The Thule Sapling is a premium child carrier backpack that’s become a favorite for outdoor-loving parents. Known for Thule’s reputation in outdoor gear, this pack is designed to make hiking with children safe, comfortable, and convenient. With a sturdy build, ample storage, and comfort-focused features, the Thule Sapling aims to provide an enjoyable experience for both parent and child. Below is a balanced review covering the pros and cons of this popular child carrier.
Design and Build Quality
One of the standout aspects of the Thule Sapling is its solid build. Made from durable, high-quality materials, the backpack can withstand the demands of rugged terrain while offering reliable safety. Its frame is robust, yet the backpack isn’t overwhelmingly heavy compared to similar products. This ensures it can support children weighing up to 48 pounds, which makes it suitable for older toddlers as well. The Sapling’s design strikes a balance between durability and comfort, promising longevity even with frequent outdoor use.
The Thule Sapling’s design also reflects attention to ergonomic detail. The seat for the child is adjustable, allowing for a customized fit as your child grows. Padded, adjustable stirrups help keep the child’s legs comfortable and prevent them from dangling, which can reduce fatigue. This, coupled with side entry for easy loading and unloading, demonstrates Thule’s commitment to both safety and convenience.
Comfort for the Child
Comfort for the child is another key benefit of the Thule Sapling. The seat is padded and lined with a breathable material that helps keep your child cool, even on warm days. The height-adjustable seat helps provide a comfortable position, especially on longer hikes. Additionally, the carrier includes a sunshade that can be quickly deployed, providing essential UV protection. For many parents, these small details make a big difference in ensuring their child remains content and secure while out on the trail.
While these comfort-focused features are generally well-regarded, some users have mentioned that the seat width can be a bit snug for larger children. For toddlers approaching the carrier’s maximum weight limit, there may be limited wiggle room. Still, most users report that this isn’t a deal-breaker as it helps keep children secure and close to the carrier’s center of gravity for added stability.
Parent Comfort and Fit
When it comes to parent comfort, the Thule Sapling scores high marks for its customizable fit. It has a fully adjustable torso and waist system, which can be altered to suit parents of varying heights. This makes it easy for two people to share carrying duties, as adjustments can be made quickly. The shoulder and hip padding are thick enough to distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure points on long hikes. In addition, the breathable back panel keeps things relatively cool, minimizing sweat buildup on warm days.
However, some users report that the Sapling can feel heavy and bulky, especially on longer treks. While the weight distribution is efficient, it’s still a sizable pack when fully loaded with gear and a child. If you plan on hiking extensively, this added weight is something to consider, as it may require some fitness and acclimation for longer excursions.
Storage and Accessibility
Storage is a strong point for the Thule Sapling. With multiple pockets and compartments, there’s plenty of room for essentials like water bottles, diapers, snacks, and personal items. A large zippered compartment at the bottom provides ample space for bulkier items, and the accessible hip belt pockets allow you to reach for small essentials without removing the pack. This is a big advantage over many other child carriers that tend to skimp on storage space.
That said, some users have noted that the bottom storage compartment can be difficult to access with the child seated. It’s best to pack items you’ll need frequently in the upper or hip pockets to avoid the need to unload the child every time you want to reach something at the bottom. This minor inconvenience is manageable with some planning, but it’s worth noting for parents considering the pack for extended day trips.
Safety Features
Thule doesn’t skimp on safety with the Sapling. The five-point harness system keeps your child securely in place, and the cockpit design ensures a snug fit that minimizes the risk of slipping. The backpack also includes reflective elements, which improve visibility in low-light conditions—an essential feature for early-morning or late-evening hikes. The sunshade adds another layer of safety by protecting your child from harmful UV rays, which can be particularly intense on exposed trails.
Some parents, however, wish that the sunshade were larger to offer more complete coverage, particularly on sunny days when the sun is low in the sky. It’s still effective and better than many carriers that lack a sunshade entirely, but a bit more coverage would enhance its utility.
Final Verdict
The Thule Sapling is an excellent investment for active parents who want a durable, comfortable, and feature-rich child carrier backpack. With its thoughtful design, ample storage, and reliable safety features, it’s well-suited for families who frequently hike or explore the outdoors. The adjustable fit system and cushioned straps make it comfortable for parents of varying sizes, while the padded seat and adjustable harness provide a secure and cozy ride for the child.
However, this quality comes at a premium price, and some may find it bulky for shorter hikes or urban environments. Additionally, the storage compartments, while generous, can be tricky to access without some planning. These are minor drawbacks, though, and for many parents, the Thule Sapling’s positives far outweigh its negatives.
In conclusion, the Thule Sapling is a great choice for outdoor families looking for a robust and comfortable child carrier. If you’re planning on tackling rough terrain with your little one or just want a reliable carrier for your family’s adventures, the Thule Sapling is well worth considering.
£379.99
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