Artipoppe Zeitgeist vs Lenny Lamb Light: Which Baby Carrier Is Better?
- Emma – Little One Snug
- Sep 13, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Do I need to spend £££ on a carrier?
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This guide is for you if...
✔ You're considering spending a chunk of money on a carrier
✔ You've heard of one or both of these brands
✔ You're curious about the comparison
✔ You want to feel more clued up before spending
Essentially no, the good news is you don't need get the most premium thing out there!
In the carrier world more money definitely doesn't equate to best, and what's best for me might not be the best for you! Which is why I do suggest trying before buying if you can.
After trying a few expensive brands myself, while some definitely feel more premium, especially when it comes to buckle carriers - this is not the be all and end all, and you can still get this feel with other brands that are lesser known!
With handwovens and costs I'd say it's a bit different, because you are paying for hours of craftmanship, vs something that is factory produced.
Currently, one of the most premium full soft structured buckle carriers is the Artipoppe Zeitgeist. And I think competitor Lenny Lamb have a carrier (The Lenny Lamb Light) that is pretty similar at a much better pricepoint. But while many sling library's will have the Lenny Light, they will not the Artipoppe due to the expense! Some do them for postal hire, so you'll need to look those up if you are keen to try before buying – a quick google should help you there!
So, which of the two above carriers mentioned is the best? Well that depends on you!
Artipoppe?
If you must have a specific Artipoppe print, you love the brand aesthetic or want to make a bit of a statement with your carrier, and/or are happy with the following pointers below then by all means get one!
The Artipoppe really only carries in one position well / most comfortably (front - inward facing) - it can also do back carrying and offers outward facing.
While you can back carry with the Artipoppe you will need something (like an accessory clip, or scarf (Artipoppe do actually sell these quite expensively separately) to secure the carry on the front, as you don't want the shoulder straps being in danger of slipping off.
Although you can according to the instructions, I wouldn't actually love my Artipoppe to outward face baby in - the front panel around baby's face just seems way too gapey, even once you've used the additional piece to get the main panel narrower for baby's legs and keep baby snug against you.
The brand unfortunately isn't megga plus size friendly, they fit baby's best from around 8-15 weeks, poss later depending on size of baby (though say from newborn in their labelling??!), simply because the narrowest base setting is too wide for scrunched up newborn legs, and the panel height isnt the most adjustable either, on the upper limit I'd say fit is to around 18m.
Due to the price-point very few UK sling libraries have these to try before buying (you can pop Artipoppe Sling Library into a search engine to see the one's that will do it on postal hire) where possible I do recommend trying before buying, because if you dislike something at this price-point it's a very expensive mistake.
Artipoppe does not have a relationship with babywearing consultants and value influencers promoting with affiliate links over us - which I of course find disappointing.
After wearing one myself it I would say that while it felt quite comfortable, and the fabric did seem lovely quality, that I've tried much less expensive brands with very similar, or actually even better comfort levels. Also, my short torso and the rather deep waistband was not a match made in heaven! The waistband, although sturdy was not diggy feeling to me.
Generally speaking, I feel that if you are spending above £180 on an infant carrier, the price point will be more reflective of the style and brand name over any superior functionality.
Lenny Lamb Light?
A very lovely, popular and comparable buckle carrier to the Artipoppe that I tend to show customers considering a premium buckle is the Lenny Lamb Light starting from about £100rrp, (yes this could still be considered fairly expensive, but when you consider cost-per day of wearing with up to around 18m/2yrs in longevity (depending on size), then actually it's a good investment, especially when you think in comparison how much people spend on strollers! This amount is also much more affordable than a brand new Artipoppe.
You won't find many Lenny Lamb Light's preloved, as this is a fairly new model, and people are hanging onto them, because of their quality. As with most Lenny Lamb Products, even when you do get preloved items, you don't tend to get too much of a bargain because of demand.
In terms of features the Lenny Lamb Light is simple, but far more adjustable in minimum width, and height - I have fit a 4 week old baby in one. I will say though in the earliest of weeks you often can't beat the comfort of a full fabric sling (stretchy, ring sling, woven, or v mouldable mehdai).
The straps of the Lenny Lamb Light are possibly a bit more padded than the Artipoppe, but likewise this carrier there is the option to cross them at the back, and additionally you have the option to have them in H formation as well without additional accessories
Positions: Now this carrier doesn't offer front-facing as a position (more on why I'm not the biggest fan of this carrying style in this post.) but you can hip or back carry with the Lenny Lamb Light quite comfortably.
The fabric on the Artipoppe is lovely, but the Lenny Lamb Light is available in so many beautiful prints - I don't actually think the images do them justice! I always get so many compliments with their products. From dinosaur patterns, to lovely floral designs to match your personality, they even have some linen options for more breathableness in the summer.
I have most Lenny carriers in my library – The Lenny Lamb brand has a very positive relationship with consultants, which is always why I'm more than happy to promote the brand too. They are a Polish company, so although this adds to delivery costs, delivery is still fairly quick. I currently can organise the shipping of Lenny Lamb products at more competitive rates to Little One Snug customers (if you hire or book a 1:1) via my consusltancy account
I do have an affiliate code for this brand too if you're not local (do drop me a message via the contact form on my homepage if you'd like it)
Summarised Considerations for Both:
Toddler comfort
Both carriers are capable of supporting toddlers, but comfort becomes even more important as your child grows.
I'd argue that because the Lenny Lamb Light has slightly more longevity - that this will offer better toddler comfort. As with any carrier, the best choice depends on your body shape, your child's size, and how long you typically carry for. If you're planning plenty of toddler adventures, it's well worth trying both before making a decision.
Resale value
One area where Artipoppe really stands out is its resale value.
Because of the brand's popularity and luxury image, many Artipoppe carriers retain a high proportion of their original purchase price when sold second-hand, particularly limited edition fabrics in excellent condition.
Lenny Lamb carriers also really retain their value as a trusted brand valued by the babywearing community, and the more desirable the print the better. If you think you may sell your carrier in the future, resale value is certainly worth factoring into the overall cost of ownership. The final price you will get will also of course depend on how good nick it's in too!
Washing and everyday care
Let's be honest, baby carriers are going to encounter milk, dribble, snacks and the occasional nappy mishap! Whichever carrier you choose, always follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Gentle washing and allowing the carrier to air dry will help preserve the fabric and keep buckles and stitching in good condition. If you're choosing between these two carriers purely on ease of care, there isn't a clear winner. Looking after either carrier well will help it last for many years and maintain its resale value.
Getting the right (and safe) fit
One thing that's easy to overlook when comparing baby carriers online is that even the best-reviewed carrier won't feel comfortable if it isn't adjusted correctly.
Both the Artipoppe Zeitgeist and Lenny Lamb Light are highly adjustable, but taking a few minutes to achieve the right fit can completely transform how supportive they feel.
This is one of the reasons I'm such a big advocate for trying before buying. Being able to compare carriers side by side, with support if needed, often gives parents far more confidence than relying on online reviews alone. We have covered how the Lenny Light will fit a baby far sooner than the Artipoppe Zeitgeist too.
Which offers better value for money?
This is probably the question I'm asked most.
The Artipoppe Zeitgeist is undoubtedly a beautifully made carrier with premium fabrics and impressive resale value. However, when I look purely at comfort, adjustability, ease of use and overall carrying experience, I genuinely believe the Lenny Lamb Light offers exceptional value for money. For many families, it delivers everything they're looking for at a significantly lower price point. That doesn't mean Artipoppe isn't worth buying, far from it. If you love the aesthetic, appreciate the luxury fabrics, don't mind waiting til it fits baby, and the price fits your budget, it's an excellent carrier. But if you're simply looking for a comfortable, still quite premium-looking and supportive carrier that represents outstanding value, the Lenny Lamb Light is very hard to beat. There is also the Upgrade Pro model you could consider (more adjustments, but much more longevity still, this carrier will suit more body-types in my opinion too).
With a babywearing consultation you can book in the chance to try out lots, and really get a feel for things, before committing to carriers of such price-tags, you might find you like something totally off your radar, that a consultant suggests because you mentioned you needed a particular feature, or have certain mobility issues etc.
Quick Comparison
Feature | Artipoppe Zeitgeist | Lenny Lamb Light |
Price | ££££ | ££ |
Newborn suitable | (from approx 12 weeks) | (from approx 4 weeks) |
Toddler suitable | ✓ | ✓ |
Machine washable | ✓ | ✓ |
Resale value | Excellent | Retains Value Well |
Best for | Luxury styling / brand recognition | Value & comfort, yet still aesthetically beautiful! |
Is Budget Still Making You Hesitate With Either Of These Brands?
If you are on more of a budget than the two carriers I've cross referenced above my first step is suggesting to customers reputable fairly similar or cheaper preloved brands to shop for, such as a Beco Gemini, or Bizzi Growin, their is Momcozy - but the brand ethics in my opinion are very questionable. Even with the preloved market I'd still recommend trying anything before buying - and here's why.
Happy Carrying,
Emma
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Every baby, every parent, and carrier is different!
Articles like this can answer general questions, but they can't check your fit / comfort, adjust your sling or tell you whether your baby is positioned comfortably and safely.
That's exactly what I do during support sessions.
I'm Emma, the babywearing consultant behind Little One Snug. I offer relaxed, personalised sling consultations, carrier hire and troubleshooting sessions for families across Hastings and East Sussex, helping you carry your baby safely and confidently from newborn through to preschool. Whether you're choosing your first sling, struggling with your current carrier or simply want reassurance that everything feels right, I'm here to help.
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About the Author:
Emma is the founder of Little One Snug, a babywearing consultancy and sling library based in Hastings, East Sussex. Supporting 240 local families (and counting) since 2024 with all their babywearing needs.
