Backpacks

For all you parents out there, “back-to-school” is a joyful, but also painful process. It’s joyful because you’re finally getting the kids back to a normal routine, learning and transitioning them into responsible young adults. At least that’s what we tell ourselves. On the painful side, we don’t mean physical pain, but rather financial in nature. Back-to-school spending is big business for retailers, as one kid alone can have parents spending up to $500 or more. Yet, despite the financial setback, one of the more pleasurable purchases during any “back-to-school” is the backpack. Backpacks have always had a more free, independent spirit to them. By this we mean you can really define your identity by the style, design and colors of your backpack. Some are extremely bland, all one color with a standard design. While others are wild, featuring crazy designs, sayings, pockets where pockets shouldn’t be found, etc. Backpacks first hit the scene in 1938. The company, Gerry Outdoors, brought a sack with a zipper to the market, and these were used for camping, hiking, and similar activities. Kids began to use these packs for school come the 50s, and by the mid-70s literally every kid across the US had a backpack. The manner in which kids wore their backpacks changed over time. Some preferred two shoulder loops, while others carried them hanging off one shoulder. This changed decade to decade, but at the end of the day, there’s only a handful of ways to carry a backpack. The functionality is what matters, and perhaps that is why the style and designs have exploded over the past couple decades. In 2020 the array of backpack brands and models is otherworldly. We’re going to run through some of the more popular, but do know that this is just the tip of the iceberg. Herschel Supply Co. Based out of Canada, Herschel is certainly not the flashiest brand, not by a long shot. But they’re functional, extremely sturdy, and beloved by teens and adults alike. Herschel packs come in a range of colors, but the traditional black canvas bag and the brown leather band covering the bottom is the classic. JanSport It would be difficult to find anyone who hasn’t heard of or owned a JanSport. Kids have been hauling their books and lunches around in these packs since 1967. JanSport is so popular that it’s made its way into rap songs. That’s a feat in itself! Storage space is why folks love JanSport backpacks, and while larger than most backpacks, kids still seem to dig them. Fjällräven Not the easiest name to neither write nor say, Fjällräven is a Swedish company that is well known in the US based on the popularity of their Kånken bag. You might have recognized their red artic fox logo, typically on sale at Urban Outfitters. If not, the next time you’re out keep an eye peeled. These bags are everywhere, and kids rave about not only the functionality, but they also look great as well. Under Armour Lastly, a brand that is more renowned for its athletic wear, believe it or not Under Armour has been making inroads on the backpack side as well. These are very lightweight bags, perfect for everyday school or work use, but not ideal for hauling anything too cumbersome. In fact, the biggest backpacks in the Under Armour product line can only fit a medium size laptop. But again, great for everyday, light use. From here, respected brands like The North Face and others are also great choices. “Back-to-school” never has to be a dull affair with backpacks. And if you want to keep that inner child in you alive, strap one on for work as well. You’ll get a great reaction, guaranteed!