You may have seen the Thule name dotted around here are there, most likely on some roof bars or pieces of luggage. The brand started around 75 years ago in the heart of Sweden; their mission since then has been constructing the highest quality automotive accessories, luggage and child accessories to accompany you in day-to-day life. Their range of Child Carriers are amongst some of the most thought out and highest quality available, with an emphasis on safety, durability and unrivalled comfort.
The Thule Sapling Elite sits at the top of their range in terms of features and comfort. Let's talk about the comfort first, shall we? Simply by looking at the pictures, you can spot immediately the ultra-padded and pre-shaped hipbelt. This hipbelt features a breathable mesh layered over a thick section of foam to take the weight off your back and onto your hips; this not only feels lighter and more comfortable, but is far better for your back. Thule also understand that not everyone is the same height (shock), and that not everyone wants to purchase a child carrier which costs triple digits which only fits a certain height of adult. Their back system and hipbelt are both fully adjustable; this is carried out by simple velcro straps on the hipbelt and a sliding panel on the back system (see video below), this allows almost anyone to fit the carrier comfortably. If this doesn't sound comfortable enough, I'll reassure you with the fact that an inch-thick layer of foam is placed between the shoulder straps and between the hipbelt straps to completely avoid chafing. A breathable suspended mesh is lined throughout the rest of the back.
One thing you're not short of in the Sapling Elite is pockets. Two mesh pockets feature on the outside of the hipbelt straps to take snacks or a phone, a hydration sleeve is included on the main section of the bag to take 2 litres of water, a massive section on the lower half of the bag takes clothes, water and other baby-type things, while an included removable backpack stores items which are required quickly or those that need to be separated. This is ideal for travel purposes as the backpack can fasten directly to the bag during flights or train journeys, then simply remove and share the weight out between yourselves once you arrive.
The child seat itself is lined with a plush, soft to the touch fabric which can be adjusted in height to suit the size of the child; the weight of the child is also distributed evenly thanks to Thule's clever inner thigh support system. When your child is safely in place inside the pack, soft stirrups hold their feet in place, however these can be removed to let them move about freely (not recommended with little muddy boots!). A stowable sunshade is easily and quickly accessible to protect them from the sun during long walks in direct sunlight.
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Fully adjustable back panel and hipbelt allow it to fit almost anyone
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Huge array of pockets
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Removable backpack
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Included mirror lets you monitor your child
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Straps allow you to pull the child closer
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Stowable sunshade
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Plush, height adjustable child seat
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Dual access loading allows you to load the child from the side or top
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Removable stirrups
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Breathable back panel
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Super durable fabrics