Wildride Toddler Carrier Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

Disclaimer: This product was provided by Wildride and reviewed independently

We've all been there: the airport dash with a suitcase and boarding pass, while your toddler insists on exploring every shiny surface. Or maybe it's a "quick" trip to the local shops, which, let's be honest, is never truly quick with a little one. That's why the Wildride Toddler Carrier caught our eye – a stylish hip carrier promising to make those moments a bit smoother. But does it actually deliver? We took ours for a test run in Brazil and Argentina and in this review, we'll find out if it's a game-changer for daily life or if it gathers dust in the back of a cupboard. Let's get into it!

Ease of Use and Design: As Simple As It Looks?

The Wildride toddler carrier certainly leans into minimalism, and that's immediately apparent in its design: a broad, padded shoulder strap and a firm, contoured hip seat. This simplicity is, in theory, a huge plus for busy parents. The concept of quick 'ups and downs' is appealing, especially when you're dealing with a toddler who's constantly shifting between wanting to walk and wanting to be carried. The ability to switch sides—a thoughtful touch for both left- and right-handed users—adds a layer of flexibility.

To get your toddler in, you use a 'lift and tuck' manoeuvre to position them onto the hip seat. It might seem a little unusual at first, especially with a wiggly little one, but honestly, you'll quickly find it becomes second nature. It's simply a matter of getting the fabric seat comfortably positioned and securing the straps.

The appeal of the Wildride is that it allows you to quickly get your child in and out, making short trips much easier. The lack of multiple buckles and complicated adjustments mean that it is easier than many other carriers. The idea is that you can focus on your child, not on the carrier.

Rating 5/5

Style and Aesthetics: A Fashion-Forward Carrier

The Wildride toddler carrier stands out with its sleek, modern design – in combination with its relatively high price point it becomes a statement piece, not just a functional tool. The clean lines and minimalist aesthetic effortlessly complement any outfit, elevating your parenting style.

You have a choice of either cotton or linen, offering breathability for warm climates and added durability for everyday wear. But the true beauty lies in the diverse range of colours and prints, from earthy tones to vibrant designs that inject a dose of playful energy into your day. There's a Wildride to match every unique personality (being married to a Swede we naturally ended up with the sand-coloured linen carrier!). This focus on style transforms the Wildride from a mere carrier into a coveted accessory.

Rating 5/5

Weight Distribution and Comfort: It’s Hip to Look After Your Back

The Wildride toddler carrier is suitable for children aged 9 months to 4 years, up to a maximum weight of 20kg. The core design philosophy centres around ergonomic weight distribution, evident in the broad shoulder strap and solid hip seat, which immediately shifts your child's weight away from your back and arms onto your hip and shoulder.

It's worth noting that for extended use, such as long hikes or full-day outings, a full back carrier would provide more comprehensive support. The Wildride has been designed for short, on-the-go moments and it effectively redistributes weight, making it a comfortable and convenient option for quick errands, travel, and navigating busy spaces.

Based on our initial use, it was comfortable for about 20-30mins, after which we could switch carrying sides, or more accurately, put her down and let her roam around!

Rating 4/5

Airport Adventures and Travel Triumphs: Your Secret Weapon

As you can imagine, we spend a lot of time in airports and toddlers are masters of unpredictable behaviour in this setting. Honestly, for people who fly 25+ times a year, the Wildride toddler carrier is our secret weapon. Quickly pop your child in and out for queues and security checks, then fold it neatly into your carry-on. Instead of your toddler dragging their feet as you try to rush to the gate, you can put them in the Wildride and transform this part of their journey into a delightful sightseeing tour of the shops and planes as you briskly make it to the gate.

Navigating a new city? The Wildride excels in crowded streets, bustling markets, and captivating museums, allowing you to explore with confidence. It's perfect for keeping them close and safe in busy places where you don't want them to roam around by themselves.

Rating 5/5

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth the Splurge?

Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the price. The Wildride toddler carrier occupies a more premium price point, with prices ranging from £79-£149 depending on print and material. It's an investment, no doubt about it. When considering the cost, it's essential to weigh it against your lifestyle and usage patterns.

For frequent travellers and urban parents who prioritise convenience and style, the price tag can easily be justified. If you're constantly navigating airports, bustling city streets, or simply making frequent short trips to the supermarket, the ease of use, lightweight design, and stylish aesthetic make it a worthwhile investment. However, if you're a budget-conscious consumer or only need a carrier for occasional use, then this carrier might not be for you.

Ultimately, whether the Wildride carrier is worth it or not will depend on your individual priorities. If you're seeking a stylish, convenient, and travel-friendly carrier and are willing to invest in premium quality, the Wildride could be a valuable addition.

Rating 3.5/5

Summary

Pros:	Cons:
Simple design for effortless use – quick and easy to use	Premium product with a relatively high price point
Travel friendly	Not suitable for extended use (the maximum comfort time we found was 30mins before we needed to switch sides)
Effective weight distribution
Comfortable and elevated position for the child
Compact and portable design
Stylish and aesthetically pleasing

Conclusion: Your Stylish Sidekick for Everyday Adventures

The Wildride carrier is stylish, practical and easy to use, offering freedom and flexibility when on the move with a baby/toddler. Its intuitive design makes those quick 'ups and downs' a breeze, perfect for navigating busy airports, spontaneous supermarket runs, or exploring new destinations.

While it's best suited for short trips, its ability to free you from the pram and the back (and arm!) pain of carrying your toddler everywhere is undeniable. In essence, the Wildride provides a liberating option for parents wanting to embrace spontaneity and navigate their day with a little less bulk and a lot more ease.

For an exclusive 15% off your Wildride carrier, use the code TODDLERTRAVELDIARIES at checkout!