The Best Baby Carriers for Dads: 5 You'll Love

*Updated 29 Nov 2024

For decades, the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended babywearing, the centuries-old practice of holding a child in a carrier worn by a caregiver. Babywearing has countless benefits. It reduces crying, supports bonding, and promotes the baby’s ability to regulate their own physiological processes in response to their caregiver. Plus, having a hands-free way to carry your baby around allows you to get a lot more accomplished.

Can Dads Baby-Wear? Can Men Wear a Baby Carrier?

Absolutely! Babywearing is a game-changer for dads who are always on the move! With baby safely resting against their chest, dads can tackle everyday tasks like grocery shopping, running errands, or taking a walk—all while keeping their little one close. It’s the perfect way for dads to get things done without missing out on those precious bonding moments. Beyond the convenience, babywearing fosters a sense of togetherness and shared responsibility, making dads feel more connected and involved in family life.

The Best Baby Carrier for Men: What to Prioritize

The best baby carriers for dad are comfortable, easy to adjust, and safe for his baby. Different carriers offer different holds, usually front-facing and/or with the baby carried in the back. Comfort for both dad and baby is critical, so choose a carrier that’s simple to adjust and able to grow with your child.

What to Look for in a Baby Carrier for Dad

When selecting the best baby carriers for dad, there are a few guidelines you’ll want to keep in mind:

• Safety. It probably goes without saying, but your baby’s safety is paramount. Always choose products that meet or exceed Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
• Dad’s comfort. Even if it’s the safest carrier on the planet for your baby, if dad curls up in pain afterward, he likely won’t be wearing baby again. Make sure straps are padded and large enough to accommodate the big guy.
• Ease of use. Most carriers are meant for multiple adjustments as your baby grows. In addition, the best ones are simple to take on and off (without the help of another adult).
• Durability. Carriers should be made of strong fabric that can easily withstand normal wear and tear.
• Value. Does it come with accessories? Will you be able to use it until your baby is much older? Is it within your budget?

Safety Considerations When Shopping for Baby Carriers

To keep both dad and baby safe and comfortable when wearing a carrier, make sure to follow these guidelines:

• When wearing your baby, do frequent checks to make sure their nose and mouth are not blocked by your body or by fabric and that their airflow is unobstructed. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission​, infants younger than four months of age are at the greatest risk for suffocation, especially those worn in a sling-style carrier. 
• Purchase a carrier made from sturdy material that supports your infant’s back. Be sure the leg holes are small enough that they can't accidentally slip through. 
• Examine your carrier regularly for rips and tears in the seams and fasteners.
• Backpack-style carriers should have padding on the aluminum frame. This helps protect your baby if they bump against it. An adjustable canopy or sunshade is a great added bonus to provide your little one with sun protection.
• Remember that your center of gravity changes when you’re using a baby carrier. If you need to pick something up while wearing your baby, bend at the knees, not the waist. Otherwise, you risk injury to both yourself and your child. 
• Continue to use restraining straps on older babies. After five months of age, babies may become more active in the carrier and more difficult to safely manage. Make certain your baby is secure before you begin walking. 
• Avoid using a backpack or other upright positioning device if your baby has respiratory issues or was born prematurely. The design of such devices may place these babies in a position that makes it harder for them to breathe.
• Different carriers work best depending on the age and weight of your child, so always read the manufacturer's instructions to make sure you’re using them correctly.

The Best Baby Carrier for Dad: Our ANB Baby Favorites

When choosing the best baby carriers for dad, opt for one that’s both safe, comfortable, and simple to adjust. If it feels like a straight jacket and requires help from other adults to get dad and baby situated, he won’t want to use it. Take a look at some of our favorites when it comes to the best baby carriers for dads.

1. Luxe Comfort Meets Practicality: Nuna CUDL Luxe Baby Carrier

For dads who want a touch of luxury with their babywearing, the Nuna CUDL Luxe Baby Carrier is an unmatched choice. Made with ethically sourced performance cashmere, this carrier blends sophisticated style with practical function. Suitable for newborns to toddlers (up to 35 lbs), it offers four adaptive carry positions and even includes thoughtful extras like recycled cashmere baby socks and organic cotton bibs in a keepsake box.

Why Dads Love the Nuna CUDL Luxe Baby Carrier

• Four Carry Positions: Newborn mode, facing in, facing out, and back carry options for ultimate flexibility.
• Uncompromising Comfort: Padded shoulder and waist straps distribute weight evenly, while the performance cashmere is soft, moisture-wicking, and machine washable.
• Secure and Adjustable: MagneTech Secure Snap buckles, adjustable leg openings, and a versatile waistband ensure safety and a perfect fit.
• Thoughtful Details: Comes with a self-storing sunshade, infant booster, and storage bags for added convenience.

Elevate babywearing with this elegant, ergonomic carrier designed for the modern dad.

Nuna CUDL Luxe Baby Carrier

2. Adventure-Ready Comfort: The Stokke® Limas™ Mesh Baby Carrier

The Stokke Limas Mesh Baby Carrier is perfect for dads looking for breathable comfort and ergonomic support. Designed with high-performance mesh, this carrier ensures you and your baby stay cool, even on warm days. Ideal for little ones as young as one month (4 kg/8.8 lbs) and up to 15 kg (33 lbs), it grows alongside your child thanks to its adjustable base and back panel.

Why Dads Love the Stokke Limas Mesh Baby Carrier

• Versatile Carrying Options: Choose between front carrying, back carrying, and the onbuhimo style for a traditional, waist-free experience.
• Ergonomic Design: Provides a squat-spread position to ensure your baby’s comfort and healthy hip development.
• Detachable Storage Pouch: Keep essentials like keys, pacifiers, or a phone within easy reach.
• Lightweight and Compact: Easy to store and carry, making it ideal for active dads on the go.
• Durable and Washable: Made from 100% polyester, it’s machine washable for added convenience.

Whether you’re heading out for a casual walk or an exciting adventure, the Stokke® Limas™ Mesh Baby Carrier offers the comfort, flexibility, and safety you need to enjoy quality time with your little one.

Stokke Limas Mesh Baby Carrier

3. Best Baby Carrier for Hiking Dads: Explore the Outdoors with the Phil & Teds V2 Escape™ Carrier

The Phil & Teds V2 Escape Carrier is a dream come true for adventurous dads ready to hit the trails with their little ones. Lightweight yet packed with features, this carrier ensures comfort and safety for both parent and child. With its thoughtful design, it's perfect for exploring the great outdoors while keeping your baby snug and secure.

Why Dads Love the Phil & Teds V2 Escape Carrier

• Lightweight and Strong: Weighs only 6.6 lbs, offering the ideal balance of durability and portability for outdoor adventures.
• Ergonomic Comfort: Adjustable harnesses for both adult and child, plus torso-length adjustment and stabilizer straps for ultimate comfort and balance.
• Breathable Design: 3D mesh technology on the hip belt, shoulders, and lumbar support keeps you cool even on hot days.
• Deluxe Child Comfort: Features a padded 5-point harness, moldable headrest, chin pad, and soft fleece fabric for a cozy ride—even if it’s time for a nap.
• Freestanding Convenience: Integrated kick-out stand for stability during loading, with dual-side access so older kids can hop in and out themselves.
• Plenty of Storage: Comes with a detachable daypack for sharing the load, plus ample room for supplies and essentials.
• Compact Fold: Easily folds flat for storage or travel, making it perfect for weekend getaways.
• All-Weather Accessories: Includes a sun hood with a removable PVC wind and rain cover, ensuring protection from the elements.

Whether you’re planning a hike or simply spending a day exploring, the Phil & Teds V2 Escape™ Carrier delivers everything you need for a fun and safe adventure with your child.

Phil & Teds V2 Escape Carrier

4. Effortless Bonding for Dads Made Simple: Nuna CUDL 4-in-1 Baby Carrier

The Nuna CUDL 4-in-1 Baby Carrier is the ultimate solution for parents seeking a carrier that combines comfort, simplicity, and versatility. Designed with four ergonomic carrying positions, it supports your baby’s healthy spine and hip development from newborn to toddler. With thoughtful features like magnetic buckles and breathable materials, this carrier ensures an easy and secure way to keep your little one close while keeping your hands free.

Why Dads Love Nuna CUDL 4-in-1 Baby Carrier

• Four Carrying Positions: Switch seamlessly between newborn mode, facing in, facing out, and back carry as your child grows.
• Integrated Infant Booster: Provides secure and comfortable support for babies under four months, with covered locking zippers for added safety.
• MagneTech Secure Snap™: Self-guiding magnetic buckles make securing your baby quick and hassle-free.
• Breathable Mesh and Padded Straps: Keeps dads cool and comfortable, even during long outings.
• Hip-Healthy Design: Certified as ergonomic, ensuring proper support for your child’s developing hips and spine.
• GOTS™ Certified Organic Jersey: Made from toxin-free organic cotton for a soft, gentle cocoon around your baby.

The NUNA CUDL™ 4-in-1 Baby Carrier is not just functional—it’s also incredibly stylish and easy to use, allowing dads to confidently wear their baby without needing help. Whether you're at home, out for a stroll, or traveling, this carrier provides a secure and comfortable experience for both parent and child.

Nuna CUDL 4-in-1 Baby Carrier

5. Helping Dads Stay Cool and Comfortable: Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Baby Carrier

The Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Baby Carrier is dad's all-in-one solution for keeping baby close while staying cool and comfortable. Designed to grow with your child from the newborn stage (7 lbs) to toddlerhood (45 lbs), this carrier provides ergonomic support for your baby and customizable comfort for you. Whether you're on a hike, running errands, or relaxing at home, the breathable mesh fabric and versatile carry options make babywearing simple and enjoyable.

Why Dads Love the Ergobaby Omni 360 Air Mesh Baby Carrier

• All Carry Positions: Offers four ergonomic options: front-inward, front-outward, hip carry, and back carry, supporting your baby in the "M" position for healthy hip development.
• Adjustable for Growing Babies: Innovative ergonomic seat adjusts gradually to fit your baby from week 1 to 48 months.
• Ultimate Ventilation: Cool Air Mesh fabric keeps you and your baby cool, even during active outings.
• Comfortable for Parents: Lumbar support waistbelt with double adjusters prevents lower back pain, and crossable shoulder straps distribute weight evenly.
• Newborn Ready: Supports newborns (7 lbs minimum) without the need for an infant insert.
• Privacy Hood (UPF 50+): Protects your baby from the sun and offers added privacy for nursing on the go.
• Machine Washable: Easy to clean—just fasten all velcro and buckles before washing.

With its sleek design and practical features, the Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Baby Carrier ensures both you and your baby stay comfortable and supported, no matter where life takes you.

Ergobaby Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh Baby Carrier

Carry Your Baby, Create Memories: Shop ANB Baby for the Perfect Carrier

Baby carriers are more than just tools—they're gateways to hands-free adventures, tender moments, and an unbreakable bond with your little one. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, running errands, or simply enjoying some cozy time at home, the right baby carrier can make all the difference in comfort and convenience.

At ANB Baby, we’ve curated a diverse selection of baby carriers to meet the needs of modern dads. From the sleek and luxurious designs of Nuna and Ergobaby to the adventure-ready Phil & Teds Escape, our collection is crafted to support your parenting journey while keeping your baby safe and snug.

Take the next step in building unforgettable memories with your child. Browse our premium baby carriers at ANB Baby and discover the one that’s perfect for you and your growing family. Adventure awaits—carry your little one along for the ride!