Good to go: 5 awesome baby carriers

This carrier’s mesh fabric improves airflow, and moisture-wicking technology keeps your baby cool (while also being water- and wind-resistant)—ideal for hot summers and active families. Wee ones carried facing inward are in the ergonomic Happy Hips posture, and you can graduate to an outward-facing front or back carry as they grow. Adjustments are within easy reach, and pockets in the waist belt let mom or dad stow things like keys or cards. Suitable from 7.7 pounds. Stokke My Carrier Cool, $250, dearbornbaby.com

This carrier offers four front- and back-carry positions, including an inward-facing carry suitable for newborns. At about four months, you can switch to the lower height position and adjust the leg openings for your growing babe. The design lets you shift the carrier from front to back without removing it. Suitable for eight pounds to three years. Baby Björn Carrier One, $250, babybjorn.com

Perfect for summer, this carrier’s fabric features UVA and UVB protection, and the hybrid design boasts the comfort of a wrap without the excess fabric. The two loops of stretch fabric, connected by a back-support band, can be worn in four front-carry positions and, once your baby has full neck and body control, two hip positions. Suitable from eight pounds. Available in July. Baby K’tan Active, $75, babyktan.com

Perfect for the heat of summer and the chill of winter, this all-season carrier features a panel that zips open to reveal breathable mesh. It boasts six carry positions—front fetal, front infant, front outward, front toddler, hip and back—all offering ergonomic leg positioning. The detachable sleeping hood supports baby’s head, and offers sun protection and nursing privacy. LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons, $210, qhousekids.com

This black-and-white reversible sling is made of soft, breathable cotton and is secured with two metal rings. At just over 200 centimetres long, the sling has extra fabric that can be used as a breastfeeding cover. It also features a roomy zippered pocket. Bonus: With every purchase, Rockin’ Baby will donate a sling to a mom in Haiti or Kenya. Rockin’ Baby Reversible Sling, $120, rockinbaby.com