Baby Wearing for Big People

[Kimberly Crews]

So I'm a huge proponent of baby wearing, especially during those first few months after birth. The trouble is that my husband and I are super sized people. I'm statuesque being nearly 6 feet and over 200 when I'm not pregnant and the hubby was a competitive olympic weight lifter 20 years ago. The challenge is finding a system that works for the both of us as we are shaped very differently. I tried the Ergo on and it was too short for me and wouldn't fit around his shoulders (it was quite funny to see). We have a wrap and are hoping to get a sling with enough extra tail to accommodate our different torsos.

Has any one had any luck with different wearing techniques and brands for the above average build?

[Sarah W]

I've heard of lots of body types that are not suited to the Ergo, so you are not alone. I think you are on the right track with wraps (probably get the longest length available) b/c they are the most versatile for various carries and body types. The long ring sling should also give you adjustability.

have you considered Mei Tais at all? Probably go with extra long straps if you do...

[Kimberly Crews]

Thanks, Sarah! I had a colleague that used to make Mei Tais but had totally forgotten about this style. This may be perfect for my hubby too.

[ElectraLeslie]

I use a wrap modeled after the Moby and it works great for my husband and I both. We are also larger people and have different torsoes. I did not buy mine however I made it out of 5 yards of cotton nit. I would reccomend getting 5 1/2 to 6 yards of material though. 5 barely works for us and we sound a little smaller than you guys. I just bought the 5 yards, folded in half (b/c it's like 5 foot in width as well) and sewed it together, found the center and made a mark so it would be easy for everyday use. I recommend doing a google search for wearing your baby to learn how to wrap your wrap! Anyway, hope that wasn't too confusing. Hope it helps as well.

[Kimberly Crews]

Awesome - Then I can get one in black for him and maybe one in a fun color for myself, and I have a better chance of knowing it will fit. Thanks for the idea.

[Laura Anne Farley]

I carry Hotslings and they come in different sizes. They are sized to fit the mom/dad. My site is www.babybootywear.com. I think I have a 6 in the Ana print. My sister has all my slings right now but she is sending them back to me.