Rated 5 out of 5 by hollyml Great 'next step' backpack
My son started middle school last fall, and toward the end of the year he finally decided that he'd like a new backpack. His old one is also from LL Bean but is the simpler Book Pack style; it's still fully functional -- just a bit faded and stained, which is understandable given he's had it since kindergarten, and treats it none too gently! But I was willing to replace it, after more than six years, with this North Ridge pack which he liked for its more teenage-cool styling. The pocket arrangement works better for a middle schooler's greater load of multiple subjects, more homework, and PE clothes, and the bungee straps do come in handy for a sweatshirt or jacket. The side water bottle pockets will be great for summer travel too! It's comfortable for him to wear, and I have no doubt that this one will last through high school. My one criticism? I wish there were a place to have it monogrammed.
June 15, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by canyongal Sturdy but not too big!
I bought these packs as book bags for my teenage twins. They are the perfect size for school and sturdy too. Not as large as ones we had before but my daughters say they are just right. The laptop sleeve is a nice touch and doubles as back protection. If you can't fit it in this pack, you should be carrying less!
June 5, 2013
Rated 4 out of 5 Knapsack on my Back!
Exactly as advertised. Excellent construction. OK weight. Arrived on schedule; packing excellent as usual for llBean! Pack is a bit long for me, but I am short! Holds plenty. Easy to pack items and to then find items. High recommend.
June 5, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by akobayan Backpack
Is a comfortable fit, has plenty of space for various items including the computer. Good for commuting.
May 25, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by MFLonster There is no downside
Great backpack that excels in every area. It is deceivingly roomy when compared to the online picture and could hold much more gear than I anticipated. Great for day hikes, campus, or just looking cool.
May 22, 2013
Rated 3 out of 5 by dtsix good quality
Purchased for my son. He's a teenager. Not really big enough. Would highly recomend a larger bag for high school age.
May 15, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by Customer1234 Stylish as a book bag
My 13-year old son chose this bag for his school bag. He thinks this one is more stylish than the other book bags (e.g. LL Bean Deluxe Book Pack) which look more square shaped than this one. He is loving it since been purchased 3 weeks ago. It is large enough to carry all of the books, folders etc for a 7th grader. The bag is light weight and looks very well made. I expect it to last for a very long time.
May 15, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by johnsonmtn High quality backback
This is an awesome backpack for day hikes or for traveling. It has lots of different compartments, and it seems to be very well made. I like the bungee cords on the front-- very useful feature.
Very good value considering the quality.
May 12, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by ClassV Good Backpack
Purchased to corral my granddaughter's riding equipment. Does that well.
May 6, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by coloradoschoolkid slim 5th grader school pack
This pack is a great fit for my 5th grader.It is not too large and bulky but provides many pockets on the exterior for small school necessities. The bulk of the pack is 8 inches deep when full so this is not a "big" pack. The inside has partitions to organize, when one section is full, the other sections lose space. One 3 ring binder, big hard cover library book, wind/snow pants, snack bag and 6 folders and it is full.
The exterior straps are good to use with carabiners to attach stuff and can be used to easily attach a bulky coat, snow pants, etc.
Perfect for a day hike.
Reinforced bottom that is black is keeping it nice looking.
Zippers and pulls work very nicely.
If I could, I would change the waist strap: It has a plastic clip and when it is not in use (which is almost always) it is at the base of the back so that it is against the kids' tail bone. My daughter does not notice but maybe with just a Tshirt and a long wear, it may be an issue. Then again, if she were to need to wear it for a longer time, maybe she would use the waist strap and then the clip would be on the front. If LL Bean could change that clip, it would be a great improvement. If a kid uses the waist strap, there is no issue.
May 1, 2013