Deuter Kid Comfort Child Carrier
The Deuter Kid Comfort is the child carrier that set the standard for the rest.
Pros
Easy to adjust between multiple people
Side entry means less lifting
High resale value
Cons
$$$
Summary
Hiking with children isn’t for the faint of heart, so comfort – for everyone – is paramount. As the name suggests, the Deuter Kid Comfort keeps kids and the people carrying them as comfortable as possible.
The kid gets a sweet ride in a mesh cabin covered by a sun shade with a soft (and washable) front pillow for naps and chewing. The adult gets mesh ventilation that cuts down on sweating, excellent weight distribution, and tons of carrying space.
This is the carrier I used, and I recommend it. I found the frame easy to stand up, and also liked the side entry system that requires getting just one squirming leg into place. The kid seat can be adjusted for the babe’s comfort and yours. I’m also convinced that the adjustable footrests made naps happen faster than leaving feet dangling.
Taking turns with the carrier is easy with the sliding system that adjusts back length. It’s easy enough to switch back and forth on the trail.
The only thing I would have done differently is start hiking with my child earlier. The Kid Comfort can be used as soon as a child can sit upright independently. Many brands have additional age and weight requirements. My child wasn’t up for being carried all the way until the 48-pound weight limit, but yours might.
The initial price of this pack is steep but also comparable to many competitors. I can attest that the resale value is high, and you should be able to recoup a good portion of what you paid.
Who Should Buy?
Anyone looking to comfortably carry their kid around.
Check out the Active for a lower price and a smaller SL version.
There is also the Deuter Kid Comfort Pro with a longer carrier back for taller kids, a wider sun shade, and even more storage capacity from an included daypack.