Kelty
is a brand that started off with adult backpacks way back in the 50s. Using
their experience of making backpacks, Kelty began introducing its line of baby
backpack carriers in the 90s. Unlike the common range of baby backpack carriers
out in the market, Kelty’s baby backpack carriers tend to be larger and
roomier, suitable for carrying older children comfortably.
The
Kelty K.I.D.S FC 1.0 Frame Child Carrier is one such product in its series of
carriers. The FC Frame Child Carrier is very sturdy and capable of carrying up
to 50 Ibs of weight. In comparison, common baby backpack carriers have a weight
limit of up to 30 Ibs. To accommodate larger children up to 50 Ibs in weight,
Kelty’s FC Frame Child Carrier is designed to be roomier with plenty of leg
space for both the child and the parent. While the carrier carries up to 50
Ibs, you may not. One should take care to build up one’s back and hip strength
before actually attempting to carry such a heavy child on a long trip.
Even
with a strong back, 50 Ibs can be a demanding load for anyone. Luckily the FC
Frame Child Carrier comes with a smart auto deploy kick stand that allows
putting down the carrier easily to take a rest. The auto deploy kick stand
comes out automatically when you need to lay down the backpack, allowing the
backpack to sit stably and safety.
The
hinges used on the FC Frame Child Carrier are also designed with patented
technology that prevents pinching of your or your child’s fingers.
The FC series of baby backpack carriers comes in various
add-ons but these add-ons are largely not found in the leanest model, the FC
1.0. The FC 1.0 is of course, cheaper than the models but it does not have quick
access to items other than the hand phone via a pouch on the should straps.
This makes reaching for bulkier items like a water bottle a chore. The user
will have to take off the backpack carrier in order to reach for large items
behind.
Another
downside to the FC 1.0 Frame Child Carrier is the fact that it does not
together with the sun canopy. It is still possible to attach the sun canopy
add-on onto the backpack, although the add-on will have to be purchased
separately.
Some
users also have issues with the lack of padding at the waist straps, making it less
comfortable for carrying. But other users have commended on the same feature,
claiming that less padding makes it more breathable and therefore comfortable
on hot days.
Kelty’s
backpack carriers are light-weight and well designed to suit most parents,
especially for parents with larger and heavier babies. The leanest version of
the FC series is usually sufficient for most users. But for parents who are
thinking of using their carriers for longer distance travel or simply like to
be carrying more things on trips, they may wish to consider the other backpacks
with more add-ons and carrying space.