Tula Free To Grow vs Tula Explore

 

by Beth Beaney, Executive Babywearing Consultant at LTBN
19^th January 2023

 

The choice of baby carriers is a bit mind boggling, isn't it? I mean, looking at the Tula Explore and the Tula Free To Grow, what are the actual differences between them?

They look pretty much the same, right?

Well, they're both amazing, and they're both designed by Tula (well known for their high-quality baby carriers). But there are some key differences between the two that you should consider before making a purchase, and these are what we'll look at here. Ready? Let's jump in!

 

Ok, so first thing's first. I've been a big fan of Tula for many years. And I'm sure you'll hear plenty of consultants say they're big fans of this carrier, or that carrier, for whatever reason, but when it comes to Tula, we've worked with them right since they started many moons ago - when we helped Mike and Ula (the owners of Tula) design and test their baby and toddler carriers. We were the first to bring them into the UK market and have since we've watched them grow and grow into industry leaders with a range of some of the most popular carriers in the world.

They now offer a whole range of beautiful, easy to use and comfortable carriers, not just the baby and toddler versions, but the Free To Grow and Explore versions too, and it's these two we'll focus on here.

 

The Tula Explore Baby Carrier

 

 

First, let's talk about the Tula Explore. This carrier is designed for newborn to toddlers, with a weight range of 3.2 - 20.4 kg. It features a padded waistband and adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable fit for both parent and child. The Explore also has a built-in hood to protect baby's head from the sun or wind, as well as a front pocket for storing essentials like keys or a phone. The carrier is made with a durable and breathable cotton fabric that is machine washable.

The main attraction of the Explore is that it allows for baby to face forward (see cute pic above!).

 

Shop The Explore Baby Carrier

 

The Tula Free To Grow Baby Carrier

 

 

Next, let's take a look at the Tula Free To Grow. This carrier is also designed for newborn up to toddler, with a weight range of 3.2 - 20.4 kg. It features a unique adjustable panel that allows the carrier to grow with your child, ensuring a comfortable fit at every stage. The Free-to-Grow also has a hood and a front pocket, just like the Explore. It is made with a breathable cotton fabric that is machine washable and comes in a variety of fun and vibrant designs.

 

Shop The Free To Grow Baby Carrier

 

How Does The Tula Free To Grow Compare With The Tula Explore?

 

Now we're getting into the nitty gritty! An important aspect to consider when comparing the Tula Explore and Tula Free-to-Grow is the ability to carry your child in a forward-facing position. The Tula Explore is designed to allow parents to carry their child in a forward-facing position, while the Tula Free-to-Grow is designed for only a parent-facing position. So if you'd like to carry your baby in the forward facing position, then this is definitely a consideration you'll have to take into account.

When and why would you need the forward facing position I hear you ask? The forward-facing position on the Tula Explore is a great option for parents of older babies who wish them to see the world around them. It allows them to see and interact with their surroundings, which can be stimulating and entertaining for them. Additionally, some parents find that their child is more content when they can see what's going on around them, rather than facing inwards. But do remember that this position should only be used from around 5 months to 12 months (Tula recommendations), and not near or during nap-times.

 

The Tula Explore is designed to allow parents to carry their child in a forward-facing position, while the Tula Free-to-Grow is designed for only a parent-facing position.

 

 

However, it's important to note that it is always recommended that newborns and younger babies be carried in a parent-facing position, as this position provides the most support for the child's head, neck, and spine and most importantly, it allows you to see baby and see that their chin is off their chest. The forward-facing position on the Tula Explore should only be used when the child is able to sit up unassisted, and is not recommended for younger babies.

The Tula Explore and Tula Free-to-Grow are both great baby carrier options for parents. Both are designed for comfort and convenience, and are made with high-quality materials. However, the main difference between the two is the fit for a newborn and adjustability. The Explore is best for older babies with good head and neck control as it offers the forward-facing position, while the Free-to-Grow is a better fit for newborns and infants (up to 2 years), and only offers the parent-facing position.

 

 

Another advantage of the Tula Free-to-Grow over the Tula Explore is the better fit for newborns. Because the Free-to-Grow is designed for only a parent-facing position, it allows for a more secure fit for newborns.

The adjustable panel on the carrier ensures that the baby is held close to the parent's body, which provides the necessary support for their head, neck, and spine. The Free-to-Grow's design allows for a snug and comfortable fit for both parent and baby, which is especially important for newborns who need the extra support and security. As the Free To Grow is designed for parent-facing, the strap and panel positioning offer a better overall fit for newborns. The shoulder straps are positioned in a way that means they don’t obscure baby’s face. The neat, snug panel supports baby whilst allowing you a good view of their gorgeous little face.

 

 

In all honesty, the Tula Free-to-Grow has a better fit for newborns because of its parent-facing-only position. It allows for a more secure fit, and the adjustable panel ensures baby is held close to your body and providing the necessary support for their head, neck and spine. If you are looking for a carrier that has the best possible fit for your newborn, the Tula Free-to-Grow is a better option.

 

 

Summary

 

In summary, both the Tula Explore and Tula Free-to-Grow are high-quality baby carrier options that offer great comfort and convenience for parents and babies. The Explore is designed ultimately with the forward-facing position in mind. Both carriers work for older babies and toddlers too. The Free to Grow is designed to be used from newborn and it does this really well. The Free-to-Grow's adjustability means it can be used for a long period of time and is a cost-effective option for some families. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your budget and your personal preferences.

Tula Explore

PROS - Can be used in the forward / world-facing position.

CONS - Bulky when using with a newborn & expensive.

 

Tula Free To Grow

PROS - Great fit with newborns & good adjustability.

CONS - Doesn’t offer forward facing position.

 

Choosing What's Right For You

 

There’s a significant price difference between the Explore and the Free To Grow. If you know you will definitely use the forward-facing option, then opt for the Explore, it’s worth it.

If you’re unsure whether you’ll use the forward-facing option, or you’d prefer the carrier that is the most newborn-friendly option, go for the Free To Grow.

I hope you found this article helpful. Please get in touch or email me - beth@lovetobenatural.co.uk - if you'd like any further info on our top picks of the best baby carriers or advice on any products at all.