I bought each son one of these when he started first grade, with the understanding that it had to last through fifth grade. Last summer my oldest got a new deluxe original for sixth grade, but his first one still looks great. Younger son has one more year with his original before he upgrades. We have saved money by not buying a new backpack each school year. These things don't wear out! I work in a toy store and several times have told customers to look at LL Bean for the perfect backpack.
Purchased these for our kids in elementary school. My son took his pack when he went into the Navy. Friends asked where he got is nearly new pack. When they heard that it was about 15 years old, they bought packs for themselves. We have since bought larger packs, duffles, luggage, etc. and love them all.
My 8 year old son is just finishing up his third school year using this book pack and it still looks like new. I had bought my two daughters a different (and more expensive) brand and they have all but disintegrated, despite less frequent use and more careful handlers. I will be ordering them both this style for the next school year. I do wish it came in a larger variety of colors and prints.
