High Sierra Neo Backpack

I compared 4 High Sierra backpack models: Neo (this model), AccessHigh Sierra Access Backpack, Mayhem High Sierra Mayhem Backpack, and Incline High Sierra Incline Backpack. I'm a 5'2" woman. For my uses (carryon for travel/day hikes), I selected this Neo model. If they'd change the yoke style shoulder straps to 2 single shoulder straps, change accents from purple/gray to black, make the back access zipper 1/2 inch longer, and add side compression straps, it would be a perfect pack. The Yoke style straps tend to dig into the back of my neck unless I keep the pack at a lower position. All 4 packs had tags indicating that they could hold a 17" laptop. The Access and Incline could not hold my Dell 17" Inspiron. All 4 packs had pouches in the shoulder straps. The only pack that could hold my iphone in an otterbox case was this Neo model. Three of the models including this one, had a larger and probably more durable zippers than the Incline model. The padding on the bottom seems the same on all models. The raincover on the Access provides some extra padding when the raincover is in the hidden pouch. The padding on the backs of the packs seem to be about the same. I didn't use the packs, so I can't comment on the ventilation/airflow materials at the back of the packs.

Pros:

Fabric seems durable

Purple Print is great color

Pouch on shoulder strap (5.5"x3.5") fits iphone with or without case (largest pouch)

Does easily fit my 17" Dell Inspiron Computer. (16.5" L x 11.5)

Back access zipper for getting laptop in/out of pack. Zipper could be about ½ inch longer. It's tight, but it works.

Front vertically zippered pocket holds two 16-20 oz bottles or one 1000 ml nalgene bottle (if rest of pack is not fully loaded)

One of the bottom side zippered pockets can hold a drink, but the pocket extends into the interior of the pack taking up interior room.

4 zippered side pockets. Love this for easily accessible organization.

One Strap for attaching accessories to the front of the pack

Larger and hopefully more durable zippers on this model (smaller ones on Incline model)

Bigger than expected. Rated at just 2320 cu in, but held more than the Mayhem (2565) and Access (2743). My measurements are 20x13x10.5 (not counting side pockets) = 2730 cu in

Cons:

Yoke style shoulder straps dig into back of my neck. Need to keep pack lower than I'd like. Prefer 2 single shoulder straps.

No Adjustable side compression straps

Prefer the Black Accent on other models to the purple/gray accent on this model.

Back access zipper could be about 1/2 inch longer for easier removal of 17" laptop.

First month of high school and the back pack has been used every day. Holds a few 3-ring binders and a few books along with a water bottle, phone, id card, and more. It holds a lot and has many pockets and lots of organization. No problems so far. Great aqua color. Watch out, though. It holds so much you can bring too much and have a sore back after a few weeks of carrying everything. Leave extra or heavy items home if you can.

Update: 7th month of high school and still holding up! No holes. All zippers working well! Excellent school back pack for high school or middle school.

Buy High Sierra Neo Backpack Now

I'm always very skeptical with buying backpacks.. Especially online. However, i bought the High sierra Curve about 4 years ago and it lasted forever. That one was awesome. I wanted to try something new so i tried the Neo. And I think this one is as good if not better. I've used it for one semester of college so far and it seems to be holding up fine. Something that you can't see in the picture is that this backpack has so much space in the inside. I can easily fit my laptop, multiple large books, a bottle of water, rubick's cube, and numerous other of the things i keep in inside my backpack. Great backpack for the price!

Read Best Reviews of High Sierra Neo Backpack Here

Huge holds binders, computer, lunch bag, books and more. Has all the must-have features of the Swerve, but larger so son can haul all his goods to/from school.

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Has lots of compartments and the laptop area actually fits my huge Toshiba. Teal color is better in person, too.

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