Tula (often called Baby Tula) is one of the most recognized names in babywearing, known for playful prints, big collabs, and a wide range of carrier types. I’ve personally tried every current Tula carrier. The ones I reach for most are Toddler, Preschool, Lite, and Free-to-Grow. Most Tulas have a stiffer waistband that feels very supportive on hikes and longer days. The Lite is the exception with a softer, packable build.
Heads up: straps on Tula buckle carriers do not unbuckle to cross on your back. That can limit fit for slimmer frames. Back carries usually feel best for me once baby is closer to 1 year.
Real-life fit notes
Waistband feel: most Tulas are on the stiffer side. That equals support, especially with heavier kiddos or long walks, but can be less forgiving for very slim waists and can apply more pelvic floor pressure.
Newborn fit: Explore and Free-to-Grow are marketed from 7 lb. In practice, most newborns fit Explore better around 9–10 lb. Free-to-Grow tends to be the more consistent early fit.
Back carries: I get my best back carries with Tula once baby is closer to 6 months. Earlier than that I lean toward other options.
Resale: strong. Standards are often found under $50 used. Explore, Free-to-Grow, Toddler, and Preschool hold value well.
Prints and fabrics: wide variety including cotton, linen, mesh Coast versions, wrap conversions, and handwovens.
Tula carrier options
Free-to-Grow
Use: newborn through toddler without an insert
Positions: front inward, back carry
Fit notes: best option for getting a good fit with a newborn. Supportive waistband, strong resale.
Shop Free-to-Grow here: Tula Free-to-Grow
Explore
Use: baby to toddler with added forward-facing option
Positions: front inward, forward facing, back carry
Fit notes: while it says 7 lb and up, I don’t get a good fit until ~9–10 lb. One of the better outward-facing options if that’s a must.
Shop Explore here: Tula Explore
Standard
Use: classic Tula SSC
Positions: front inward, back carry
Fit notes: typically fits best from ~6 months up to ~2 years. Fixed panel, insert required under 15 lb. Very budget-friendly secondhand.
Shop Standard here: Tula Standard
Toddler
Use: bigger kids (about 2T pant size and up)
Positions: front inward, back carry
Fit notes: one of my most-used Tulas. Excellent support and structure for long outings.
Shop Toddler here: Tula Toddler
Preschool
Use: even bigger kids (around 4T pant size and up)
Positions: front inward, back carry
Fit notes: a true workhorse. Very supportive across a wide weight range. I’ve carried big kids in this one comfortably.
Shop Preschool here: Tula Preschool
Lite Compact Travel
Use: lightweight, packable option
Positions: front inward, back carry
Fit notes: works best from about 4+ months (≈12 lb). Not the most supportive for long outings, but one of my favorites for travel days. Converts into a hip bag.
Shop Lite here: Tula Lite
Half Buckle
Use: hybrid fit
Positions: multiple including front inward, back carry
Fit notes: buckle waistband with long wrap straps. More moldability than standard Tulas, which helps slimmer caregivers dial in fit.
Ring Sling
Use: quick ups and newborn snuggles
Positions: front carry, hip carry as baby grows
Fit notes: fast and portable. One-shoulder weight distribution means shorter wear times with heavy kids.
Shop Ring Sling here: Tula Ring Sling
Stretchy Wrap
Use: newborn stage
Positions: front carries
Fit notes: cozy and bonding-friendly, best for the first few months. Realistically most supportive under ~15 lb.
Shop Stretchy Wrap here: Tula Stretchy Wrap
Coast Mesh options
What it is: mesh-panel versions available in Free-to-Grow, Explore, Toddler, and Preschool.
Fit notes: noticeable difference in hot weather. Same supportive feel, better airflow.
Wrap Conversions and Handwovens
What it is: limited or specialty versions made from woven wraps, including handwovens.
Fit notes: collector-level pieces with higher resale value. Gorgeous and unique, though not necessary for most families.
Who it’s best for
| Priority | Best Tula Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Newborns | Free-to-Grow | Most consistent early fit without an insert. |
| Forward-Facing Option | Explore | Allows outward-facing once baby is ready. |
| Toddlers | Toddler | Support and structure for long carries. |
| Preschoolers | Preschool | Longevity and comfort up to ~70 lb. |
| Travel & Backup | Lite Compact Travel | Lightweight, folds into itself, easy to pack. |
| Budget | Standard | Often under $50 used, insert needed under 15 lb. |
| Quick Ups & Newborn Snuggles | Ring Sling | Fast, moldable fit, and portable. |
| Early Newborn Bonding | Stretchy Wrap | Soft, cozy, and best for the first few months. |
| Hot Weather | Coast Mesh Versions | Same carriers with breathable mesh panels for airflow. |
| Unique Textiles | Wrap Conversions & Handwovens | Higher-end, one-of-a-kind options with strong resale value. |
Before you buy
Fit on your body: Tula’s stiffer waistband is very supportive but can feel rigid on slim waists. If you’re petite, try a fit check first.
Newborn expectations: If choosing Explore for a newborn, plan for it to fit best closer to 9–10 lb. Free-to-Grow is usually the safer first pick.
Back carries: Expect them to feel best as baby approaches 6 months.
Climate: Coast versions are worth it for hot weather.
Budget: Don’t overlook resale. Standards are often under $50, and Free-to-Grow/Explore hold value.
Final Thoughts
Tula has earned its place as a favorite in the babywearing world for good reason. While I reach for other brands during the very early newborn stage, Tula has been a staple for me once my babies are a little bigger. The Toddler, Preschool, Lite, and Free-to-Grow are the ones I’ve used the most, and they’ve held up beautifully over time.