Roger Martinez

A roomy toe box with a soft upper that avoids overlays on the bunion and a snug heel counter fixed my toe crush and heel slip... I switched to wide sizing in the same length for more width and then test jogged on inclines to be sure my toes stayed relaxed.

I was in the same spot after my first and learned I need structure more than sheer size. Look for a bag with a wide opening that holds itself open so you can see everything at a glance so yeah a doctor-bag frame or a U zip top does this and and it fixes the backpack problem of digging around. Outside elastic bottle pockets are key so you are not unzipping for every sip & and a light interior lining makes it way easier to find tiny socks and pacifiers. Weight matters more than you think. Aim for something under two pounds empty with soft but supportive straps. A crossbody strap that is wide and slightly textured will stop the sliding you had with messenger styles, and it helps if the bag also has short grab handles so you can switch carries quickly in a parking lot. If you want versatility, a convertible option with tuckaway backpack straps lets you go hands free at the playground but still access everything from the top when you swing it to your side. Look for wipeable fabric like nylon or coated canvas with a reinforced base and little feet so it stays off wet floors. Smooth zippers you can open with one hand make a real difference during that model changes. A quick access pocket for wipes or your phone and a separate parent section for wallet keys and sunglasses keeps your stuff from getting buried. For looks, go with clean lines minimal hardware and a neutral color that passes as a work tote. Nothing babyish. Two final checks I always do in store or at home with tags on. Load it with what you actually carry and make sure bottles stand upright without tipping and you can reach wipes one handed. Then do the shoulder shake test to see if the strap slips and try opening it while it hangs on a stroller or shopping cart. Works great.