Do I need a hip seat or all position carrier?

Vittoria Allen
2026-03-26T11:42:06-04:00

You’ve probably noticed that we have new hip seat baby carriers – the Ergobaby Alta, the Ergobaby Lift, and the Ergobaby Upsie. Our family continues to grow. But if we already have the perfect baby carriers in our range, why are we adding new ones? Because we are dedicated to giving you maximum support through every step of your parenting journey. Whether you have a newborn, baby, toddler, or a combination of the three, this post will give you a glimpse into the differences between the Omni, Alta, Lift, and Upsie to help you choose which carrier is right for you!

The Hip Seat Carriers and All Position Baby Carrier At a Glance

Omni: Our Omni Deluxe baby carrier is our top all-position carrier. Ready from birth (about 7 lbs) through toddlerhood (up to 45 lbs), it offers all four carry positions: inward facing, outward facing, hip carry, and back carry. Ergonomic and comfortable for both wearer and baby, it’s packed with features that make life with baby easier.

Alta: Sitting between Omni and Lift, Alta is a hip seat with an ergonomically pre-shaped padded seat, plus a removable back panel with shoulder straps for traditional carrier use. Suitable from ~4 months (12 lbs) to 45 lbs, with up to four carrying positions depending on the back panel.

Lift: Our first pure hip seat, lightweight and perfect for an active baby or toddler. Usable from ~6 months (once baby has solid head and neck control) up to 45 lbs, it allows inward facing, outward facing, and hip carry positions.

Upsie: A compact sling baby carrier for easy quick ups & downs. Designed for toddlers 6–48 months (17–45 lbs) with a large ergonomic seat and cushioned adjustable shoulder strap.

Ergonomics and Comfort

All Ergobaby carriers are ergonomic and comfortable for both wearer and baby.

Omni: Padded lumbar waist belt and shoulder straps distribute weight evenly. Deep bucket seat supports baby in a ‘spread-squat position’. AGR seal certified as ‘back friendly’.

Alta: Wide hip belt and removable back panel shoulder straps distribute weight, with padded foam seat for ergonomic support.

Lift: Wide hip belt distributes weight; cushioned curved seat supports baby’s hips and legs. Keep Baby Close™ angle keeps baby’s back naturally aligned.

Upsie: Cushioned adjustable shoulder strap with ergonomic bucket seat keeps baby centered and comfortable.

Ease of Use

Omni: Full-buckle carrier.

Alta: Quick to put on with back panel attached (Velcro + zipper). Works like Omni or Lift depending on panel.

Lift: One-buckle waistband for quick in/out with safety elastic.

Upsie: One-click safety shoulder strap for fast ups & downs.

Carry Positions

Omni: Inward facing, outward facing, hip carry, back carry.

Alta: Up to four positions depending on back panel use.

Lift: Three positions: inward facing, outward facing, hip carry (from ~6 months).

Upsie: Two positions: front and hip carry.

Grows with Baby

Omni: Birth to 45 lbs with adjustable waist panel and neck cushion.

Alta: ~4 months with back panel (or ~6 months without), up to 45 lbs. Supports newborn cradle position.

Lift: ~6 months to 45 lbs. Can support newborn in cradle position.

Upsie: From 6 months with strong head/neck control. All carriers come with the ErgoPromise™ Lifetime Warranty.

Fabric / Material Choices

Omni: SoftFlex™ mesh, gentle cotton, or linen.

Alta: SoftFlex™ Mesh with removable EPP foam seat.

Lift: Poly-Twill with anti-slip seat and removable EPP foam seat.

Upsie: 100% cotton, CPSC certified.

Features to Make Life Easier

Omni: Removable storage pouch, 6 pockets, sun/privacy hood, reflective strips, hands-free carrying, easy to store.

Alta: Velcro side pocket, reflective strips, sun/privacy hood in removable panel.

Lift: Two pockets (zipper + stretchy front) for essentials. All three carriers machine washable (remove foam pad for Alta/Lift).

Upsie: Folds compactly for storage in diaper bag or under stroller.

When You Might Use It

Omni: Longer carrying periods, hands-free, city trips, hikes, or with teething toddler.

Alta: Switches between baby carrier and hip seat with removable back panel.

Lift: Ideal for quick ups & downs, short carrying times, and easy for multiple caregivers.

Upsie: Grab-and-go carrier for older babies on everyday adventures.

Baby Carrier or Hip Seat – Which Should You Choose?

Baby carrier and hip seat complement each other. The Omni Deluxe is our bestseller. Your choice of Lift, Alta, or Upsie depends on whether you want a hip seat with an optional back panel or a pure hip seat. Either way, you’re guaranteed ergonomic, comfortable babywearing from birth through toddlerhood.