Hi
I found this Guide online that might give you a good idea of what to look for in a backpack considering what you might use it for !

There is no such thing as the perfect backpack for all activities and you will probably end up buying multiple backpacks

* volume - determine what volume you need to be able to bring the things you will need
Overloading a small backpack isnt really smart since you will have to much weight in one center
You should determine your needed volume for internal storage inside the backpack.

* Load Distribution - the heavier the load you will have to carry, the more technical features your backpack should have.
For heavier loads, you will definitely need a hip belt and the combined workings and adjustability of the shoulder harness, sternum strap, and the stabilizer straps.

* Specialized Gear - If you plan to take Snowshoes, Ice Axes, Crampons, Climbing Ropes, or other larger equipment then you might want to look for backpacks that have special pocket, straps, and cords configuration which will allow you to easily attach these pieces of equipment to the outside of your pack. There are even special backpacks that are designed to carry a snowboard, skis, or other bulky gear.

* Hydration System - Decide if you need your backpack to facilitate a hydration system or if you are just going to use bottles and other liquid containers. Keep in mind that drinking tubes and bladders can freeze up in extreme cold conditions.

* Waterproofness - It is best to prepare for the worst possible weather and moist conditions. Especially for activities like Canyoneering and Coasteering, you will want a waterproof backpack. Look for a backpack that comes with a splash cover or that has a separate fitting splash cover.

* Fit - It might seem strange to fit a backpack but it is definitely something that is very important. Most backpacks have adjustable hip belts, shoulder harness, and stabilizer straps but even then, the basic shape of the hip belt and shoulder harness could not be compatible with your body. In particular, women might want to look for backpacks that are developed for the female body.
Source(s):
http://www.abc-of-hiking.com/hiking-backpacks/backpack-buying-guide.asp

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Hey Rob!

My brother used to have tremendous problems with his back due to his heavy and uncomfortable backpack. Luckily enough, my dad is a chiropractor and had heard about a new (at the time) backpack that used air to shift the load off your shoulders and onto your lower back (which a hiker will tell you is ideal).

Here's a link to one site that sells them, though I'm sure you could find many more. Some of them have spots for laptops too which was a must for me once I hit college (don't know how old your kids are or how long you want the backpack to last).

The airpack backpack lasted my brother quite a while and seemed to work well for him. His back problems did lessen significantly after just a couple of weeks using the new backpack.

There's also the option of using a rolling backpack, but I wouldn't recommend it. While probably the best option as far as health goes, most kids wouldn't be caught dead with a rolling backpack. It's a school faus paux.

And also, yes, the Northface backpack is by far the "cool" backpack to get, and they are relatively good quality. Just know that they aren't really any better than any other brand out there in my experience. I do have a Northface hiking backpack that works pretty well.

The American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons also has some tips and recommendations for backpacks and backpack safety.
Source(s):
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00043

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Backpacks should weigh only one tenth or less of your kid's weight. I'd just get any backpack that they like and clean it regularly so it doesn't get too heavy with too many graded papers or whatever (little things add up). But if you know that the backpack will be heavy, you should go for a rolling one, so it doesn't throw their backs.
A good way to measure the weight of the backpack would be to get one of those things that you stand on to weigh yourself, and first have your kid stand on it without the backpack, record his weight, then have him stand on it with the backpack on his back or in his hands, and record. Subtract your child's original weight from his weight with the backpack.

Example-- child's weight child with backpack backpack
about 60 - about 67 = about 7

The backpack's weight is reasonable. If the child is around 60 pounds, the backpack should only be around 6 pounds (one tenth).
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It can be very tempting to buy a backpack with a lot of pockets to keep things in, but really it will just be tempting for your kids to carry a lot of things and add unnecessary weight. Also, all of the extra fabric and zippers will add a lot of weight. I would recommend lifting up the different backpacks to see which ones are the lightest.
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