This item is typical of LLBean Products: The item has been well thought out in design for use by the age group it was designed. Balance: i.e. size of wheels, with of base for better balance, handle ease of folding, strength in design, square rather than round. The quality material should enable it to last a couple of years. What appears to contribute to it's longevity is simply its design for use. Why 4 Stars rather than 5 Stars one flaw! The rain cover on the zipper is very tight at the top of the large opening as a result it hinders easy opening and closing of the zipper by an adult much less a 8 yr old. It was necessary to fold back the material covering the zipper at the top of the opening to obtain the normal operation of the zipper.
I love the size, durability, and color choice for my kindergarten daughter. However, the T-bar handle continues to get stuck in both the down and half way extended positions. I'm going to have to return it, but I've ordered another one. Hopefully it will work perfectly this next time.
Overall, this is a wonderful backpack. The quality is what you'd expect from LL Bean. I wish the retractable handle was longer and that there was more space inside the backpack. When my daughter starts middle school and has more "stuff", including a lunch box, I think she will need something bigger.
This backpack is a great improvement on my daughter's previous one--the wheels are solid and roll smoothly and relatively quietly. The handle extends smoothly and makes the backpack easy to maneuver. The capacity is certainly enough for 1st grade, and a friend's daughter in 3rd grade uses hers for her more voluminous books and papers. The zippers are (as I have come to expect from LL Bean) sturdy and easy to open and close.
