Although the Kanga SSC has remained largely unchanged since 2008, there have been four "Generations" of Bloo Kangaroo buckle carriers. In order to help identify older carriers, I thought I'd put together a page on the differences.
Generation 1 is where it all started in September 2007. The first generation Bloo Kangaroo carriers were only Kanga-X's. The current waist is the same style as the original Gen 1 carriers, but my supplier no longer carries the "bumpy" padding. The padding after 2011 is of the same material, but does not have the egg-crate shape on one side.
Gen 1 (September 2007-Jan 2008) 1. Kanga-X only 2. 18" tall from top of waist to top of carrier 3. Shoulder straps were straight, tapered, and ended at webbing 4. Hoods had squared corners
(Gen 1 Kanga-X)
Gen 2 (Jan 2008- April 2008) 1. Kanga-J and Kanga-XT's added 2. Padding was extended past the webbing 3. Straps were straight 4. Kanga-X changed to 17" tall 5. Horizontal stitching on XT headrest
Gen 3 (April 2008-July 2008) 1. Contoured straps, stiff padding in the ends of the straps 2. Top stitching goes all the way down to point where webbing connects 3. Kanga-X hoods have angled corners like the Kanga-J's **Retrofitting of the stiff end padding to "squishy" padding is available for a small fee. Email for information.
Gen 4 (July 2008 - current ) 1. Contoured straps, slimmed down considerably in underarm section 2. Original squishy padding all the way down to the end of strap 3. Shoulder straps 1" shorter on both Kanga-J and Kanga-XT
Other (same Gen 4 body/straps) 2009 - Kanga-X discontinued 2011 - Kanga-XTP and X2 added 2013 - XTP and XT extensions were lowered and moved out 1/2". ( XTP extensions now sit just above the waistband and XT extensions are about 3/4" up from waistband. 2015 - Dual adjust option for shoulder straps added for custom/pre-orders 2016 - Dual adjust buckles for shoulder straps standard for ALL Kangas. 2018 - Kanga BK (big kid, ages 4-7) added. Previously only a custom option.
With so many carriers on the market today, the Kanga buckle carrier from Bloo Kangaroo stands apart from all others.
Innovative features such as an all fabric waist, paded side extensions, and memory foam straps, make it unique in the babywearing world.
A Kanga can be a welcome addition to your and your child's daily routines.
Padded Backrest
Support for the child, peace of mind for you. The padded backrest allows taller children to feel safe while riding, and is helpful for children with low muscle tone.
Kanga straps are filled with soft, high density memory foam and are ergonomically curved to fit. Shoulder straps may be ordered with our "Cinch to a Smaller Size" option which allows the carrier to fit two sizes.
Supportive Waist
Voted #1 by babywearers! Our padded all fabric waistband is ergonomic and comfortable, and won't push your pants down. The standard size will fit 24" to 56"
"Grow With Me"
Side Extensions
Unlike other carriers which use seat pleats and darts to widen the carrier, the Kanga uses padded side extensions which allow all children to sit comfortably. As a larger child will fill up more of the seat, pulling the extensions underneath their legs. This increases the width of the carrier as they get older. Because the back of the carrier is flat, your child's weight is on your hips, not your back.
ASTM Certified
All Kangas are designed with rugged internal reinforcement which allows them to meet and exceed testing requirements set forth by the ASTM and CPSIA. Kanga shoulder straps and top body are built as one piece into the carrier, less seams means more durability.