July 11, 2024
You’ve probably noticed that we have two new hip seat baby carriers - the Ergobaby Alta and the Ergobaby Lift. Our family continues to grow. But if we already have the perfect baby carriers in our range, why are we adding new ones? Because we are dedicated to giving you maximum support through every step of your parenting journey. Whether you have a newborn, baby, toddler, or a combination of the three, this post will give you a glimpse into the differences between the Omni, Alta, and Lift and help you choose which carrier is right for you!
Omni: A padded lumbar support waist belt and shoulder straps distribute baby's weight evenly across your upper body, making it comfortable to wear even over long periods and as the baby grows. The shoulder straps can either be worn comfortably in the H-position using the connecting strap on the back or in a crisscross across the back. For baby, the deep bucket seat encourages an ergonomic ‘spread-squat position’ and guarantees comfort during all stages of their development and in all carry positions. Omni carriers have the AGR seal of approval certifying them as ‘back friendly’.
Alta: A wide hip belt (and shoulder straps when the panel is attached) distributes baby's weight evenly to ensure comfort for you, while the pre-shaped and padded seat made of foamed plastic provides little one with secure, ergonomic support.
Lift: A wide hip belt is comfortable to wear and distributes baby's weight evenly to relieve your back, arms, and hips. A wide, curved, and cushioned seat supports baby’s hips and legs by seating them in an ergonomic position while contouring to the wearer’s body. The seat’s Keep Baby Close™ angle supports your child’s back in a natural position appropriate to their age and developmental stage.
All three products are designed to suit most body sizes and have been designated ‘hip-healthy’ by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
Alta: Can be used from approximately four months of age (12 lbs) with the back panel, or without from approximately six months. It can be used until your child reaches 45 lbs. It can also be used to support a newborn baby’s weight more easily in the cradle position (including while breastfeeding).
Lift: Can be used from approximately six months of age, once the baby has good head and neck control, and again up to 45 lbs. It can also be used to support a newborn baby’s weight more easily in the cradle position (including while breastfeeding), making it handy to have on hand from day one.
All three products come with the ErgoPromise™ Lifetime Warranty, which covers against material and manufacturing defects, giving you peace of mind that your carrier will be there every step of the way as your baby (or family) grows.
Alta: Ultra-lightweight, Alta offers maximum breathability thanks to SoftFlex™ Mesh material with a removable foam seat made of EPP (expanded polypropylene).
Lift: Made of Poly-Twill (like the soft cotton of the Omni Dream) with an anti-slip grip on the seat to hold baby securely and a removable foam seat made of EPP (expanded polypropylene).
All three carriers are also machine washable (after removing the foam pad for Alta and Lift).
Alta: This chameleon carrier’s biggest secret weapon is the removable back panel that lets it switch between being a baby carrier, from four months old, and a hip seat with all the benefits they bring.
Lift: When your little one gets to the stage where they constantly want to come up, then down, then up, then down, every few seconds it simply becomes not worth putting your full all-position baby carrier on and taking it off again each time. That’s when a hip seat becomes your best friend. It’s the ideal choice for shorter carrying times and quick, flexible changes of carrying positions, whether at home making dinner or out and about. It relieves discomfort in your back and arms and is also great for sharing with other caregivers who aren’t used to using a baby carrier but would appreciate the support: grandparents, friends, etc.
The Hip Seat Carriers and All Position Baby Carrier At a Glance
Omni: Our Omni Breeze and Omni Dream baby carriers are our top all-position carriers. They are ready for use from birth (about 7lbs) and will last through toddlerhood (up to 45lbs) and offer all four carry positions (inward facing, outward facing, hip carry, and back carry). They are ergonomic and comfortable for both the wearer and baby through all ages and stages of development and are packed with features that make life with baby easier. Alta: Sitting somewhere between Omni and Lift, and therefore offering maximum flexibility, is Alta. It is a hip seat consisting of an ergonomically pre-shaped and padded seat, comparable to the Lift. However, it also comes with a removable back panel with shoulder straps, turning it quickly and easily into a more traditional baby carrier. It can be used from approximately 4 months (12lbs), up to 45lbs, and offers up to four carrying positions depending on whether you are using the back section or not. Lift: The latest addition to our carrier family, the Ergobaby Lift, is our first pure hip seat. This lightweight hip seat is perfect for the ups and downs of everyday life with an active baby or busy toddler. It features a well-padded hip belt and an ergonomic, comfy seat. It can be used from around six months (or when baby has solid head and neck control) up to 45lbs. With the Lift hip seat, you can carry your child inward facing, outward facing, and, of course, on your hips.Ergonomics and Comfort
All Ergobaby carriers are ergonomic and comfortable for both the wearer and baby, including Omni, Alta, and Lift.
Omni: A padded lumbar support waist belt and shoulder straps distribute baby's weight evenly across your upper body, making it comfortable to wear even over long periods and as the baby grows. The shoulder straps can either be worn comfortably in the H-position using the connecting strap on the back or in a crisscross across the back. For baby, the deep bucket seat encourages an ergonomic ‘spread-squat position’ and guarantees comfort during all stages of their development and in all carry positions. Omni carriers have the AGR seal of approval certifying them as ‘back friendly’.
Alta: A wide hip belt (and shoulder straps when the panel is attached) distributes baby's weight evenly to ensure comfort for you, while the pre-shaped and padded seat made of foamed plastic provides little one with secure, ergonomic support.
Lift: A wide hip belt is comfortable to wear and distributes baby's weight evenly to relieve your back, arms, and hips. A wide, curved, and cushioned seat supports baby’s hips and legs by seating them in an ergonomic position while contouring to the wearer’s body. The seat’s Keep Baby Close™ angle supports your child’s back in a natural position appropriate to their age and developmental stage.
All three products are designed to suit most body sizes and have been designated ‘hip-healthy’ by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
Ease of Use
Omni: The Omni is a full-buckle carrier that is intuitive and easy to use. With just a few clicks, it sits securely on your body - without any wrapping or tying, and is easily adjustable for different wearers, different carry positions, and as baby grows. Alta: Similar in use to the Omni with the panel attached and to the Lift without, no matter which mode your Alta is in, it’s quick and easy to put on and adjust. The removable back panel is attached simply yet securely by a combination of Velcro and a zipper. Lift: The one-buckle waistband for one-click in and out (plus always using the included safety elastic) makes the Lift our quickest and easiest carry to put on and take off.
Carry Positions
Omni: Offers all four carry positions: inward facing, outward facing, hip carry, and back carry, depending on the baby’s age and stage of development. Alta: Offers up to four carry positions: inward facing, outward facing, hip carry, and back carry, depending on whether the back panel is in use or not, and the baby’s age and stage of development. Lift: Offers three carry positions: inward facing, outward facing, and hip carry, all from around six months old, when the baby weighs at least 12lbs and has good head and neck control.Grows with Baby
Omni: Can be used from birth up to 45 lbs. This is made possible by a Velcro adjustment on the inside of the waist belt, which allows you to adjust the width of the panel between your baby's or toddler's legs as they grow. It also features an adjustable neck cushion that can be positioned according to the baby’s age and the level of support they need.
Alta: Can be used from approximately four months of age (12 lbs) with the back panel, or without from approximately six months. It can be used until your child reaches 45 lbs. It can also be used to support a newborn baby’s weight more easily in the cradle position (including while breastfeeding).
Lift: Can be used from approximately six months of age, once the baby has good head and neck control, and again up to 45 lbs. It can also be used to support a newborn baby’s weight more easily in the cradle position (including while breastfeeding), making it handy to have on hand from day one.
All three products come with the ErgoPromise™ Lifetime Warranty, which covers against material and manufacturing defects, giving you peace of mind that your carrier will be there every step of the way as your baby (or family) grows.
Fabric / Material Choices
Omni: Available in two fabric choices, breathable SoftFlex™ mesh (Omni Breeze) for superior airflow and gentle SoftTouch™ cotton (Omni Dream) for snuggly softness. Omni Dream also comes in a special edition upcycled denim and soft and timeless linen.
Alta: Ultra-lightweight, Alta offers maximum breathability thanks to SoftFlex™ Mesh material with a removable foam seat made of EPP (expanded polypropylene).
Lift: Made of Poly-Twill (like the soft cotton of the Omni Dream) with an anti-slip grip on the seat to hold baby securely and a removable foam seat made of EPP (expanded polypropylene).
Features to Make Life Easier
All three carriers are also machine washable (after removing the foam pad for Alta and Lift).
When You Might Use It
There are countless ways you might choose to use any of these three products, but here are some examples to helpfully showcase the different scenarios that each product suits best. Omni: Perfect for longer periods of carrying or for when you really need two hands free, the Omni will be there to support you from day one through the years ahead. Whether that’s for a day trip in the city without a stroller, you have a newborn who won’t be put down, you’re going on a hike, or you have a thousand things to tick off your to-do list with a teething toddler, there will be a million moments you reach for this carrier throughout your parenting journey.
Alta: This chameleon carrier’s biggest secret weapon is the removable back panel that lets it switch between being a baby carrier, from four months old, and a hip seat with all the benefits they bring.
Lift: When your little one gets to the stage where they constantly want to come up, then down, then up, then down, every few seconds it simply becomes not worth putting your full all-position baby carrier on and taking it off again each time. That’s when a hip seat becomes your best friend. It’s the ideal choice for shorter carrying times and quick, flexible changes of carrying positions, whether at home making dinner or out and about. It relieves discomfort in your back and arms and is also great for sharing with other caregivers who aren’t used to using a baby carrier but would appreciate the support: grandparents, friends, etc.