Backpacks with decent support?

[Unexpected]

I have searched unsuccessfully for previous threads where I am sure someone recommended backpacks which provided some shoulder/back support for secondary age students? We are done with the fashion statements or the ones from TK Maxx, all of which seem to fall apart and which tend to hurt DS's shoulders and back after a while? Does anyone have any suggestions which are sturdy and have comfortable straps?

No specific recs sorry - but why not go to an outdoors place and try on hiking rucksacks, they should provide all the support needed.

North Face recon is the only bag DS1 and DS2 have tried that causes no back or shoulder pain, even walking three miles a day carrying several kg. Expensive, but worth it.

DS has an Eastpak (I think the model is Tutor) which we bought because it had chest and waist straps (not that he ever uses them) and he can fit his clarinet and his music in as well as school books and files. It's very robust and is lasting well.

I second North Face Recon, although DD struggles to fit it in her locker.

DS1's North Face bag has lasted 6 years of secondary school and is about to start a 7th, still in great condition. I gulped at the price when I bought it but it's been great value, and no back problems.

I like the swedish brand Fjallraven. The 'Kanken' backpack was designed in the 70s with schoolchildren's backs in mind, and is just as popular today as far as I can tell... nice understated design and fits a load of stuff without looking too big and strappy. DD loves hers anyway. Prob on the pricey side though.

Backcare approve one which i think you can get on John Lewis website

I bought a backcare rucksack for ds1 when he joined his school in year 7 It lasted a couple of weeks and backcare replaced it. The second rucksack lasted even less time so I bought a Billabong rucksack which has lasted until the end of year 11.

We may have been unlucky with backcare (and they may have changed since then) but I would avoid.

I third north face. DS carries everything everywhere and hardly feels it - though I groan a little if I ever have to move it out of the way as it weighs a tonne!
Going into third year of use & seems perfectly secure.

Eastpak come with a 30 year guarantee!

Slazenger do a good supportive one which they sell in sports direct for about £20 I think. DS has had his a year and is using it again next year, nice padded straps and back of bag which protects from things sticking in etc.