Osprey Poco Soft Carrier: Is it worth it?

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Osprey Poco Soft

An Osprey Buckle Carrier?

Is the Osprey Poco Soft Structured Carrier Worth the Hype? A Certified Babywearing Educator’s Review

Osprey is a trusted name in the world of outdoor gear, known for their high-quality hiking and backpacking equipment. But when they announced the release of the Osprey Poco Soft Structured Carrier, a buckle carrier for babies, I was intrigued. As someone who loves exploring the outdoors with my kids and is also a certified babywearing educator, I had to give it a try. And guess what? It’s available at REI, which, for me, is always a bonus!

A Little Background: My Experience with Baby Carriers

Before we dive in, let me set the stage: I’ve been babywearing for about 7 years and have tried a variety of carriers. I’ve seen both the highs and lows of buckle carriers. While I love Osprey products for their quality and outdoor durability, I have a bit of a bias against carriers like the Ergo 360 (which I find uncomfortable for both the wearer and the baby). So, I went into this review with a mix of excitement and skepticism.

First Impressions

The Osprey Poco Soft Structured Carrier is available in two versions: the Poco Soft Child Carrier ($135) and the Poco LT ($120). I purchased the Poco Soft version, which is the slightly more expensive one. My initial impression? Solid construction, as expected from Osprey, and definitely designed for the outdoors.

I have used this carrier on one small hike, and my husband also gave it a try. Here’s what we found.

The Pros

  1. Quality Construction

    As expected from Osprey, the carrier feels well-made and durable. The materials seem built to withstand outdoor elements, making it a great choice for hiking and exploring.

  2. Comfortable Fit for Parents

    Both my husband and I were able to adjust the carrier easily. It was comfortable for both of us, with a supportive waist belt and lumbar support that made it feel secure while hiking.

  3. Great Pockets

    I love a good pocket, and this carrier doesn’t disappoint. There’s a pocket under the baby’s bottom and another on the panel with the hood. Perfect for stashing small essentials.

  4. Affordable Option

    Compared to other buckle carriers like the Ergo 360, the Osprey Poco comes in at a significantly better price point. At $135, it’s a solid deal, especially when compared to other high-end carriers.

The Cons

  1. Limited Seat Adjustment
    The seat size isn’t adjustable enough for older babies. The carrier is best suited for babies between 9-12 months and can support up to 33 lbs, but it’s not great for extended use beyond that. It doesn’t offer the same level of knee-to-knee support as other carriers.

  2. Not Size Inclusive
    While it fits me well (I’m a women’s xs) and my husband , it was found it a bit tight, especially around the waist. He’s typically a men’s M, and it barely extends 2-3 inches past that size. Larger frames might find this a bit restricting.

  3. Bulky Waistband
    While the lumbar support is great, the waistband can feel a little bulky, especially for shorter hikes.

The Verdict: Would I Recommend It?

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by the Osprey Poco Soft Structured Carrier. While it has its limitations (especially when it comes to adjustability and size inclusivity), I found it to be a more comfortable and better fit compared to some other carriers I’ve used in the past, such as the Ergo 360.

What I love most about it:

  • The comfort for both me and my husband
  • The quality and durability
  • The price point that makes it a great choice for families on a budget who still want something reliable and comfortable.

As for the two versions, the Poco Soft is great for families who want a more robust carrier with added features, while the Poco LT (the lighter version) could be a better option if you’re looking for something a bit more minimalist. I haven’t tried the LT personally, but based on Osprey’s other products, it seems to be geared toward those who prioritize lighter weight.

For the cost, comfort, and overall quality, this carrier is a solid buy—especially if you’re an outdoor-loving family on the go.

Ready to try it out? You can find the Osprey Poco Soft Structured Carrier at REI or visit their website for more details. Happy babywearing and adventuring!

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