November 29, 2006

Carry On

You love being out and about with your baby, but sometimes it feels as if you're tackling Mt. Everest instead of the latest exhibition at MoMA. You can pile everything into a stroller (the urban parent's SUV), but when you want to go on foot, it's a real challenge.

A hip carrier would be ideal, but most of them are murder on your back and shoulders – and you're still left holding the diaper bag. The new PortaMEe baby carrier solves both problems with a stylish unisex design that really works. While your baby sits comfortably on your hip, a waist strap with built-in lumbar support distributes his weight and eases the strain on your neck and shoulders.

Clever, well-placed pockets eliminate the need for a separate diaper bag. A zippered pack covers the lumbar support and holds diapers, wipes and a changing pad, while a shoulder pouch handles little things like your cell phone, keys and pacifier. There's also an easy-access zippered wallet on the main flap. Optional add-ons include an insulated bottle holder, which attaches to the diaper bag holster-style, and a snap-on hooded cape to protect baby from the elements. With everything (including baby) strapped to your body, you keep both hands free.

And with your baby sitting up where he can see the world, there's a chance he'll stay happy through the day's outing – sorry, expedition.

Available online at portamee.com.