This year Baby Bjorn celebrates their 35th anniversary. Yep, for more than three decades devoted parents have been sporting their spawn as a proud accessory. To mark the momentous occasion, the Swedes behind the Baby Bjorn decided to splash out with a vibrant update of the original version. We put the newest carrier, Baby Bjorn Original in new Spirit colorways ($79.95), up against the existing Baby Bjorn models to see which version would be deemed the hottest baby gift of ‘08.
Everyone adores the Bjorn. Guys who can’t stomach a floral sling gladly don their tots in these Swedish gadgets. Sporty moms that never mastered the knots and ties required for fabric carriers love the Bjorn’s simplicity. If you love the Original, you’re in luck. This latest model doesn’t mess with success. The Spirit features the same idiot-proof features that make us mad for this carrier (all adjustments are made from the front, the Bjorn can be opened without waking baby, etc.).
What’s new? Now style-obsessed caregivers can take it up a notch thanks to the Bjorn's glam makeover. The Original Spirit is offered in eight trendy colors: Pink Passion, Orange Flame, Red Heart, Green Energy, Blue Moon, Gray Pearl, Black Diamond and White Angel. With the advent of extremely individualized names such as Apple, Pilot and Brooklyn we expect today’s babes to start showing strong preferences for high style at a tender age.
Pros: Eight fashion colors!
Cons: You’ll have to wait a bit. The line hasn’t rolled out to most stores.
Best for: Fashion-savvy parents.
Original: The item that started the baby-wearing trend. ($54.99)
Pros: Practical front-carrier can be used on babies from 8lbs to 25lbs (basically the first year).
Cons: Only the most basic colors are available at this low-price.
Best for: Parents on a budget who don’t crave cool.
Air: Compact and lightweight. ($99.95)
Pros: Folds up into a compact mesh pocket.
Cons: Lacks lower back support.
Best for: Traveling with baby in tow—leave the stroller at home.
Active: Designed to carry heavier children for long stretch of time. ($119.95)
Pros: Lumbar support saves aching backs on long walks or hikes.
Cons: More adjustments necessary to get a perfect fit.
Best for: You can walk for miles in complete comfort.
Synergy: Space age, mesh model keeps parent and baby cool. ($149.95)
Pros: No more sweaty babies or soggy backs on Mom or Dad.
Cons: Pricey. Plus, funky Battlestar Galactica look isn’t for everyone.
Best for: Anyone carrying a baby in sweltering heat (think a day at Disney in August).
