Tula Explore Vs Ergobaby Omni 360
Two of the most popular carriers on the market at the moment are the Ergobaby Omni 360 and the Tula Explore. They are from sister brands, have many of the same features, and are nearly the same price. So which one should you go for? Here are the similarities and differences between the two. The Flowery one is a Tula Explore in Vintage print, and the Grey is the Ergobaby Omni 360 in Trunks Up.
(Please note that this blog is based on the Ergobaby Omni 360 carrier. However, the features are the same for the newer Ergobaby Omni Breeze and Omni Breeze)
Both carriers are suitable from Newborn (3.2kg, 7lbs), with no need for any cushions or insert. Most people use these carriers until little one is around 2, although they are weight tested to 20kg/45lbs.
Carrying Positions
Both carriers offer a Front facing inwards, Front Facing Outwards and Back carry positions, dependant on the age and development of the baby.


The Omni 360 in addition offers a Hip Carry position.
Shoulder Straps
The shoulder straps on the Explore are used in a Rucksack, or H style. You pull forwards to tighten when wearing on your front.


The shoulder straps on the Omni 360 can be used Rucksack style, or can be crossed at the back. You pull back to tighten when wearing on your front, and forward when back carrying.



Waistbands
The waistbands on both carriers is padded at the front and are a very similar shape.
The Explore has an optional, removable lumbar support (at extra cost).

The Omni 360 has a built in lumbar support. This will be on your tummy when back carrying.



Sign up here for the Carrying Connects newsletter – regular updates on the latest slings, online courses and exclusive subscriber discounts.
Adjustment
The Explore panel adjusts widthwise using poppers. The Omni 360 adjusts with Velcro


Storage
The Explore has a built in storage pouch with Velcro closure.The Omni 360 has a removable zippable storage pouch.


Hood
The Explore has a detachable hood in the same fabic as the carrier. The Omni 360 has a built in hood in a plain fabric.


Fabric Choices
The Explore offers 100 % cotton options, and Coast options which have mesh on the Panel, and a mesh hood. The Tula brand is fashion-inspired, with a wide range of colourful and more neutral fabric options. The fabric feels softer to the touch than the Ergobaby.
The Omni 360 also offers Cotton, and Cool Air Mesh options. The Mesh version has a standard hood, and sliders instead of buttons to adjust the width of the panel for Front Facing Outwards. The colours available tend to be block colours or more subtle patterns.

The Omni 360 also offers Cotton, and Cool Air Mesh options. The Mesh version has a standard hood, and sliders instead of buttons to adjust the width of the panel for Front Facing Outwards. The colours available tend to be block colours or more subtle patterns.

Made up your mind?
So which one would I recommend? If having crossable straps and a hip carry option are important to you, you may wish to go for the Ergobaby Omni 360. For brighter fabrics and less different options/confusion go for the Tula Explore.
If you don’t want or need an option which accommodates Front Facing Outwards, there are a lot of different options which provide a great carrying position at a lower price point – check out buckle carriers here!