I bought this backpack for my Kindergartner in August after hearing great reviews. We were happy with the backpack until November when the zipper repeatedly got stuck in the fabric. Currently, I am unable to dislodge it. While I appreciate LLBeans customer service, I'm concerned that the zipper will continue to be a problem after reading other reviews. As expected, LLBean will exchange the backpack with no hesitation; however, I wonder how many times I'll be out >$6 shipping for a replacement. I'll give LLBean one more chance on this bag, then I'll spend my $6 shipping somewhere else.
I ordered the blue shark original book pack for my son for kindergarten. However, he only had the book pack less than two months and it started to rib at the shoulder strap. I had read a previous review that stated they felt that the patterned book packs were not as durable as the solid colors. In this case, that review seems true. I am in the process of returning this pack and replacing it was a solid color; hoping for longer durability.
My daughter LOVED this backpack when we ordered it for her to enter Pre-K. The pink flowers print was gorgeous and it is very well made. The problem we had was that the flap of fabric over the zipper kept getting stuck in the zipper. We bought the backpack in July for school to start in August and by October, the zipper was broken. Please LL Bean take the flap off! We called and LL Bean customer service is AMAZING! We were very upset that the pink flowers pattern was sold out, but we were able to order the Pink Butterfly Critter backpack for the same price even though it originally was a more expensive backpack. Now the lunch box doesn't match, but LL Bean has excellent customer service!
Wow! This backpack is stylish and durable. My first grader loves it! It's roomy enough for her folder, lunchbox, and jacket. My only complaint is that there aren't pockets for a water bottle.
