The Wildbird ring sling baby carrier has become an increasingly popular option for parents looking for a comfortable, convenient way to keep their little ones close. But with its relatively high price tag compared to basic ring slings, many parents wonder whether the Wildbird is worth the investment. Here’s an in-depth look at the pros, cons, features, and alternatives to help you decide if the Wildbird ring sling is worth it for you and your family.
What is the Wildbird ring sling?
The Wildbird ring sling is a premium ring sling made by Wildbird Baby Carriers, a family-owned company founded in 2010. Like a basic ring sling, it’s a long piece of fabric connected by two metal rings that allows you to carry your baby in a pouch on your hip. But the Wildbird aims to improve on some of the issues with standard ring slings related to adjustability, security, and comfort through its patented features. These include:
- Rail system – The Wildbird has a rail running along the tail of the sling that allows you to quickly tighten and loosen the pouch with one hand by sliding the fabric through the rings, making it easier to get a custom fit.
- Shoulder design – Padded cushions lift the rings off your shoulder to prevent digging and distribute weight more comfortably.
- Security seat – An inner seat board adds an extra layer of fabric for head and neck support.
- Handwoven fabrics – Options like linen, cotton, or cashmere aim for maximum breathability and softness against baby’s skin.
The Wildbird can be used from newborn to 35 lbs and comes in a wide selection of colorful patterns and fabrics. It retails for around $180 – significantly pricier than basic ring sling carriers that can cost as little as $25.
What are the pros of the Wildbird ring sling?
Users praise many aspects of the Wildbird that make it stand out from cheaper sling options:
- Easy adjusting – The rail system allows you to loosen or tighten the sling with one hand until you get the perfect customized fit for you and baby. This provides more convenience and allows you to quickly adjust as baby grows.
- Superior comfort – The contoured shoulder design better distributes weight and minimizes pressure points for comfortable wearing over extended periods. The inner seat gives more head and neck support.
- Versatile positions – From newborn to toddler, the Wildbird allows multiple carry positions including facing in hug, hip, back, cradle, and inward facing out.
- High-end fabrics – The handwoven material is noticeably softer, more breathable, and higher quality than cheaper slings.
- Discreet nursing – The design allows for easy breastfeeding on the go.
- Premium look and feel – It has an elegant, high-quality style compared to the more casual look of basic slings.
In reviews, many moms say the Wildbird is the most comfortable sling they’ve ever used. The adjustability in particular makes it easy to get the perfect fit tailored to your body and keeps baby secure as they grow. For those planning to wear their baby for hours each day, the extra padding and support also helps reduce fatigue.
What are the cons of the Wildbird ring sling?
The biggest downside of the Wildbird is the steep price. At around $180, it costs almost 10 times more than some basic slings. Other potential drawbacks include:
- Steep learning curve – It takes some practice to get the tightening and positioning right compared to simpler slings.
- Limited longevity – Some report the inner seat flattens over time, reducing head support for an older baby. Most users get 1-2 years of use before needing to size up.
- Can get hot – The inner cushioning and tight fit allow less airflow than some carriers.
- Not great for sharing – Adjusting the fit each time makes it less convenient for sharing with a partner.
- Expensive replacement – If you damage the sling, repair or replacement costs are high.
While very well-made, the sling does require more care than a basic cotton or linen ring sling. Following washing instructions precisely is important to prevent damage. Some parents also dislike that the Wildbird name and logo are prominently displayed along the side.
How does the Wildbird compare to other top ring slings?
The Wildbird is pricier than other popular high-end ring sling brands like Sakura Bloom ($140-160) and Sleeping Baby Productions ($120-150). But many parents feel the extra features like the rail system and more luxe shoulder padding justify the Wildbird’s higher cost. It’s considered one of the most comfortable options for all-day babywearing.
Compared to lower cost slings like Maya Wrap ($70) and Comfy Joey ($60), the Wildbird wins for customized adjustability and premium feel. But the simpler designs are easier to use right away. Here’s a quick brand comparison:
Brand | Price Range | Key Features | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Wildbird | $170-190 | One-handed rail adjustment, cushy shoulder padding, inner seat support | All-day babywearing, adjustable custom fit for mom and baby |
Sakura Bloom | $140-160 | Lightweight linen and silk, simple ring design | Hot climates, discreet nursing |
Sleeping Baby Productions | $120-150 | Artisan quality, handwoven wraps | Traditional babywearing cultures |
Maya Wrap | $60-80 | Breathable cotton, variety of sizes | Budget-conscious parents |
Comfy Joey | $50-70 | Lightweight fabric, simple pouch | Occasional use, newborns |
Should you buy the Wildbird ring sling?
The Wildbird ring sling is an excellent choice for parents who want a high-quality sling they can wear comfortably for long periods and adjust as their baby grows. The padding, support, and customization make it stand out from cheaper slings.
However, the $180 price tag is hard to swallow for some. The complex adjustments also have more of a learning curve. For parents who just need a simple, affordable sling for occasional use, a basic lightweight pick may suffice.
Here are some key questions to help you decide if the investment is worthwhile for you:
- Will this be your primary way of carrying baby for multiple hours every day?
- Do you prefer breathable linen or prefer more cushy shoulder padding?
- Is it in your budget or would a cheaper sling work just as well?
- How long will you use a carrier (the Wildbird works up to around 2 years old)?
- Do you want the ease of nursing discreetly on the go?
- Do you need to share the carrier with a partner or caregiver?
For the parent who plans to wear their baby for long stretches daily and wants the very best in comfort, support, and adjustability, the extra cost of the Wildbird is worthwhile. You’ll also get the most value if you use it as your primary carrier for the first couple years.
But for shorter term or occasional use, you can likely find a suitable ring sling for half the price or less. Try out the Wildbird in person if possible to decide if it’s worth the investment.
Top alternatives to the Wildbird ring sling
Several more affordable slings offer a simpler, streamlined design if the Wildbird is out of your budget:
Maya Wrap Ring Sling – $70
The Maya Wrap is loved for its lightweight, breathable cotton that keeps mom and baby cooler in warm weather. The basic pouch design cinches securely and allows discreet breastfeeding. Sizing ranges from newborn to 35 lbs.
Sakura Bloom Linen or Silk Ring Sling – $140-160
For a sling nearly as luxurious as the Wildbird but $20-40 cheaper, Sakura Bloom’s linen and silk blends provide excellent softness and temperature control. The lightweight fabric is preferred for hot climates or summer use.
Sleeping Baby Productions Artisan Sling – $120-150
Handwoven by artisans for a custom look and feel, these slings rival the Wildbird’s quality. The wraps come in a variety of eclectic patterns inspired by traditional babywearing cultures around the world.
Comfy Joey Organic Cotton Ring Sling – $50-70
The most budget-friendly option, Comfy Joey offers a simple, no-frills sling design. While not as plush or supportive as the Wildbird, it gets the job done for lighter use at a fraction of the cost. An affordable choice for newborns.
A ring sling like the Sakura Bloom or Sleeping Baby can give you a similar high-end babywearing experience for less if you don’t need all the features of the Wildbird. Or go even more budget-friendly with Maya Wrap or Comfy Joey.
Other carriers to consider
While ring slings are great for the first few months, some parents may prefer other carrier types as baby grows. Here are popular alternatives to ring slings to look at:
Wraparound baby carriers
A wrap carrier made from a long piece of fabric can be worn in a variety of positions as baby grows. Many parents love the closeness of wraps. But they have more of a learning curve and can be hotter in warm weather. Some top brands are Boba, Moby, and LennyLamb.
Soft structured carriers
These offer more ergonomic support with buckles and straps to take pressure off shoulders. Many allow front and back carrying positions for babies and toddlers. Leading brands include Ergo Baby, Tula, and Lillebaby.
Mei Tai carriers
Mei Tais have a hybrid structure with shoulder straps and a waist belt like structured carriers but allow wrapping across the back panel like a wrap. Integra Baby, Catbird Baby, and BabyHawk are popular mei tai brands.
Choosing the right baby carrier often comes down to when and how you plan to use it. Seek out local babywearing groups where you can test drive different options before investing in one.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Wildbird need breaking in?
The Wildbird doesn’t require as much breaking in as some slings since the shoulder padding provides cushioning right away. But some adjustment to the fit over the first few uses helps ease any stiffness in the fabric. It will mold to your body over time.
What size Wildbird should I get?
Wildbird offers three sizes based on wearer height:
- Petite: Under 5′ 6″
- Standard: 5′ 6″ to 6′
- Tall: Over 6′
Measure from your sternum to the floor without shoes on to determine your height. Standard accommodates most wearers. But petite is better if you have a shorter torso and tall for those with longer torsos.
How long will a Wildbird last?
With proper care, a Wildbird sling should last through 1-2 years of regular use before starting to show signs of wear. Many moms report the inner seat cushion flattens over time, reducing head support for older babies around 1 year old. But the sling remains functional and adjustable beyond that time frame.
Can Wildbird be machine washed?
Wildbird recommends hand washing only in cold water to preserve the shape and materials. Machine washing risks damage from agitation. Spot clean as needed between hand washings to prolong its lifespan.
Is there a warranty?
Wildbird offers a limited lifetime warranty. They will repair defects in materials and workmanship or damage from manufacturing for the usable life of the product. This excludes normal wear and tear over time or damage from improper use and care.
The bottom line
The Wildbird ring sling justifies its higher price tag with features that enhance comfort, security, and ease of use. For parents committed to babywearing who want the very best, it’s an excellent investment. But more affordable options exist if you don’t need all the bells and whistles.
Think about your budget, how often you’ll carry your baby, and whether features like maximum adjustability matter most to you. This can help determine if the approximately $180 Wildbird has sufficient added value compared to a simpler, cheaper ring sling in the $50-150 range.
While pricier up front, the Wildbird yields dividends when used as your primary carrier for the first couple years. But less expensive slings still get the job done if you’ll use a carrier less frequently or want multiple options. Try the Wildbird for yourself before deciding if the splurge is worthwhile for you.