I had hoped this backpack would last more than a few years for our then kindergartener, as our two-block walk to school is an easy one on sidewalks with no stairs. However, not only did the handle stop retracting but the back protector shield fell off. Then the actual brace for the handle starting coming out of the backpack. Pretty disappointed in the longevity of the backpack for the price we paid.
I bought this for my daughter as she enter 2nd grade, hoping that she could use it for many years. The backpack held up great and she able to use it for two years. Even though it still looks brand new, I am disappointed that she can't use it any longer. She is going into 4th grade and only 48" tall but the handle it too short for her now. I wish the handle was longer like many other high end competitor backpacks.
My daughter has had this rolling backpack for two years. Other than a dirty area around the top where she rests the zippers when closed, it's still in great shape(obviously just needs a cleaning!). It was not roomy enough for all of her books many times during 4th grade, but great during 3rd grade. My only true disappointment is that the handle would not retract after the first year of use. My daughter had to struggle to get the handle down when she used it in the rolling feature. If it wasn't for the handle, I'd be making her use it another year. We'll keep it for overnight trips or something.
I bought this backpack for my 6th grader who is on the small side for 11. It's made very well, construction and materials are solid. The wheels are small, so it rolls best on smooth concrete sidewalks, not dirt/rough. My only complaint - after a few scant months the blue faded to purple, which is not cool for a boy. It's pretty much unusable for another year due to appearance. Would have lasted if it wasn't such an eyesore!
