KEEN Ellwood Backpack | Review

KEEN Ellwood Daypack Review

In life, there are "briefcase people" and "backpack people". Which are you? I tried to be of the briefcase breed for years-it just never really felt right (too stodgy). I long ago made the decision to carry a backpack, slingbag, or just about anything other than a briefcase. Maybe you can relate. It's from that standpoint that I'm looking at the KEEN Ellwood Daypack.

NOTE: I've had this backpack for quite awhile and color options may have changed. The overall style and features remain constant.

Ellwood Features

Here are the highlights that I found useful. There are several more on KEEN's website that you can peruse.

• Holds up to a 15 inch laptop
• Weatherproof zippers
• Side compression straps
• Adjustable shoulder straps
• Grab handle

For starters, this backpack will hold a bunch of stuff, so whether you're a student or construction worker, this bag will likely carry just about everything you need during the course of your day.

I always felt like my 15" MacBook was well-protected in its separate (and well-padded) pocket. I'm really good at dropping things (and did in fact drop backpack and laptop on several occasions) and the fact that the computer is no worse for the wear speaks volumes.

Of course, if you're carrying your most valuable possessions, you want to make sure everything is safe from the elements. KEEN has done a great job at making the zippers (and the materials used in Ellwood's construction overall) strong enough to withstand some pretty harsh environments. In other words, short of throwing the backpack in a pool, your electronics will stay nice and dry.

Ellwood Versatility

I've traveled around the country and stuffed everything from hard drives to power tools into the Ellwood. Unfortunately, it doesn't make the backpack lighter when you carry all that stuff around, so the fact that the support system is fully adjustable is paramount.

I rarely use the waist belt, but it certainly aids in taking the weight of your belongings off your tired shoulders.

Finally, the grab handle is sturdy and has withstood the test of time. Kudos to those who sewed the seams. There were times I was deeply concerned that I'd overloaded the pack and that the handle could break. My worries were unfounded-it's still as sturdy as ever.

Ellwood Overall Recommendation

The KEEN Ellwood Daypack is not the least expensive backpack out there, but you definitely get what you pay for. If you want rugged construction, plenty of safe storage, and an overall stylish look, I'd recommend shelling out the cash. A cheap backpack will be of little consolation the day you drop it and your laptop pays the price.

*I'm also a believer in recycling (if you can use something over and over and in a cost-effective way, why not do it!). The lining and shell are both

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To view/purchase on Amazon: CLICK HERE