July 2007
Backpacks for back to school
Most kids' backpacks can easily hold school necessities. But construction details do matter, at least to parents. A good pack
should have the following features:
Shoulder straps that are contoured and padded to soften the load.
A waist belt to stabilize the pack and transfer weight to the hips.
A padded or quilted back or one with mesh fabric to make the bag less sweaty on steamy days.
Compression straps on the sides to tighten a partially filled backpack.
Look for multiple pockets: small ones for a calculator, a cell phone, and keys, and a concealed inside pocket for cash.
Dual zippers for main compartment.
Waterproof, colorfast material.
WHAT ABOUT KIDS' BACKS?
In 2004, about 7,600 hospital-treated injuries in the U.S. were associated with backpacks, and the most vulnerable age group was 9- to 16-year-olds.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a loaded backpack should weigh no more than 10 to 20 percent of a child's total weight, though our experts recommend staying closer to 10 percent. The pack should be worn about 2 inches above the waist and with both shoulder straps, close to the body. Straps should be shortened (and the excess length fastened securely out of the way) so that they can't get stepped on or caught in doors. Reflective trim added to the back and sides of the pack adds visibility in the fall and winter months, when kids might travel to and from school in near-darkness.
Also see our free reports on bike helmets, booster seats, and kids' sunglasses for more information.
Shoulder straps that are contoured and padded to soften the load.
A waist belt to stabilize the pack and transfer weight to the hips.
A padded or quilted back or one with mesh fabric to make the bag less sweaty on steamy days.
Compression straps on the sides to tighten a partially filled backpack.
Look for multiple pockets: small ones for a calculator, a cell phone, and keys, and a concealed inside pocket for cash.
Dual zippers for main compartment.
Waterproof, colorfast material.
WHAT ABOUT KIDS' BACKS?
In 2004, about 7,600 hospital-treated injuries in the U.S. were associated with backpacks, and the most vulnerable age group was 9- to 16-year-olds.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a loaded backpack should weigh no more than 10 to 20 percent of a child's total weight, though our experts recommend staying closer to 10 percent. The pack should be worn about 2 inches above the waist and with both shoulder straps, close to the body. Straps should be shortened (and the excess length fastened securely out of the way) so that they can't get stepped on or caught in doors. Reflective trim added to the back and sides of the pack adds visibility in the fall and winter months, when kids might travel to and from school in near-darkness.
Also see our free reports on bike helmets, booster seats, and kids' sunglasses for more information.
