My teenagers have used this backpack for school for the last three years. We recently purchased two more to (hopefully) make it through the next three years. It was very durable and both of the boys liked it. They especially liked the zippered section on the bottom that was used for gym clothes for football practice, and it was large enough to fit all of their schoolbooks, too.
I ordered this pack for my 8th-grade daughter, who has to transport books, binders, cleats, sports uniform stuff, and lunch to and from school, the soccer field, and home each day. Other backpacks weren't cutting the mustard. This one is BIG, has neat separate compartments (in her case great for cleats & uniform), and is of the usual sturdy high quality of LL Bean. At first my daughter was a bit daunted by the sheer size of this pack, but having taken it on a couple of summertime trips, she really likes it. I would think it would be too big for a kid 10 or under.
Love this backpack. I'm an on the go professional who prefers a backpack to a briefcase or messenger bag. The double outside pockets are great for small items I need to get to quickly. Underneath "pocket" holds a couple of books for easy access and even a windbreaker.
I'm 5'4" and the straps are placed just right for me. Slipped them right on straight out of the package with no problems.
I ordered this for my son to take to camp and he loves it. We fit a ton of stuff in there....all 3 pairs of his shoes fit in the bottom compartment. Very sturdy, so will be great for school as well.
