I have had issues with this backpack. I have a camo pattern I got last school year, so we are 1.5 school years into this bag. I was anticipating a long life but first the hanging loop frayed and started to pullout. I was sad but there was no good patterns for a boy, so we stuck with it. Now the front pouch zipper has broken.
I will return it and that is good, but I will have to have no pack for 6 weeks so in the end I have to buy another backpack as we can't be without a bag.
On the other hand, it looks brand new. The fabric is durable, the print still looks nice. If the bag's structure had worked out it would still be a nice bag. Too bad the zipper and sewing wasn't up to par.
We bought one of these for our daughter last year as she was starting Kindergarten and now she is in first grade, it looks the exact same. Great shape, straps look fine, zippers are fine and no holes anywhere. From what I can tell, this should be easily able to last her through elementary school.
I recently purchased this backpack then had it sent to my niece who was about to enter pre-kindergarten. My review is based upon the thank-you note that I received.
It is pink. She is able to stuff all of her toys in it. It is pink. She likes the reflector and the monogram (in her case initials). It is pink. The zipper is good, as is the front pocket. It is pink.
ProsDurable, Great Value, Performing as Expected, strong enough for boys!
I have purchased three LL Bean Backpacks, 2 of which are these Original Junior Backpacks. I have three rough boys. The moment I received these packs and felt thier material, I knew I had a quality product. It is just strong and well-made. All three of my boys are on their second school year of using their packs, and we have no complaints. They are rugged. The zippers don't get stuck or broken. We use them all the time. I can't wait to buy another one, but at this rate, I'm not sure when we'll need it! And YES! I have recommended this to my friends, adn they have purchased them as well.
