After reading all of the reviews, I purchased this rucksack for my 35 year old son who is an avid backpacker and will be going to grad school in the fall. I can't comment on durability etc., but my son (who owns several modern technical packs) said he loves the classic style and simple functionality of this pack. It was a greatly appreciated gift!
OK, I admit, it's an old-fashioned, charming bag. But, however much I admire the old time styling, which is great in theory, in reality this bag did not look like a good traveling bag which is what I was looking for - the one perfect carry-on for a 5-day trip of flights, ferries and biking. I am traveling to Southeast Alaska where it rains a lot. The size was perfect. The cotton felt thin and not substantial at all, and the wax I didn't feel would be enough to repel the rain and protect my stuff. Too few modern features to be practical. Too many buckles that don't quite have enough holes to cinch things up tight. Drawstings and buckles, instead of zippers, mean slower entry and exit when quick access is needed. Maybe good for a day pack or book bag (although it's pretty big for that). Stylish but not practical for my purposes.
I have returned this bad for a tougher more travel friendly backpack/carry-on.
This backpack is great for a student desiring a rugged look. The main compartment has plenty of storage for books, the two side and one front pockets hold calculators, pencils, water bottles, etc. and there is a zippered pocket on the inside of the backpack's 'lid' that has slots for holdings pencils and a small notebook. The padded back and shoulders straps make it very comfy, and the attached belt helps even the load. The waxed cotton easily repels rain.
My only complaint is that the shoulder straps begin weakening after a few years of use, but there is no sign that the straps are going to break or come loose.
