“It’s a Game-Changer” - How This NZ Mum Found Relief, Convenience and Freedom With the HipSurfer
If you’ve ever found yourself hip-popping like a pro (and paying for it later), or doing the toddler juggle while sprinting through errands, this one’s for you. We sat down with Kendall Brookes, a 32-year-old mum from the sunny East Coast of New Zealand, to hear how the HipSurfer has transformed her parenting days with 11-month-old Margot and 4-year-old Blake.
Meet Kendall and Her Little Velcro Baby
Family life for Kendall, Margot, and Blake is all about being outside. "We love the beach, outdoor adventures, and visiting friends," she says. Living in a warmer climate makes getting out easier - but juggling a toddler and a baby still comes with its challenges.
Margot, her youngest, is what Kendall affectionately calls a “Velcro baby” - always wanting to be held and part of the action. "Which I love! But my back doesn’t love it quite as much," she adds.
Why the HipSurfer Caught Her Eye
Scrolling Instagram one day, Kendall stumbled across the HipSurfer and thought: "I need that in my life." At the time, she was over swapping hips, sick of the back pain, and didn’t want the fuss of a bulky pram or complicated carrier just to nip into the shops.
"I wanted something that didn’t involve a million straps and wouldn’t feel like a workout just to put on," Kendall explains.
First Impressions: Not Bulky. Just Brilliant.
"I love my HipSurfer!" she says. "I was expecting it to feel chunky, but it’s surprisingly compact - and SO supportive." The instant relief on her back was what sold it. Plus, the quality and durability have been a big win.
Top 5 Ways It’s Changed the Game
-
Back Relief on Repeat
"This has been a total game-changer while out and about - especially in and out of the car for errands." -
Zero Faffing
"No more faffing with straps or setting up the pram, especially in the rain. Everyone’s happier." -
Easy to Store
"No dangling straps. It folds into a tidy little circle - just chuck it in the car or cupboard." -
Stylish Covers
"I love that I can match my HipSurfer to my outfit. It’s a small thing, but it makes a difference." -
Built-In Storage
"Phone, keys, wipes, snacks - it fits all the essentials without needing a nappy bag."
What Does Margot Think?
"She LOVES it. As soon as I pop her on, she’s instantly looking around, excited. She knows she gets to be in the action." Kendall started using the HipSurfer at 11 months but wishes she had it from the newborn days. "Margot was a spilly baby who cried a lot - this would’ve made those long nights so much easier."
When It’s Saved the Day
-
Beach walks
-
Quick errands ("Perfect for grabbing one or two things without dragging a pram")
-
Cooking ("Margot loves to watch, and I can put her down easily when she’s done")
-
Travelling ("Compact enough to stash in the car and grab when needed")
-
Chores ("Safer than holding her on my hip, especially when carrying other stuff")
Pro Tips from Kendall
-
Use it outside the house. "I get so many compliments on it. One woman thought I had secret superpowers until she noticed Margot was sitting on a seat."
-
Play around with the fit. "Try it higher or lower on your waist until it clicks. Your back will thank you."
Is Dad a Fan?
While Kendall is the designated wearer, her husband is a top-tier support crew. "He always makes sure it’s packed. Every outing he asks, ‘Do you want the HipSurfer?’ The answer is always yes."
For the Parents on the Fence…
"If you’re already hip-swapping all day and your back is feeling it - this is in a league of its own. It’s faster than strappy carriers and more supportive than your arm. If you’re wondering if you’ll actually use it: I promise, you will."
Ready to Upgrade Your Carry Game?
Kendall’s story is a reminder that parenting doesn’t have to be back-breaking. With the HipSurfer, it's possible to hold your baby close, stay mobile, and actually feel good doing it.
Find Kendall on Instagram here
How Bubka Founder Alicia Uses the HipSurfer to Power Through Parenting, Pumping & Velcro Baby Life
Bubka founder and mum of two, Alicia, knows what it’s like to juggle pumping, parenting, and a baby who never wants to be put down. Discover how the HipSurfer became her everyday lifesaver—making daycare runs, dinner time, and cuddly chaos way easier (and way less painful).
How One Mum Navigated Hip Dysplasia (and Saved Her Back) With the HipSurfer
When Maddi’s daughter Sophia was diagnosed with hip dysplasia, babywearing became a challenge until the HipSurfer came along. From daycare walks to hospital appointments, find out how this back-saving hipseat helped Maddi navigate braces, contact naps, and everyday chaos with a whole lot more ease (and fewer sore arms).
How to Comfort a Sick Baby Who Won’t Let You Put Them Down
Sick baby. Clingy day. Numb arms. If your little one refuses to be put down when they're teething, feverish, or full of snotty snuggles, you're not alone. The HipSurfer hipseat baby carrier is your back-saving sidekick.
