Ergobaby products have a reputation for quality, and their Original and 360 carriers are both in high demand.
While there are a lot of similarities between the two, I’ve investigated the differences between the Ergobaby Original and Ergobaby 360 to see how the two stack up.
Knowing the differences can help you make your best choice.
In this article:
Side by side comparison
| Ergobaby Original | Ergobaby 360 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Check price | Check price |
| Our Rating | 4.25 | 4.75 |
| Weight limit | 7-45 lbs, 7-12 lb babies require infant insert | 7-33 lbs, 7-12 lb babies require infant insert |
| Color options | 8 | 14, 4 of which feature cool air mesh |
| Washing instruction | Secure buckles, machine wash cold, dry on delicate cycle, remove when seams are still wet | Secure buckles, machine wash cold, dry on delicate cycle, remove when seams are still wet |
| Material | 100% cotton | 100% cotton with Oeko-Tex certified Cool Air Mesh on selected models |
| Manufactured | China/Vietnam/India | China/Vietnam/India |
| Hip healthy | Yes | Yes |
| Carrying Positions | Front (inward facing), Back | Front (inward facing), Front (outward facing), Back |
Ergobaby Original: A quick overview
Key features
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps
- Privacy and weather hood for baby
- Lumbar support in all carry positions
- Extra large storage pocket
- Supports children from birth to age 4 (infant insert needed from 7-12 lbs)
Check parent reviews on Amazon
Taking a closer look
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps: The soft padding on the straps of the Ergobaby Original make sure you remain comfortable, even when wearing the carrier for a long period of time. They don’t dig into your skin or leave unsightly marks, and, no matter which carry position you’re using, they’re still small enough not to be bulky. Nor do they interfere with breastfeeding, which is a huge plus.
- Privacy and weather hood for baby: When your baby is breastfeeding or sleeping, being able to cover up with a privacy hood will give you both more comfort. It’s also useful on very sunny days, as little heads need to be protected from those harmful rays, while the hood’s baby-friendly fabric has a UPF of 50+.
- Lumbar support in all carry positions: The Ergobaby Original offers three carrying positions — front inward-facing, rear and hip — with lumbar support in all positions. This prevents back and shoulder strain, allowing you to stay comfortable and active while carrying your baby. Lumbar support is especially important if your body is recovering from pregnancy and childbirth, both of which can cause lasting back pain.
- Extra-large storage pocket: Stashing necessities for both you and baby is easy with an extra-large storage pocket that zips for security. It’s the perfect place to put the car keys during a stroll in the park, stash some extra snacks, or even a pack of wipes. Extra storage is always handy as part of your carrier, especially if it keeps your hands free.
- Supports children from birth to age 4: The age range on the Ergobaby Original distinguishes it from other similar carriers, which typically don’t accommodate children over age 2 or 3. It’s extremely sturdy, and great for growing with your kids. It should be noted that 7-12 lb babies will require an infant insert, sold separately.
Related: Boba 4G vs Ergo Baby Carrier (2021 Comparison Guide)
ErgoBaby Original in Action
Ergobaby 360: A quick overview
Key features
- Padded shoulder straps, lumbar support and privacy hood, as featured on the Original model
- Offers Cool Air Mesh on some models
- Offers front-facing carry option
- Adjusts easily to fit a variety of body types
- Wide wraparound waistband offers comfortable wear after a c-section
Check parent reviews on Amazon
Taking a closer look
- Cool Air Mesh: Keeping your baby happy on a hot day can be difficult, but the Cool Air Mesh on some models of the Ergobaby 360 is great for keeping baby cool and comfortable. The ventilated carrier makes sure heat isn’t trapped against baby’s delicate skin, causing discomfort, overheating, and rashes. This is especially useful if you’re an active momma, as you can go ahead with your workouts while wearing your baby and be confident you’re using a carrier which lets you do this comfortably.
- Offers front-facing carry option: Unlike the Ergobaby Original, the 360 lives up to its name and allows you to perform front, front-outward facing, hip and back carries. The Original doesn’t feature front outward-facing, which is something to consider if that’s one of your preferred carrying methods.
- Adjusts easily to fit a variety of body types: Being able to share a wearable carrier makes life at home a lot easier, and the 360 allows just that — it’s adjustable, and the range is significant. The waistband can be adjusted from 26″ to 52″, and the shoulder straps from 28 3/4″ to 46 3/4″. This means it’ll suit both larger and smaller carriers, making it perfect for sharing between mom and dad.
- Wide waistband for post c-section comfort: Recovering from a c-section is painful and takes time, so it’s essential that moms choose baby gear that works for them during their recovery period. The Ergobaby 360 has a wide comfort waistband that’s perfect for post c-section moms who may still be experiencing pain, or other discomfort, at their incision site. The wideness of the band prevents it from digging in or riding up and causing pain.
Related: Ergobaby 360 vs Tula Baby Carrier (2021 Comparison Guide)
ErgoBaby 360 in action
Which carrier is right for you?
After taking a deeper look at both the Ergobaby Original and the Ergobaby 360, you should be closer to knowing which one will fit better with your lifestyle.
I picked the Ergobaby 360 (check price on Amazon), because the wide waistband, adjustability range, and front forward-facing carry option make it the better choice for me.
Although these two carriers have a lot in common, they’re not exactly the same, and knowing the facts will be the first step towards making your best choice.
