I have now been able to use the Deuter Kid Comfort III for a couple of years. I have used this carrier on endless local hikes as well as through National Parks. I have used it in the summer and I have gone snowshoeing with it in the winter. It has made taking the kids to the outdoors a much more enjoyable experience for them and me. I have been impressed by how well it handles the weight of the kids. I have been using it with my boy since he was just over 1 and he still loves to ride in it at 3. It is rated to hold up to 48.5lbs total weight, which includes child and gear.
There are a few key features I like about this pack. The first is the large compartment under your kid. There is plenty of room to pack extra diapers, clothes, snacks, and some water. There are also many other small pouches and places to stash extras. My wife lives the mesh pouches on the sides and back for easy drink access. The other great feature is for your kid. It has a sun shade. The shade is useful when hiking anytime of the year. It is big enough to keep your kid shaded. The shade has the ability to zip into a punch if not in use, but I hardly ever put it away.
Overall this is a sturdy kid carrier. The hip belt transfers the weight nicely to the hips and can easily adjust to fit different size people. It is also hydration system compatible. Deuter does make two other kid carriers like this one at lower price points. One of the big disadvantages about the other two is that there is no shade cover. The only disadvantage to this carrier is the price. It is one of the most expensive, but worth every penny in my book. I would definitely recommend this to friends. Now I have a little girl to take hiking, but my boy doesn’t want to give up his ride quite yet.
SPECS:
- Volume: 1200 cubic inches
- Torso: 15-21 inches
- Weight: 6 lbs. 13 oz.
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 34 x 15 x 13 inches
- System: Vari-Quick
- integrated sun roof
- double lifting points
- new contoured hip belt with forward pull adjustment
- large storage pockets
- hydration system compatible
- removable and washable chin pad
- new back system with 3D air mesh
- holds child and gear up to 48.5 lbs.
- includes child dimensioned safety belt with innovative height adjustment
- Carrying Capacity = 48.5 lbs.
You can learn more at http://www.deuterusa.com/