I purchased this item for myself as an adult college student. I will admit that I was concerned when it got here because it is so lightweight but it has held up well after a year on campus. My 1st thought was "let’s see if it makes it a year" so I waited to post a review, but it still looks new a year later despite the weight of college textbooks! No fading (mine is black) or tears, even though I pull it on gravel. I am 5'6" and wear heels and have no issue w/handle length. I lift it by the rolling handle when I go upstairs and have had no issues with that. I also carry my purse attached to the handle. While there is no water bottle holder (wish there were), the pocket that holds the straps in the back holds mine perfectly (w/straps tucked in as well) & my bottle is full sized! The rain cover on the zipper does catch but that is not a flaw, as even clothing will do the same thing if you don't watch it. Still, it could stand to be double in size & that would prevent it. I carry a laptop, iPad and college text books, as well as everything you would need for a small office and it all fits & is still lightweight. It is just as durable as a heaver fabric without the added weight. I have never seen ANY of the problems listed here and I read them all before my purchase. Now that I have tested it, I will be purchasing it for my two youngest daughters who will be entering Jr. High in the fall. My only concern is if it will fit in their lockers (based on another review).
We replaced our sons first rolling back pack twice in the same school year. Then my neighbor told me about L.L. Bean and the durable bags they have. The first bag has almost completed the second school year and could possibly go another! I am really impressed that they have lasted so long and still performs as if it was just purchased. My second son's bag is only 1 year old and could use a good scrub but if he hasn't broken it yet that says a lot to me. I am ready to buy again. I hope they bring more patterns and colors.
ProsDurable, Great Value, Performing as Expected, kid tough, mom approved
We are using this backpack now for 5 years this year she is in 6th grade. It still looks new and she uses it all the time for school as well as trips. No lockers at school so everything goes in it in the morning, gym clothes, books and sometimes even her lunch. This year is the first time she has stairs to go up and down so we will see how it fairs at he end of this year.
