H.W.
My only issue with the patapum is that it is sized so small, you might not be able to use it for a toddler carrier.
Many moms swear by the Ergo. We chose a Beco carrier as it adjusts enough to fit both myself (nearly 5') and my 6' husband and we didn't want to buy two carriers for one baby.:) The design has been modified to make it very, very safe getting baby in and out, and the beautiful fabric panels are a plus (esp when you are wearing a milk-stained shirt under it). I used this carrier with my son from 6 weeks until he was nearly 2.5. Lots of padding for the head, but no 'head catcher' -- a hat works just as well for shade.:)
http://www.becobabycarrier.com/