Review: Beco Gemini - Best Soft Structured Carrier

Beco Gemini  - pattern is called Paige

In November I borrowed a Beco Gemini and set off for Seattle with Tabetha, my husband, my mom and my stepdad.  I normally use a Babyhawk meitei, but I was really impressed with the features - and stylish appearance - of this newest entrant in the soft structured carrier category and wanted to give it a really thorough test. 

Best features: ability to face baby forwards or back, fantastic headrest, safety clasps, beautiful organic, made in north america style

Worst features: steeper learning curve than a meitei, not as comfortable to sit in, having to adjust all the straps between different-sized users

I think over the course of the long weekend all of us carried Tabetha in this at one point or another, and while none of us found it as comfortable as the Babyhawk, it's definitely an excellent example of its type.  Tabby really likes facing forward, though with the added stress that places on her back and pelvis I don't let her do it for long.  The fabric is soft and washable, and comes in gorgeous patterns if plain isn't what you're looking for.  It's much more attractive than other carriers in this category.   The Gemini has two-step buckles on the waist and side that ensure a mischievous older child can't easily let baby fall out, which is a really clever idea.  I'm very happy with the quality of the construction and the price is extremely competitive at around $140cdn. 

I was easily able to breastfeed with her in the carrier, as long as I was standing up and not sitting, and she was able to sleep in it with her head supported by the flip-up headrest.

The main thing I don't like about the Gemini is something I find with all carriers of this type - the curve of the straps doesn't fit along my back perfectly, so while the straps are padded, only a small section of the strap is actually bearing the weight.

Verdict:  I think I'll always like the meitei style of carrier best, but if I were in the market for a soft structured carrier, or if the ability for Tabetha to face forward was a dealbreaker, this is the one I would get.  

I think my ideal carrier would have the body of the Gemini with meitei style straps.  I wonder how rusty my sewing skills are...

(This post inspired by Kidlets in Campbell River, who I was talking to about the Gemini earlier today!  Thanks for the fun visit, as always. )