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Backpack Links
Some schools require clear or mesh backpacks, so the contents are easy to monitor. The JanSport Mesh Pack (*Est. $25) gets reasonably good reviews. As you'd expect at this price, the padded straps are straight rather than contoured, but this mesh backpack does have side pockets for water bottles. Total capacity is 2,000 cubic inches -- enough for most students. Owners reviewing backpacks at Walmart.com give good ratings to the less expensive Eastsport mesh backpack (*Est. $9) and Eastsport clear backpack (*Est. $9), which also come with side pockets for water bottles.
As recently as December 2007, ConsumerReports.org found dangerous levels of lead in some clear plastic backpacks designed for kids. The article notes that exposure to sunlight and heat can release lead embedded in plastics, so it's best to avoid such products. For more information, see the December 2007 back issue. The article is also available to online subscribers.
For school backpacks, JanSport has a detailed pack capacity chart to help calculate how much volume is needed.
About.com publishes a useful article by Chris Adams, "Before You Buy a Child's Backpack," with tips for choosing and fitting a school backpack.
Also from About.com, Wayne Parker writes a buyer's guide for rolling backpacks, "Before You Buy a Rolling Backpack."
Backpack safety is an ongoing concern, especially for kids. Whether or not heavy school backpacks cause back pain in children is a controversial issue. A May 21, 2003, article in ScienceDaily details a University of Michigan study of elementary and middle school children that found kids carrying heavier loads, or using only one strap, experienced no more back pain than other kids did. Rather, back pain seems to be associated with obesity and lack of activity.
A lot of information is available online about backpack safety, including BackpackSafe.com. KidsHealth.org also provides a detailed overview of problems backpacks can pose and how to remedy them.
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons offers tips for the proper use of backpacks, including how to pack and carry them to prevent back and neck pain.
Backpack Manufacturers
Eastsport (Wal-Mart)
Router (eBags)
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