Backpacks: The NY Times Gear Test

Our kids may all want the cool (or really cute) backpack, but what really matters is how comfortable it is when carrying books around.  In the Physical Culture section of yesterday's  NY Times, there was a “Gear Test” featuring backpacks that is worth reading and sharing.  An 11 year old, or entering seventh grader, tested 5 popular backpacks carrying 13 pounds of school supplies.  His father, the associate director of the Spine Institute of New York, also provided his perspective.   The article references the American Physical Therapy Association that claims a child should carry no more than 15% of their body weight on their backs to avoid injury.  The five backbacks reviewed include: Jansport Perfect Score $40, LL Bean Rolling Deluxe Book Pack $79.95, Lands' End Featherlight Backpack $39.50, Pottery Barn Mackenzie Rolling Backpack $59, Ergoworks Airpack Small $44.96.   To read the reviews and see the winners, click here to read the article.