This school year, save your kid’s back

Borealis

The North Face

Benefits: Although the padding on the straps is not as thick as on others listed here, the angled front bottom on these daypacks positions the load higher on the back, helping your child carry the load of the pack more efficiently. It also has the hip belt feature that can be tucked away if it is too “fanny pack” for your child. The pack also features a utility pocket for a laptop and/or hydration system, and has two side pockets for water bottle storage.
Style: These bags aren’t the most beautiful, but they get the job done. While they are a little more utilitarian, they do come in eight color options beyond black and blue.
Cost: $69.00, plus tax
Web site: www.thenorthface.com
Available at North Face retail stores

Eastpak Authentic Padded Pak’r
Benefits: The shoulder straps on this one are thicker than some of the other choices, and the bag has a moderate amount of back padding as well. It’s also more lightweight than some of the bulkier options, weighing in at a little over one pound. The cost of this one can’t be beat, either.
Style: The patterned choices push this beyond a typical WalMart backpack, as Eastpak offers graphic print options. Your child can choose their favorite from the 22 choices available (“collage” is shown to the right) to customize the bag to fit their look. It’s also got some reflective devices like the zipper pulls, so it’s good for foot or bike commuting at dusk. 
Cost: $29.99, plus tax
Web site: usa.eastpak.com
Available at select Vans retail stores, 6pm.com or ebags.com

Dakine

Dakine

Benefits: This bag has room for the “extras”: a padded music organizer and fleece-lined sunglasses pocket. It’s also good for campus and/or travel purposes. The straps are pretty well padded, but the back padding is the real clincher here: beyond comfortable for extended periods of time, conforming to the wearer’s back shape.
Style: The Dakine line comes in various forms and styles. Our favorite is the Explorer, as it exhibits a youthful design sense represented in the compartments for tech stuff. The color choices again are varied, including some really nice plaids. Not only are they unique, but they are not too bright or overdone, and can be worn by either gender.
Cost: $50.00  to 75.00, plus tax
Web site: dakine.com
Available at Helly Hansen retail stores or ebags.com

Craig McKenney is a teacher and writer who lives in Seattle, WA.

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