Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL Baby Backpack Carrier Review

Bottom line

The Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL is a women’s-specific version of the Deuter Kid Comfort Active. According to Deuter, the shorter adjustable back length and narrower ergonomic fit are designed to better accommodate the female anatomy and smaller frames. Admittedly, we were somewhat skeptical about the impact of the fit, but our female gear analysts discovered it to be significantly more comfortable than the unisex version.

The Active SL (and its unisex counterpart, the Kid Comfort Active) provides a streamlined, sporty alternative to the traditional Kid Comfort. Both parents and children will enjoy the improved ventilation, while parents will appreciate the lighter weight compared to the more robust Kid Comfort. The Active SL retains many of the same features as the standard Kid Comfort, including adjustable footrest stirrups and a cozy cockpit with an extra-plush chin pad.

However, the weight savings come with trade-offs. This model sacrifices storage space and is not hydration-compatible, which may limit its utility for longer or more gear-intensive outings.

If you like the sound of the Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL but want to explore more of our favorite baby backpack carriers, be sure to check out our full in-depth gear guide.

And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:

How We Tested

We tested the Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL for several months, taking it on hikes and snowshoeing adventures in the Colorado mountains and foothills. Our testing team consisted of men and women with various body types and children aged 7 months to 3 years. We assessed comfort, durability, and functionality across diverse terrains and weather conditions.

Comfort

The Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL is noticeably more comfortable for women and individuals with smaller body types than its unisex competitors. The women’s-specific fit, which includes a shorter adjustable back length and narrower shoulder straps, significantly enhances comfort for our testers with petite builds. 

One female gear analyst mentioned that the pack “hugged” her frame better than the unisex version, reducing shoulder strain and improving stability on longer hikes. Additionally, the pull-forward hip fins helped to achieve a snug and secure fit, even when the pack was fully loaded.

At just over 5.5 pounds, the Active SL is among the lightest framed carriers we’ve tested, making it an excellent choice for longer or more challenging trails. The Lite Aircontact back system stood out for its exceptional ventilation, keeping testers cool on warm, sunny hikes. This lightweight, breathable design reduces fatigue, especially when carrying heavier toddlers approaching the weight limit.

However, the streamlined design compromises some stability and doesn’t handle heavy loads as effectively as its sturdier counterparts. This trade-off may discourage parents with older or heavier children.

Features

The Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL keeps things simple while focusing on the essentials for smaller-framed parents. The SL Women’s Fit is a standout feature, with its shorter back length and narrower straps providing a snug, ergonomic fit. Our testers loved how it felt more tailored and secure than bulkier unisex options.

The Lite Aircontact back system is another win, offering great ventilation for those warmer hikes. Plus, the VariQuick System (love the clever name) makes it easy to adjust the torso length, so swapping the pack between caregivers is quick and hassle-free. Little touches like height-adjustable footrests and the soft, washable chin pad are appreciated for keeping kids cozy. Like the rest of the Kid Comfort Lineup, the Active SL features side entry, making it easier to get the little ones in and out of the carrier. 

However, it’s clear that this pack is designed with minimalism in mind. Storage is limited, and there’s no hydration bladder compatibility. Additionally, the sunshade is not included, which is disappointing because this is a warm-weather-focused carrier. While these features might not matter for shorter outings, they could be drawbacks on longer treks. It’s a solid, no-frills option for everyday adventures.

Durability

The Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL excels in durability, despite its lightweight design. The pack is made of 210D PA fabric, the same material used across the Kid Comfort line, which feels strong while being thin and light. During testing, it withstood trail scrapes and everyday wear without displaying any significant signs of damage.

The stitching is solid, and the aluminum frame feels sturdy enough to withstand the bumps and jolts of outdoor adventures. One tester remarked that even after loading it to near capacity, the pack displayed no signs of stress or fraying, which is reassuring for long-term use.

Storage & Organization

The Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL keeps storage simple, which is both a pro and a con, depending on your needs. It has a few key compartments, including a separate bottom pocket that’s great for stashing essentials like snacks, a diaper kit, or an extra layer. There is also a single mesh pocket of back of the pack that works well for smaller items. Lastly, there are dual zippered hip belt pockets for items that you want easy access to like small snacks and a cell phone. 

The storage is definitely minimal compared to other carriers. If you’re accustomed to packs with large compartments and hydration compatibility, this one may feel a bit limiting. Although it lacks space for a hydration bladder, you can manage with a water bottle tucked in the outer pocket.

For shorter outings or lighter packing needs, the setup works well. However, for parents facing longer adventures, the limited storage may require asking your hiking partner to carry some of the load.

Weight

One reason we’re so fond of the Active SL is its lightweight design, weighing just over 5.5 pounds. This makes it one of the lightest framed carriers we’ve tested, which is a significant advantage for parents tackling longer or more challenging hikes. That weight savings accumulates when you’re carrying a child and gear for hours.

Despite its lightweight design, the pack doesn’t feel flimsy. The aluminum frame strikes a good balance between sturdiness and manageability. However, there’s a trade-off—while it’s excellent for keeping the overall load lighter, it’s not as stable or robust as heavier models when carrying toddlers closer to the weight limit.

Should You Buy the Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL?

The Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL is an excellent choice for parents with smaller frames or those who prioritize lightweight gear. Its women’s-specific fit and adjustable back system make it particularly comfortable for petite wearers, offering a snug, stable carry that stands out during shorter to moderate hikes. The pack’s streamlined design and reduced weight make it a great option for those who value portability and ventilation, especially on warm days or trails with challenging elevation.

However, its minimalist design has some compromises. Storage is limited, and it’s not hydration-compatible, making it less suited for all-day excursions or for parents needing to pack a lot of gear. While sturdy enough for most adventures, the lighter build may not feel as stable with larger kids near the weight limit.

For families prioritizing comfort, simplicity, and casual outings, this pack offers significant value. It’s perfect for local trails and outdoor trips where agility and comfort matter most.

What Other Baby Backpack Carriers Should You Consider?

If you’re considering the Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL, here are a few other standout baby carriers from our guide to the best baby backpack carriers worth checking out:

Osprey Poco SLT Review: For those seeking a lightweight pack, the Poco SLT is nearly a full pound lighter and serves as a solid choice for individuals desiring a versatile, ventilated pack with a more unisex fit.

Deuter Kid Comfort Review: This sibling to the Active SL offers a more robust build and additional storage, making it ideal for parents tackling longer hikes or carrying larger kids. It maintains Deuter’s high-quality comfort and durability while adding features like hydration bladder compatibility and a roomier storage compartment.

Ergobaby 360 Cool Air Review: For parents seeking a frameless option, the Ergobaby 360 Cool Air is an ultra-lightweight, breathable carrier that is perfect for shorter outings or city adventures. Although it lacks the structure and storage of framed carriers, it excels in portability and comfort for both the baby and the parent.