Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL for Women

Deuter just released their updated Kid Comfort line, including the brand new Kid Comfort Active SL, which is women-specific.

First off, I have to say that in all the dozens of framed carriers I have used over the years, this is THE most comfortable one for me. The torso length is right, the back system is right and the weight is light. And right.

AND just because it is women-specific does NOT mean that men can’t use it too (so don’t write it off if you plan to share with your spouse). My husband also finds it comfortable.

This is Deuter’s lightest kid carrier and is perfect for day-hikes where you don’t need as high of a storage capacity or bells and whistles.

What Changed from Previous Kid Comforts

While Deuter has never previously released a SL model of their Kid Comforts, there are some new updates that are different from the older Kid Comforts worth mentioning:

1. Updated buckle configuration. I like this much better as it makes it easier to reach the buckles since they are off to the side of the child more. Photo below shows the pack opened wide to easier show off the buckles.
2. The bottom gear area closes with a cinch, not a zipper (though the Kid Comfort does still have a zipper if you prefer that)
3. Different back system. The Kid Comfort Active series (both SL and not) use this system.

The Specs:

• Pack weight: 5 lbs. 13 oz.
• Volume: 12 liters
• Fits torso length: 14-18″
• Max Weight load: 48 lbs.
• Back system: Aircontact Lite
• Variquick system for changing torso length
• For babies/kids 15 lbs – 45 lbs

What we love:

• Very lightweight and not bulky
• Incredibly comfortable for me as the wearer
• As a person with a shorter torso, I appreciate my head not banging into the pack – I noticed this before anything else.
• Does a great job of holding both young babies (we recommend 6mo+) and toddlers/preschoolers (under 45 pounds)
• Top pocket is great for sliding diapers/water bottles in
• Bottom gear area is easy in and out with their new cinch. It even makes it possible for the wearer to reach back and grab something out of the bottom without having to take it off and mess with zippers
• The waist pocket is nice and big with an easy zipper (I store my iPhone 7 in there with no issues)

What we aren’t So crazy about:

• I am just not sure yet what to think about the fact that the gear area doesn’t close with a zipper. So far, we have had no issues with it and liked the easy in/out access, but I would imagine it would be tougher in terrible weather like sideways snow or rain. That said, the full Rain Cover Deluxe would solve this problem if you ended up in a surprise downpour.
• I wish they had included mesh pockets on the sides for sticking in hats, sunglasses, etc. But it does allow it to be lighter in general and there are other pockets on every other model if that’s something you feel like you need. See the full line-up here.

Bottom Line:

The new Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL is my new favorite pack for day hikes. While I sometimes miss the extra features of an integrated sun shade, some extra pockets or more storage, the trade-off of less weight is worth it.

The pack is very comfortable and light for the wearer without compromising any comfort for the child.

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