i-phyeonhae chunei (choo-nee)
by Daniell Kaster
(Indianapolis, IN)
I have low back and shoulder problems so it took a long time to find a carrier that works well for us! I tried the Ergo, a ring sling, the Baby Bjorn, a pouch and a wrap. When my baby was 6 months, I discovered the chunei. Based on the traditional Korean baby carrier (podeagi), the chunei looks like a vest. It wraps completely around the torso and secures with velcro and a buckle. There are shoulder straps but they are there mostly for form--the baby's weight is supported by the wearer's torso. It has a built-in seat making it impossible for the baby to slip out. It can be worn for front or back carrys, I mostly use it on the back--it's the only way my little girl will nap now! The swaddling effect and high back rest are a plus in this way. The i-phyeonhae is very well made, the back support is removable and it comes with a detachable hood.