Basic run-down... This backpack is well-constructed, very sturdy, and comfortable to use. I like cool colors, so I find the color scheme attractive and sufficiently low-key. The straps are wide near the top and impressively padded. Even when loaded to capacity (which is deceptively large-this backpack is huge!), it exerts minimal pressure on my shoulders. The back is also heavily padded and purportedly better ventilated, but it doesn't mean you won't sweat like crazy on a hot, humid day. (: Despite the daily abuse I inflict upon it, the backpack shows very little wear.And... Swiss Gear does NOT advertise this as waterproof or -resistant, and even goes as far to say "spot-cleaning only." But between you and me... (: I've gotten caught in the rain--and I'm talking 100% drenched to the skin-several times. The backpack is indeed quite water-resistant. The top edges of my notebooks in the main zipper got a bit damp, as did the objects in the frontmost pocket, but everything else (including my computer) stayed relatively safe and dry.
As a college student, I carry my new lightweight laptop everywhere I go-it's my baby. (: So I wanted to keep it safe from spiral-bound books and other scary scratchy things. This backpack has a laptop pouch in the main compartment plenty big enough for my 13" computer. There's a velcro strap for added security. I never use it, however, as my computer stays put and is still in perfect condition. I also love the included key fob. I added it to my keychain, and now I always know where my keys are-no digging through a stuffed bag. (: The actual clip mechanism also shows no sign of wear-my bike lock's key is nearly destroyed, but the backpack clip looks perfect. (Another testament to Swiss Gear's quality. They don't cut corners anywhere!)
I also carry a menagerie of pens, pencils, and highlighters in the organizer pocket. My only complaint here is that writing utensils don't like to stay in their holders unless they're clipped in. As a result, my pens and pencils tend to collect in the largest pocket, and I have to dig around for the one I need. It helps to put two pens in the same holder, but again, they eventually migrate to the big pocket. (: Another thing I like is the "hidden" zipper compartment on the front of the backpack. In theory, it's a great place to put things like your wallet, checkbook, etc. to hide them from pickpockets, but if your entire backpack is stolen, it's safe to assume you won't see these things again. (: So this is a pretty neutral feature, I suppose.
This backpack has two drawstring-style drink holders. I usually carry a large, top-heavy container. I'm paranoid and frequently check to make sure I've still got it, but I have yet to see it fall out. As an extra precaution, I'd pull the drawstring tight. (:
And now... The bad. I can only think of a quote from A Very Potter Musical:
"You know who I think is the ugliest girl in school? That Hermione Granger. You know what I'd give her on a scale of 1 to 10-where 1 would be the ugliest and 10 is pretty? I would give her... an 8. ...8.5... NOT over a 9.8. Because there is always room for improvement."
1) The backpack is really front-heavy when sitting on the ground. If I don't prop it up against something, it will invariably fall over and usually toss my bottle from the drinkholder for good measure.
2) If I have a cold drink in the drinkholder, it will soak the bottom corner of the backpack with condensation. The drinkholders could be better insulated, if only to prevent this.
3) The pen/pencil holders could be longer or more elastic, so that they have more of a grip.
And that's about it! I was a little leery of the price tag when I bought this backpack, but I definitely don't regret it. This is a incredibly high-quality product worth every penny. I don't think you'll be sorry. (:
P.S.: Apologies if this isn't as coherent as it could be; I tried to edit, but you know.. This is one of my no-brain days. (;
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