 Hip Seat Carrier
The Pognae No. 5 is made from deluxe materials and is feature packed, making it the best baby carriers on the market that includes a hip seat.
A key safety component is the neck and head support that adjusts to the correct position of your child. When combined with the retractable panel with air ventilation you can see why your infant will be super comfortable in this carrier.
This carrier is lightweight. On its own, it weighs around 800 grams only. This reduces the load, and when combined with the crisscrossed shoulder straps it provides excellent lumbar support and is a comfortable fit for the parent.
It is made from 100% organic materials so it is safe for you and your baby. Your child can start using this carrier from three months up to toddler age up to a maximum weight capacity of 45 lbs (20kgs).
The design is functional and durable as well. You can use this as a hip seat carrier on its own or attached and zip the body for added support and coverage.
Pro
- High-quality fabric and very comfortable padded straps.
- Convenient storage pockets on the side of the hip seat.
- The removable chew pad is a fabric saver, and easy to wash.
- Accommodates a plus size frame (up to 41″).
- Ergonimically superior.
Con
- The frame is heavier than most other carriers.
- Not for the budget conscious.
2. Sunveno Hip Seat Baby Carrier
The Sunveno is one of the most feature-rich designs on the list, and probably the best baby carrier at this middle price point.
The unique design is intended to reduce stress on the abdominal stress, and strain on the waist area. The X-type shoulder straps also provide excellent support and even weight distribution.
All while providing all the carrying positions that you would expect in hip seat carriers.
The material is 100% cotton and very comfortable on the skin. You can even remove the outer layer of material to create a breathable mesh for the warmer months of the year ensuring your baby is comfortable in the seat.
Speaking of the seat, there is a layer of silicone granules on the top to prevent your baby from moving around too much.
With a maximum waist size of 51″ you will find that this is one of the most suitable baby carriers for plus size parents.
There is also plenty of storage with pockets behind the hip seat, the back pad,
The only downside is that the recommended age is limited to 36 months old. Which is lower than some of the other baby carriers on our list. But not all parents can support the weight of a baby in a seat carrier above this age anyway, so this is only a minor negative.
Pro
- Unique ergonomic design.
- Feature-packed and excellent value.
- Great for plus size parents (51″ belt).
Con
- Only for use up to 36 months old.
3. Moby Hip Seat Baby Carrier
If you are after a mid-range option from a recognizable brand then the Moby Hip Seat baby carriers are a good choice.
You can carry your baby up to seven different ways with the Moby, in both carrier and hip seat only mode.
Recommended for use from 4 months old up to a similar maximum capacity to the Pognae No. 5.
The frame is fairly lightweight but has fewer features. It does include a built-in head cover to keep your baby comfortable and protected while sleeping.
Some users have reported feeling sore after using the Moby for a longer period of time with the weight distribution placing excess pressure on the lower back.
You can overcome this with proper adjustment to the shoulder straps though, and placing the hip seat at the correct height.
Pro
- High weight capacity (45lbs)
- Comfortable headcover.
- Light frame.
Con
- The velcro pocket. Arrgghh!!
- Lower back weight distribution if not properly adjusted.
4. Abiie HUGGS Baby Hip Seat Carrier
The ergonomic design and high weight limit will allow you to use your Abiie HUGGS hip seat carrier for as long as your body can handle the load of your growing baby.
The arch design of the seat carrier will ensure the legs of your little one stay in a healthy M position and minimize the risk of developing hip dysplasia.
The high-quality material will ensure you get years of use from your investment. If you are planning on having multiple kids then this longevity of use is important so you are not having to replace your carrier in the future.
You also have the option of crisscrossing the back straps if you are using the carrier for a longer period of time, or if you have a smaller frame and require a tighter fit. This provides excellent back support.
Pro
- Clever design with the center panel able to be folded, to increase the airflow if needed.
- Six carrying positions available if you include the criss-cross carry.
- Broad weight range with a max. load of 45 lbs.
- Two teething pads included that are a generous size.
Con
- Only the price point.
5. Bebamour Hip Seat Carrier
This latest version of the Bebamour is a serious upgrade on the old New Style range.
They have added an aluminum tube to the seat support, and also added some additional storage pockets on the front of the seat which is handy.
Another change we like is the use of soft cotton with polyester for the frame. Compared to the old polyester material that was a bit tough on the skin. There is also an extra bib included that acts as a handy drool pad on the center.
The Bebamour has a very intuitive design, and for a carrier with six different carrying positions, you will find it very easy to use.
The material used has excellent ventilation which will help prevent your child from getting too hot. It also keeps the soft structure of the carrier lightweight.
Pro
- Thin frame with light, breathable material
- Max weight of 33 pounds
- Includes hood to protect your child from the sun and wind.
Con
- Not suitable for those with a plus size frame.
- The thin frame will not provide much coverage if you want to breastfeed while carrying.
6. Nimnik Baby Hip Carrier
The Nimnik Baby Carrier is a near identical design to the Babi Bambino. This gives you some freedom to shop for the best price between the two brands, and also your favorite color. Both brands offer a few variations here.
When comparing the fabric you may find the Nimnik to be more suitable for a child with sensitive skin. The cotton fabric is preferable to many over polyester based designs.
The adjustable shoulder straps, and harness clips make this a very user-friendly design and comfortable to wear.
This is a very versatile design and a reliable carrier, for a very reasonable price.
Pro
- User-friendly design and is machine washable.
- Four positions available, including back carry.
- Good weight distribution.
Con
- The zippers can be stubborn and prone to breaking
- No Chew pad, this means a faster wearing strap when your baby’s teeth get hold of it.
7. Bundle Tumble Hip Seat Carrier
This hip seat carrier is sturdy and really versatile because you can use this in a number of different positions – frontal inward, frontal outward, backpack carry and hip carry.
Just like most hip carriers, you can start using this carrier from three months old onward. The maximum capacity of 40 lbs. It has adjustable straps and superior back support.
You can also separate the hip seat to use as a way to prop up your child, without the full carrier frame. Useful for around the house when your child just wants to be carried.
Pro
- Unique denim and cotton material with great ventilation. Great for warmer weather.
- Option to wear this as a backpack! One of four positions this carrier can accommodate.
- You can use the full carrier apparatus or just the hip seat.
Con
- Not all available designs come with the hip seat, so double check this prior to purchasing.
Best Waist Stool Only Hip Seat Carrier
1. Honch Waist Stool Baby Carrier
For parents who only plan to use their hip seat carrier at home then the Honch waist stool can be a great money saver!
The design includes the hip seat, but no shoulder straps.
What sets the Honch apart is the safety strap that wraps around your baby and is anchored in the waist strap. So despite the lack of a baby carrier frame around your little one, it is perfectly safe to let go of your baby and still be able to use your hands.
The other unique feature is the neck strap. Other designs like this only have the waist belt which doesn’t stay in place as well. The neck strap holds this up nicely and can be slipped on over your head just like an apron.
Quick and easy!
If you have a heavy baby the inside of the hip seat can get a bit uncomfortable when you use it for a while. The cushioning is a bit thin there.
Pro
- Lower price point
- Great baby safety features
- Neck strap is removable.
- Handy side pockets.
Con
- Needs more cushion.
2. Viedouce Hip Seat Carrier Waist Stool
This is another hip seat only baby carrier that has a very clever design, and plenty of features for such a small unit.
The Viedouce also has a strap to hold your baby in place. It is slightly different in that it has a 360 degree hold around your baby.
On one hand, the material is breathable mesh and better material than the Honch in our opinion.
However, the downside is that it is held in place with velcro that sits behind the baby’s back. This makes it hard to quietly remove a sleeping baby from the carrier.
Overall the cost is roughly the same for both of these carriers.
Pro
- Lower price point.
- Cotton material.
- Handy side pockets.
Con
- Velcro on the baby strap.
3. ThreeH Baby Hip Seat Belt
If you are after the simplest and cheapest option then the ThreeH gives you the hip seat for your baby, and that’s pretty much it.
Great for parents who just want to hip carry and have no need for hands free movement. You will always have to hold on to your baby as there are no additional straps.
There are also no clips holding the belt in place. It is velcro only so can only be tightened by adjusting the whole thing.
Pro
- Cheap and simple.
Con
- Need to hold your baby.
- Velcro strap.
How To Choose Your Hip Seat Carrier
The size of your baby, intended use, and your physical strength will determine which carrier is best suited for your needs.
Just follow the four Cs as your reference point when comparing each carrier.
Carrying Position
The padded and wide waistband can help in proper weight distribution in the hip belt. This distributes the load across the back and the pelvis region preventing lower back pain.
With many carriers including the option to remove most of the carrier and just use the hip seat, this can be a quick and easy way to take some pressure off if you are constantly picking up your baby around the house.
So consider lifestyle demands and the positions that you will get the most use out of.
For the Baby
Hip seat carriers should facilitate a proper seating position.
While your child is seating on the carrier, the hips are in a neutral position preventing any injuries or deformities in the future and prevent conditions like hip dysplasia.
Comfort
There is nothing worse than a carrier that just doesn’t feel right. You know that with every passing minute, any level of discomfort that you initially ignored will worsen and could become downright painful.
If you plan to hip carry a toddler, any discomfort will be amplified due to the extra weight in the cargo.
The quality of the padding, and structure of the design are key to a comfortable babywearing experience. This ensures an evenly distributed weight balance across your frame to minimize fatigue and the risk of injury over time.
Carrier Weight
Your baby will be heavy enough without the added burden of a heavy carrier to go with it.
We have restricted our list to only include carriers in the weight range of 1lb-2.3lbs. Most are well under 2lbs and will feel light as a feather. This is especially important if you expect prolonged use of your carrier, or if you suffer from back problems.
Be mindful that those in the premium category are generally 0.5-1 lb heavier than our budget recommendations.
Cost
The carriers that we will look at fall into two camps. The premium quality with the price tag to match, and the regular everyday budget carriers.
Which category matters most to you will depend on your budget, strength, and your desire for comfort. There are some great options in both spaces and you don’t need to spend a fortune on a great carrier.
How to Wear a Hip Seat Carrier
Keep Your Baby Upright
If your child is at a slanting position, you are forced to bend forward. This can bend your spine may lead to pain and discomfort over time.
It is always advised to keep your child in an upright sitting position for ensuring that your back is also straight.
Harness Back Straps
Make sure that the baby is in a stable position and harness the straps. This ensures the stability of your hip and does not strain your back.
Your child should be reasonably secure and not be able to move around too much. This will cause additional physical strain if they can move around.
Position
Your child should be carried in the side position to avoid overburdening at the back. The side carriers ensure that you have wrapped your back properly.
A carrier that uses wraps instead of straps ensures ample coverage and support to the body of parents.
Be sure to mix up the position also. Prolonged use in the same position over time could lead to an imbalance in your muscles, RSI, or generally poor posture.
By changing positions you will engage different muscles and keep things balanced.
Hip Seat Carrier Disadvantages
Cannot Use With a Newborn
You will generally have to wait until your child is 3-4 months old before they will have developed sufficient neck control, and are physically big enough to use a hipseat carrier properly.
If you are looking for something more suitable for newborns check this post.
Unsuitable For Those With Hip and Back Problems
The purpose of the seat is to redistribute weight across the hips. If you have hip issues or lower back pain then this could potentially aggravate any existing issues.
You should consult with your doctor prior to using any baby carrier to ensure that it is within your physical capacity. You may also be better off getting a baby carrier with additional lumbar support instead.
Can Be Uncomfortable On Hips
There is usually a foam insert that creates the seat shape. Some users just struggle to fit this over their hips in a comfortable way.
Moms on the petite side are more likely to struggle with this type of carrier but dads with a larger frame are generally fine.
Not Recommended After C-Section
If you have had a cesarian then the hip seat could place additional pressure on your scar. This makes some moms too uncomfortable to use this style of carrier.
It may require extra healing time before you use one of these carriers.
Final Word
The most important thing that you should look in a hip seat baby carrier is versatility in design and the different ways you can position your baby.
This will ensure that you get good value out of your carrier and will be able to use it for years to come.
As your child grows they will be strong enough to try all positions that the variety will be good for their curious minds.
Even though the Pognae No. 5 is a more expensive option, we think it is the best baby carrier on the market with a hip seat and still offers great value for money due to the comfortable experience you will have.
The superior ergonimics and back support will minimize any physical wear and tear you may experience over time. This will ensure that you stick with babywearing for longer, and with the high-quality fabric, this carrier will go the distance.
When you look at all the features then you can see why it is one of the best baby carriers on the market. But it does come with a price tag to match.
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