All the variety of slings fall into 3 major categories
One shoulder carriers.
**Recommended site www.slingthebaby.com **
This includes pouches or ring slings.
Pros:
- easy in easy out,
- gives you upright and vertical positions,
- very comfy hip carry.
- good for nursing.
- fold up to almost nothing.
- Ring Sling is adjustable and can be shared btw parents.
Cons:
- spread the weight over one shoulder, that will get sore if worn for a long time.
- Longer learning curve.
- Back carry is possible but not the most comfortable in the long run.
- Pouch is not adjustable, if sizing is not correct the pouch will become uncomfortable or impossible to wear.
Simple pieces of cloth
**Recommended site http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5883368 **
This includes rebozos, short wraps and full-length wraps - the most versatile of the whole bunch. They can be stretchy (knit) or non-stretchy (woven).
Pros:
- super dee duper versatile - millions of wearing positions.
- spread weight over both shoulders in most positions.
- Woven wrap will last you from newborn to toddler to child stage.
- Knit wraps are very forgiving and will feel comfy even with less than perfect wrapping.
Cons:
- Longer learning curve.
- Some wraps may feel too warm in hot climate
Asian inspired
**Recommended site http://www.uhboohbahbaby.com/**
Mei-tais, onbuhimos, podageis. I would also include back pack style carriers in here. They are just fancy with their buckles :)
Pros:
- spread weight over both shoulders
- easy learning curve
- wide selection of pretty panels
- easy back carry
- adjustable and most will fit both parents
Cons:
- hip carry is possible in some but not the most comfortable
- no horizontal carry
- not to comfy to breastfeed an infant in, but older babies do fine.
SO, what is right for you? I don't know. They are like shoes, you can't have just one pair. The wrap would be your walking shoe - comfy for longer periods. Asian inspired carriers are great for back carrying. I'd say it's a fancier walking shoe :) One shoulder carriers would be your flip flop that gives you fast in and out, but you wouldn't wear it to .. Disney, for example.
Hope that helps :)
***Special Thanks to Tanya Taylor at www.wearingbabies.com***