Tula Free-To-Grow Vs Explore: Which One Is Better?

As a parent navigating the world of baby gear, I found the baby carrier decision to be one of the most overwhelming. My search quickly narrowed down to two titans from the same beloved brand: the Tula Free-to-Grow and the Tula Explore. They look similar, they have overlapping features, and yet they serve distinct purposes. I’ve spent countless hours wearing both, and my goal here is to share my analytical breakdown to help you figure out which one is the right investment for you and your little one.

A Brief Comparison Table

My Experience With Tula Free-To-Grow

When I first held the Tula Free-to-Grow (FTG), my initial impression was one of beautiful simplicity. I had the “Coast” model, which features a large mesh panel, and living in a warmer climate, this was a huge selling point. The fabric felt soft but incredibly sturdy. The first time I put my newborn in it, I was a nervous wreck, but the instruction manual and the carrier’s design made it surprisingly straightforward.

The magic of the FTG is truly in its adjustable panel. On the inside of the waistband, there are three snap settings.¹ For my tiny 8-pounder, I set it to the narrowest width. This created a perfect little seat that supported him from one knee pit to the other, achieving that crucial “M” position that all babywearing experts talk about. As he grew, I simply unsnapped and widened the seat to the middle, and eventually, the widest setting. It felt like the carrier was growing with him, which is exactly what the name promises.

I used the FTG for everything: grocery store runs, contact naps while I worked at my standing desk, and long walks to soothe him during the witching hour. The padded shoulder straps were comfortable, and the wide, supportive waistband took most of the weight. It felt like a secure, cozy hug for him and a back-saver for me. I never once missed the forward-facing option in those early months; he was either asleep or perfectly content snuggling into my chest. It became my go-to “workhorse” carrier.

Pros Of Tula Free-To-Grow

• Incredible Adjustability From Birth: This is the FTG’s superpower.² The ability to change the seat width with three simple snap settings means you get a truly custom, ergonomic fit from 7 pounds all the way to 45 pounds. Unlike older carriers (like the Tula Standard), you don’t need a separate, bulky, and often sweaty infant insert. This not only saves money but makes the carrier usable and safe from day one. The panel height also adjusts with a simple strap-pull system at the top, allowing you to cinch it down for a tiny newborn or extend it fully to support a sleeping toddler’s head. This granular level of adjustment ensures optimal “M-position” and C-curve spine support at every single stage, which was my number one priority for healthy hip development. It eliminates that awkward “in-between” phase where a baby might be too big for an insert but too small for the full panel.
• Lighter And Less Bulky Design: Because the FTG is not engineered to support a forward-facing-out position, it lacks the extra structural padding and bulk that the Explore has. This makes a noticeable difference in day-to-day use. The FTG feels more like a soft, flexible second skin. It’s easier to fold up and shove into a diaper bag. In warmer weather, this “less is more” design is a significant advantage. The standard cotton and linen models are already breathable, but the “Coast” version with its mesh panel is, in my opinion, one of the coolest soft-structured carriers on the market.³ This streamlined feel also makes it feel less cumbersome for the wearer, especially if you are more petite. It just feels… simpler.

• Superior Simplicity And Ease Of Use: There are two positions: baby facing in on your front, and baby on your back (once they have strong head control).⁴ That’s it. For many parents, including myself, this is a feature, not a bug. There’s no guesswork about when to try forward-facing, how to do it, or how long is safe. The FTG is designed to do two things perfectly. This simplicity means I was able to get comfortable with the carrier very quickly. Buckling the waistband, popping the baby in, and tightening the straps became second nature in a matter of days. It’s an incredibly intuitive carrier for a first-time parent who just wants to get their baby secure and get on with their day.
• Amazing Comfort For Long-Term Wearing: The combination of the signature Tula padded shoulder straps and the very wide, firmly padded waistband is a recipe for comfort. I’ve worn my child for two-hour naps in the FTG without any shoulder or back pain. The waistband is the star here; it distributes the baby’s weight so effectively across your hips and core that it prevents all the strain from landing on your shoulders. Because the carrier is less bulky, I found it easier to get a “close to body” fit, which is key for comfortable, long-duration carrying. The baby feels like an extension of you, rather than a separate weight pulling on you. The softness of the cotton also means no chafing or rubbing for me or the baby.

Cons Of Tula Free-To-Grow

• Absolutely No Forward-Facing Option: This is the single biggest “con” and the primary reason a parent would choose the Explore instead. If you have your heart set on letting your baby face the world from your chest, the FTG simply cannot do it. It is not designed for it, and attempting to do so is unsafe. For some babies, particularly in the 5-10 month range, they enter a “nosy” phase where they crane their necks and fight to see what’s going on. This can be frustrating when they are on your front. While a back carry (which the FTG does beautifully) or a hip carry (which the FTG does not officially support) can solve this, some parents specifically want that front-outward position for zoo trips or family gatherings. If this is a non-negotiable feature for you, the FTG is not your carrier.
• Shoulder Straps Cannot Be Crossed: The Tula FTG is designed with “H-style” straps, meaning they go straight over your shoulders like a backpack and are connected by a chest clip (or back clip, depending on how you’re wearing it).⁵ The straps are permanently sewn to the carrier body and cannot be unclipped to cross in an “X” shape across your back. For many people, this is perfectly comfortable. However, for wearers with narrow or sloping shoulders, H-style straps can have a tendency to slip off. Crossing the straps is a popular way to get a more secure fit and distribute weight differently. Competing brands like Ergobaby and Lillebaby often offer this feature, so its absence on the FTG is a notable downside for those who prefer an “X” fit.
• Back Carry Can Be Tricky To Master Alone: While the FTG is a fantastic back carrier once the baby is in, getting the baby onto your back by yourself can be intimidating. The most common methods (like the “superman toss” or the “hip scoot”) require practice, confidence, and a bit of bravery over a soft surface like a bed. Because the straps don’t cross, you have to secure the chest clip behind your head while balancing the baby, which can be a bit of an arm-yoga maneuver. It’s certainly doable, and thousands of parents do it every day, but it’s not as simple as just slinging them on. This isn’t unique to the FTG—it’s a challenge for most soft-structured carriers—but it’s a point of friction worth mentioning for a parent who plans to do a lot of solo back carrying.
• Panel Height Adjustment Is Less Structured: The FTG’s panel height adjusts with a webbing strap and a buckle on each side.⁶ You pull it to shorten the panel for a small baby and let it out for a taller child. This is fantastic for getting an exact height. However, it’s less “structured” than the pillow-style adjustment on the Explore. This means two things: first, it’s possible to adjust it unevenly if you’re not paying attention. Second, it doesn’t offer the same level of structured neck support for a newborn that the Explore’s dedicated (and very padded) pillow flap does. While the FTG is perfectly safe and supportive for a newborn when cinched, some parents might prefer the more “set-it-and-forget-it” pillow on the Explore for that extra feeling of head and neck security.

Read more: Comparison Of Leatherman Free T2 And Victorinox

Maintenance Tips For Tula Free-To-Grow

• Spot Clean First, Machine Wash Second: This is the golden rule for all soft-structured carriers. Your washing machine is the enemy of your carrier’s longevity. Every wash cycle breaks down the fibers, fades the beautiful print, and can be harsh on the buckles and webbing. For 90% of messes—a little spit-up, some drool, a bit of dirt—your best bet is to spot clean. Use a soft cloth (like a baby washcloth), a tiny bit of mild, clear detergent (like unscented dish soap), and some warm water. Gently scrub the affected area and then “rinse” it with a clean, damp cloth. Let it air dry. This will extend the life of your carrier dramatically. I also highly recommend investing in a set of Tula “drool pads” or “suck pads” that snap around the shoulder straps. Your baby will chew on the straps, and it’s infinitely easier to toss those little pads in the wash every few days than it is to wash the entire carrier.
• Master The Machine Wash Rules: When the time comes for a full-blown wash (like after a diaper blowout or a run-in with a messy ice cream cone), you must follow the rules precisely. First, buckle all the buckles—the waist belt and the chest clip. This prevents them from clanging around inside the machine and potentially getting cracked or damaged. Next, place the entire carrier inside a mesh laundry bag or, in a pinch, a pillowcase that you can tie shut. This provides a protective barrier. Use a mild detergent that is free of bleach, optical brighteners, perfumes, and dyes.⁷ These additives can degrade the fabric and are not great for your baby’s sensitive skin.
• Always Use Cold Water And A Gentle Cycle: Never, ever wash your Tula in hot water. Hot water will cause the vibrant colors to fade and can lead to fabric shrinkage. Select the “Delicate” or “Gentle” cycle on your machine and use only cold water. This gentle agitation is all it needs to get clean without being subjected to unnecessary stress. Think of it as a spa day, not a boot camp. The goal is to get it clean with the least possible wear and tear. A second rinse cycle can be helpful to ensure all detergent residue is gone, which is important for preventing skin irritation for your baby.
• Air Dry Only, And Keep It Out Of Direct Sun: This is the most critical maintenance tip.⁸ Do NOT put your Tula Free-to-Grow in the dryer. The high heat of a tumble dryer will destroy your carrier.⁹ It can warp the plastic buckles, melt the internal foam padding of the waistband and shoulder straps, and shrink the cotton fabric. After washing, gently reshape the carrier (especially the padded areas) and hang it to dry. You can hang it over a drying rack, a shower rod, or on a clothesline. If you hang it outside, try to place it in the shade. While the sun is a great natural sanitizer, prolonged, direct sunlight can fade those beautiful Tula prints over time. It might take a full 24 hours to dry completely, especially in the padded waistband, so plan your wash day accordingly.

Comparison With Other Brands

• Versus The Ergobaby Omni 360/Breeze: This is probably the FTG’s most direct competitor in the “newborn ready” space, though the Omni is more of an Explore competitor since it faces out. The main difference in feel is the straps. The Ergobaby Omni allows you to cross the shoulder straps in an “X” on your back, which many people (especially those with narrow shoulders) find immensely more comfortable and secure than the FTG’s H-style straps.¹⁰ The Omni also features a dedicated, built-in lumbar support pad on the waistband, which is a fantastic feature for back comfort that you have to buy as a separate accessory for the Tula.¹¹ However, many users, myself included, find the Tula’s cotton fabric to be significantly softer and less “technical” or “stiff” feeling than the Ergobaby’s material. The FTG’s snap-based seat adjustment is also, in my opinion, simpler than the Omni’s Velcro system, which can be loud (a problem when adjusting with a sleeping baby) and can snag on clothes in the wash.
• Versus The Lillebaby Complete: The Lillebaby Complete is the “kitchen sink” carrier; it boasts six carrying positions, including the forward-facing and hip-carry options that the FTG lacks.¹² Like the Ergobaby, it also features crossable straps, a huge plus for many. The standout feature of the Lillebaby is often its built-in, zip-down mesh panel (on the All-Seasons model) and a large storage pocket, which the FTG lacks.¹³ However, the FTG has a major advantage in its seat adjustment. The Lillebaby only has two seat width settings (“narrow” and “wide”).¹⁴ This creates a well-known “in-between” gap where a baby is too big for the narrow newborn seat but not yet big enough for the wide toddler seat, potentially compromising the ergonomic “M” position for a period. The Tula FTG’s three-snap system, combined with the panel height adjustment, provides a much more customizable and supportive fit during those critical early and middle months of growth. The FTG often feels less bulky and complex than the feature-packed Lillebaby.
• Versus The Beco Gemini: The Beco Gemini is another popular carrier that is often cross-shopped with the Tula. Like the FTG, it’s known for being soft and comfortable. The Gemini’s key feature is that it does allow for forward-facing and it has crossable straps, making it a sort of hybrid between the FTG and the Explore. However, its method for achieving the newborn-ready seat is different. Instead of an adjustable panel, you fold the base of the waistband inward and snap it. This works, but I personally find the FTG’s dedicated snap system to be more secure and less fussy. The Gemini also has a lower weight limit (35 lbs) compared to the FTG’s 45 lbs, giving the Tula a significantly longer lifespan, especially for carrying toddlers. The FTG’s panel is also generally considered taller, offering better support for older babies and toddlers when they fall asleep.
• Versus The Tula Standard: This is an internal comparison, but a crucial one. The Tula Standard was the original, iconic Tula carrier. It is not adjustable. It has a fixed, wide panel designed for babies who are already around 15 lbs and can sit unassisted. To use it with a newborn, you must buy the bulky Tula Infant Insert. The FTG was created to replace this system. The FTG, on its widest setting, is virtually identical in size to the Standard.¹⁵ Therefore, the FTG is objectively more versatile. It is the Standard for toddlers, but it’s also a perfectly-fitted carrier for newborns and infants, all in one package. There is very little reason to buy a new Standard carrier when the FTG exists, unless you are getting a used one for a very low price and only plan to use it for an older baby. The FTG made the insert obsolete.¹⁶

My Experience With Tula Explore

After using the Free-to-Grow for about six months, my baby got curious. He would strain his neck to look around, and I started to feel like he might enjoy a different view.

This is when I decided to try the Tula Explore. My first impression was that it felt more… substantial. It was noticeably bulkier and more padded than the FTG.

This extra structure is centered around the top of the panel, which is a thick, adjustable “neck pillow.”¹⁷

Adjusting the seat width at the bottom was identical to the FTG—three easy snap settings. But the real difference was at the top. For inward-facing, you snap this pillow down. For forward-facing, you flip it up and secure it with buttons to create a more structured, bucket-like seat that supports the baby’s chest and keeps them ergonomic.

The first time I put my son in the forward-facing position (he was about 7 months old, with excellent head and torso control), his reaction was priceless. His eyes went wide, and he started kicking his feet. He loved it. We’d use this position for short periods—maybe 20-30 minutes—while walking through the park or at a family gathering. It was a fantastic tool to have in my toolbox for those “awake and alert” times.

However, I found myself reaching for the FTG more often for naps and long-haul carrying. The Explore, with its extra padding, felt a bit warmer and bulkier on my frame. The neck pillow, while great for the outward-facing position, felt a little fussy for the inward-facing position compared to the simple strap adjustment on the FTG. It’s an amazing carrier, but it feels like a “multi-tool” next to the FTG’s “perfected single-blade knife.”

Pros Of Tula Explore

• The Forward-Facing-Out Position: This is, without question, the number one reason to buy the Explore. It gives you the added versatility of letting a curious baby see the world from your chest. This position is a lifesaver during that specific developmental phase (usually 6-12 months) when babies are desperate for visual stimulation but aren’t yet big enough for a back carry to be their primary view. The Explore is designed to do this ergonomically.¹⁸ Unlike non-ergonomic “crotch dangler” carriers, the Explore uses a button system to create a deep, structured bucket seat that keeps the baby’s pelvis tilted and their weight on their bottom, not their crotch. This maintains a version of the “M” position even while facing out, protecting their hip and spine health. For trips to the zoo, a museum, or just a walk around the neighborhood, this feature is a genuine crowd-pleaser for the baby.
• Excellent Structured Neck Support: The Explore’s defining feature is its large, padded, and adjustable neck pillow.¹⁹ This pillow has multiple functions. For a tiny newborn, it can be folded down and snapped to provide a very secure and cushioned support for their head and neck. When the baby is older and facing inward, it can be flipped up to provide extra height and head support for a sleeping toddler (similar to extending the panel on the FTG). But its main job is in the forward-facing position, where it flips down and buttons to the front, creating a firm, supportive “shelf” that cradles the baby’s chest and chin. This structured support is fantastic and feels incredibly secure. Many parents prefer this more robust pillow system over the FTG’s simpler strap adjustment, especially for the newborn stage.
• Grows With Baby From Birth: Just like its sibling, the Explore is a true “from birth” carrier. It requires no infant insert. It uses the exact same three-snap setting system on the waistband as the Free-to-Grow, allowing you to adjust the seat width from narrow (for newborns) to middle (for infants) to wide (for toddlers).²⁰ This means you get the same core benefit of a long-term, economical carrier that adapts to your child’s growth. You can buy this one carrier and be confident it will fit your 7-pound newborn and your 40-pound toddler, supporting them ergonomically at every stage. This versatility makes it an excellent value, as you are essentially getting a newborn carrier, an outward-facing carrier, and a toddler carrier all in one purchase.
• Maintains Tula’s Signature Comfort: Despite its extra bulk, the Explore is still a Tula at heart. It features the same wide, supportive waistband that Tula is famous for, which does a brilliant job of distributing the baby’s weight onto your hips and saving your back.²¹ The shoulder straps are also generously padded and very comfortable for long-term wear. While it is slightly heavier and bulkier than the FTG, it doesn’t sacrifice the core comfort that makes Tula a top-tier brand. When wearing a 25-pound toddler on my back, the Explore felt just as comfortable and supportive as the FTG, with that same “locked-in” secure feeling that lets you be truly hands-free.

Cons Of Tula Explore

• Noticeably Bulkier And Heavier: The trade-off for that forward-facing capability is bulk. The Explore has extra padding, extra structure, and extra buttons. It just feels like more carrier. This added bulk is most noticeable in the front panel and neck pillow. When you’re trying to get a really snug, “curled-in” fit with a tiny newborn, this extra padding can feel a bit overwhelming, almost like there’s too much fabric between you and the baby. It’s also warmer than the FTG. While Tula offers a “Coast” mesh version of the Explore, the padded pillow structure is still solid fabric and can feel hot against your chest and the baby’s back. It’s also harder to fold up and stuff into a diaper bag; it’s a carrier that feels like more of a commitment to bring along.
• More Complicated To Adjust: The Explore is not as intuitive as the FTG. The FTG has two adjustments: seat snaps and panel height straps.²² The Explore has seat snaps and a multi-functional pillow that snaps one way for newborns, another way for older babies facing in, and a third way (with buttons) for facing out. I remember having to consult the manual (or a YouTube video) the first few times I wanted to switch to the outward-facing position. It’s not hard, but it’s a multi-step process. You have to change the seat snaps to the wider setting, flip the pillow, and secure the buttons. For a parent who is already sleep-deprived and juggling a fussy baby, this extra complexity can be a source of frustration. The simplicity of the FTG is one of its greatest strengths, and the Explore loses that.
• Shoulder Straps Still Do Not Cross: This is a con for both carriers, but it’s worth repeating. For a carrier that is Tula’s “do-it-all” model, the lack of crossable “X-style” straps is a significant omission. Competing carriers in the “multi-position” category, like the Ergobaby Omni and Lillebaby Complete, almost all offer this feature. The ability to cross straps is a major comfort and fit factor for many body types, especially for those with narrow or sloping shoulders who find H-straps slip. By sticking to the H-strap design, Tula is missing an opportunity to make the Explore a more universally comfortable and competitive option, especially at its premium price point.
• Forward-Facing Is Not For Napping: This is less a con of the carrier itself and more a reality of the position it offers. The forward-facing-out position is for short, active periods of observation. It is not a safe or comfortable position for a baby to sleep in. If your baby falls asleep while facing out, they are in a “chin-to-chest” position, which can be a risk for positional asphyxiation. You must be vigilant and, as soon as you see those eyelids droop, you have to stop, take the baby out, and re-configure the carrier to have them face inward. This can be a hassle if you were on a walk and just wanted them to nap. In the FTG, a sleepy baby just lays their head on your chest and dozes off, no adjustments needed. This makes the “nap on the go” (a critical survival tool for parents) much simpler in the FTG.

Maintenance Tips For Tula Explore

• Prioritize Spot Cleaning And Drool Pads: Just like the FTG, your Tula Explore will last much longer if you avoid the washing machine. The Explore has even more reason to be spot-cleaned, as its structure is more complex. The padded neck pillow is an area you want to be gentle with. Use a soft cloth, warm water, and a tiny dot of mild, clear soap (no bleach, no brighteners) to scrub away any spit-up or dirt. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth. The number one accessory for an Explore is a set of drool pads. When your baby is forward-facing, they are going to drool and chew on the front of the carrier, especially that button-down pillow area. Tula sells a specific “Explore Teething Pad” that is shaped to cover this exact area. I consider this a non-negotiable accessory to protect your investment.
• Secure All Fasteners Before A Machine Wash: If a full wash is unavoidable, you must prep the carrier. The Explore has snaps and buttons, in addition to the main buckles.²³ Fasten the waistband buckle and the chest clip buckle. Button the buttons on the front panel that are used for the forward-facing position. Snap the neck pillow into one of its positions. This prevents all these parts from snagging on the carrier’s own fabric or on the inside of the machine. Once everything is secured, place the entire carrier into a large mesh laundry bag or a tied-shut pillowcase. This is a critical step to protect the buckles from cracking and the fabric from abrasion.
• Cold, Gentle Cycle With Mild Detergent: This rule is universal for Tula.²⁴ Use only cold water on your machine’s most delicate or gentle cycle. Hot water will fade the colors and can damage the internal foam padding. Use a very small amount of a liquid detergent that is free of optical brighteners, perfumes, dyes, and bleach.²⁵ These harsh additives are bad for the fabric’s integrity and can irritate your baby’s skin. I always ran an extra rinse cycle to make sure every last bit of soap residue was washed away, especially from the thick, padded areas of the Explore.
• Air Dry Meticulously—Never Use A Dryer: Do not put your Tula Explore in the clothes dryer. The high heat will warp the plastic buckles and, even more critically, will melt and deform the structured foam padding in the waistband and the complex neck pillow. This will ruin the carrier’s shape and supportive structure. After the wash cycle, gently squeeze out any excess water (do not wring it). Reshape the padded areas with your hands. Hang the carrier to air dry, preferably in a shady, well-ventilated spot. The Explore’s thick pillow section and waistband will take a long time to dry—potentially 24-48 hours. Be patient. Do not use it again until it is bone dry, as moisture trapped inside can lead to mildew.

Also read: My Thoughts on Matrixx Water Softener

Comparison With Other Brands

• Versus The Ergobaby Omni (360, Breeze, Dream): This is the Explore’s most direct competitor. Both are “do-it-all” carriers from sister brands that offer newborn-ready, forward-facing, and back-carry positions.²⁶ The Ergobaby Omni consistently beats the Explore on two key features: crossable shoulder straps (for an “X” back fit) and a built-in lumbar support pad. These are significant comfort advantages. The Omni also offers a hip-carry position, which the Explore lacks.²⁷ However, the Explore has its own advantages. Many users (myself included) find the Tula’s 100% cotton fabric to be softer and cozier than the Ergobaby’s stiffer, more “technical” mesh or cotton. The Explore’s seat adjustment (snaps) is quieter and simpler than the Omni’s loud Velcro system. Finally, Tula’s range of prints and special editions is unmatched, which is a big deal for parents who view their carrier as a fashion accessory.
• Versus The Lillebaby Complete: The Lillebaby Complete is another “kitchen sink” carrier, offering six positions (including hip carry) and crossable straps.²⁸ Its main advantages over the Explore are the built-in zip-down “All-Seasons” temperature control panel and a large, functional storage pocket, both of which the Explore lacks. However, the Explore has a much more granular and, in my opinion, superior seat adjustment system. The Lillebaby’s two-width setting (narrow or wide) can leave a baby in an awkward “in-between” stage for months, whereas the Explore’s three-snap setting provides a more ergonomic fit throughout that growth period. The Explore’s neck pillow also feels more substantial and intentionally designed than the Lillebaby’s (which is just a flap), especially for newborn support and the forward-facing position.
• Versus The Beco Gemini: The Beco Gemini is a strong contender that also offers forward-facing and crossable straps, often at a slightly lower price point. It’s known for being soft and less bulky, making it a “halfway” point between the FTG and the Explore. The Explore’s main advantages over the Gemini are its higher weight limit (45 lbs vs. 35 lbs) and its more robust adjustment system. The Explore’s three-snap panel provides a better fit for a wider range of babies, from the tiniest newborn to the tallest toddler. The Gemini’s panel can feel short on older babies. The Explore’s structured neck pillow is also far more supportive than the Gemini’s simple headrest, making the Explore feel more secure for both newborns and for the outward-facing position.
• Versus The Ergobaby Aerloom: The Aerloom is Ergobaby’s answer to the “bulky carrier” problem. It’s an ultra-lightweight, knit-fabric carrier that also does forward-facing.²⁹ It’s significantly lighter, sleeker, and more breathable than the Tula Explore. If your primary concern is heat and weight, the Aerloom is a compelling option. However, the Explore is made from softer, cozier cotton (or linen), which many parents prefer to the Aerloom’s “athletic-wear” feel. The Explore also has a wider weight range (7-45 lbs) compared to the Aerloom (7-35 lbs), giving it a longer life. The Explore’s padded straps and waistband are also arguably more comfortable for heavy-duty, long-term carrying of a toddler, as the Aerloom’s lightweight design offers less padding overall.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

So, after living with both carriers, which one is better? The truth is, the “better” carrier is the one that fits your specific lifestyle.

I found myself reaching for the Tula Free-to-Grow 80% of the time. It’s lighter, it’s less bulky, it’s simpler to use, and it’s the king of cozy contact naps. If you are a parent who values simplicity and maximum comfort for long-duration carrying, and you are happy with the classic inward-facing and back-carry positions, the Free-to-Grow is your carrier. It perfects the fundamentals.

However, the Tula Explore is the “better” choice if you have a “FOMO” (fear of missing out) baby. If you know your little one is intensely curious and you want the option to let them face the world on your front, the Explore gives you that versatility. It’s the carrier for zoo trips, crowded family parties, and stimulating walks. You accept a little extra bulk and complexity in exchange for a third carrying position that can be a lifesaver.

My final advice? Be honest with yourself. Don’t buy the Explore “just in case.” If you love the idea of a simple, snuggly carrier, get the Free-to-Grow. If you’ve seen other parents with forward-facing babies and thought, “I definitely want to do that,” then the Explore is the clear winner for you.