Putting a child on your shoulders is a parenting tradition that offers kids a better view of the world, but it usually comes with a downside: the parent has to support the child with their arms, leaving little freedom to move comfortably. Norwegian company MiniMeis set out to improve that experience by creating a structured system that keeps children securely seated while allowing parents to keep both hands free.
The result is the MiniMeis G5, a fifth-generation shoulder-mounted child carrier featuring a framed seat, safety harnesses, and an ergonomic load-distribution system. The carrier is available in the U.S. through MiniMeis’ website. The product has earned significant recognition, including being named one of Time Magazine’s Top 100 Best Inventions of the Year. It has also received DadsNet’s Gold Award for Best Game-Changing Parenting Product and was recognized as Most Innovative Product for Parents at a major international children’s products trade fair.
How the MiniMeis G5 works
Unlike a traditional shoulder ride where a child sits directly on a parent’s neck and shoulders, the G5 uses a purpose-built seat positioned above the shoulders on a stainless-steel frame. This design distributes weight through the carrier and across the parent’s torso instead of concentrating pressure on the neck and upper shoulders.
The child sits on a padded seat and is secured using a waist belt, leg straps, and a flexible backrest. For younger children between 6 and 10 months old, MiniMeis includes a 9-point harness with shoulder straps to provide additional upper-body support during the developmental stage when core strength may still be limited. Older toddlers primarily rely on the waist belt and leg straps.
The carrier itself is worn using shoulder straps and chest buckles, functioning similarly to a hiking harness. Once familiar with the setup, parents can put it on and secure a child in seconds.
One of the biggest advantages of the design is that it leaves both hands completely free while carrying a child.
Build, materials, and safety
The MiniMeis G5 weighs just 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs) and folds down to approximately 30 × 38 × 12 cm (12 × 15 × 5 inches). Its compact folded size allows it to fit under a stroller, inside many backpacks, or in carry-on luggage.
The frame is made from stainless steel, providing the structural strength needed to support a child safely. The fabric components are produced using recycled PET plastic bottles recovered from ocean waste, a sustainability-focused design choice that delivers the same performance characteristics as conventional synthetic fabrics.
Safety testing and certification have been completed by SGS, an independent testing and certification organization. The G5 meets both U.S. and European safety standards.
The carrier is rated for children weighing up to 18 kg (40 lbs) and is designed for use from approximately 6 months of age through about 4–5 years old.
Core and Premium versions
MiniMeis offers the G5 in two main product tiers: Core and Premium.
Core models are available in Black Core and Dusk Blue Core finishes and provide the same functionality and safety features as the Premium models.
Premium versions are available in Olive Premium, Black Premium, Sand Premium, and Birch Premium. These models feature matte recycled-ocean-waste fabrics, color-matched components, silicone leather accents, molded logos, and a softer overall finish.
Premium models also include a mesh-ventilated back panel designed to improve airflow between the child and the carrier, which can be particularly beneficial during warm-weather use. The Olive Premium version additionally features copper-finish detailing on the stainless-steel frame.
While Premium versions add comfort and aesthetic upgrades, the core carrying system and safety performance remain the same across the lineup.
Setup and ease of use
Using the MiniMeis G5 requires three basic steps:
- Unfold the carrier and place it on your shoulders.
- Secure the chest buckles.
- Place the child in the seat and fasten the waist belt and leg straps.
MiniMeis provides both printed instructions and video guides to help new users get started.
Unlike some child carriers that require extensive fitting adjustments, the G5 uses a simplified design with Velcro straps and no complicated back-panel calibration. This allows it to accommodate a range of body types and heights without extensive setup.
The Hero Backpack companion
MiniMeis also offers a companion product called the Hero Backpack, designed specifically to work with the G5 while functioning as a standalone backpack.
The Hero Backpack attaches directly to the back of the G5 using patented hooks. This arrangement creates a balanced carry system similar to a hiking setup, with the child positioned on the front and the backpack on the back.
One of the Hero’s most distinctive features is its ability to convert into a portable child seat. By unfolding the backrest, extending the seat pad, and securing the sides, the backpack transforms into a padded seat that can be attached to many standard chairs. This can be useful when suitable high chairs are unavailable at restaurants or other public places.
The backpack offers 28 liters (7.4 gallons) of storage capacity and features a 180-degree suitcase-style opening, a laptop sleeve, side pockets, and a thermal compartment for food and drinks.
When the G5 is folded, it can fit inside the Hero Backpack’s main compartment, allowing the entire carrying system to be consolidated into a single bag.
When purchased together with a G5 carrier, the Hero Backpack is discounted by 50%, reducing its price from €149 to €74.50.
Recognition and company background
MiniMeis describes the G5 as the fifth generation of what it says is the world’s first globally patented shoulder-mounted child carrier featuring a framed seat and integrated safety harness system.
The company was founded in Norway by fathers who wanted an alternative to traditional strollers and front carriers.
The product’s inclusion in Time Magazine’s Best Inventions list helped bring international attention to the concept. The Telegraph also praised the carrier, describing it as a product that significantly improves traditional shoulder carrying, particularly for families with toddlers who dislike strollers and conventional carriers.
Limitations and considerations
While the G5 addresses many of the challenges associated with traditional shoulder rides, prospective buyers should be aware of several limitations.
The maximum child weight is 18 kg (40 lbs), and the carrier is intended for children up to approximately 4–5 years old. Families with older or heavier children will eventually outgrow the system, and MiniMeis does not currently offer a higher-capacity version.
The G5 is also not intended to replace a stroller for situations where a child may need to sleep comfortably. While a sleeping child remains safely secured, the carrier does not provide a reclined sleeping position. For longer outings where naps are likely, a stroller or reclinable carrier may still be the better option.
Parents should also observe the minimum recommended age of 6 months. Younger infants generally lack the head and neck control required for this type of carrier. The included 9-point harness is designed specifically for the 6–10 month age range and is not intended for younger babies.
Finally, MiniMeis offers a 30-day return policy, but U.S. customers are responsible for a $25 return shipping fee. While this cost is clearly disclosed by the company, it is worth considering before purchasing.
Pricing and availability
The MiniMeis G5 is available directly from MiniMeis with taxes and VAT included in the listed prices.
Current pricing is:
- Core models (Black Core, Dusk Blue Core): from €199 (approx. US$231)
- Premium models (Olive Premium and Sand Premium): €249 (approx. US$290) – Black Premium: €229 (approx. US$266)
The Hero Backpack costs €149 when purchased separately or €74.50 (approx. US$86.50) when added to a G5 order at checkout.
Orders over €100 qualify for free shipping. Standard delivery is listed as 1–7 business days, with many orders arriving within 2–4 days. MiniMeis also provides a 2-year warranty when the product is registered.
The company ships to the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, most European countries, and selected markets throughout Asia.
Source: MiniMeis
