Kids with different colored backpacks walking to school
A good backpack is one of the most important back-to-school purchases. It needs to carry a full day's worth of books and supplies without causing discomfort. It needs to survive the school year without falling apart. And ideally, your child should actually want to carry it.
At Kol Kid, we've curated our backpack selection to focus on brands that deliver on all three fronts. Here are our top picks for back-to-school—backpacks that parents trust and kids love.
What Makes a Quality Back-to-School Backpack?
- Comfort : A padded, well-designed backpack makes a real difference over the course of a school day. Proper shoulder support prevents pain and keeps kids comfortable.
- Durability : Quality construction means the backpack survives spills, rough handling, and daily wear without falling apart mid-year.
- Organization : Smart compartments and dedicated pockets help kids stay organized and find what they need quickly.
- Practicality : Features like water bottle pockets and easy-to-clean materials make daily school life easier.
- Style : Kids are more likely to use a backpack they genuinely like. A design that resonates with them makes the backpack feel like their own.
Herschel: Comfort, Collaboration & Durability
Herschel has become a favorite among Toronto families for good reason. These backpacks deliver on comfort, style, and lasting quality.
What makes Herschel special:
- Padded shoulder straps that distribute weight evenly and prevent shoulder pain, even when fully loaded
- Expandable water bottle pocket that fits standard bottles without taking up backpack space when empty
- Easy-to-clean materials that resist staining and wash up quickly—practical when kids inevitably get their backpack dirty
- Fun collaborations with brands like Lego and Minecraft, so kids get a backpack that feels like an extension of their interests
- Reliable construction that holds its shape and rarely experiences zipper failures mid-year
Parents love Herschel because it checks multiple boxes: comfort for all-day wear, durability for years of use, and designs that kids actually want to carry to school.
Ocean & Ground: Minimalist Design & Lightweight Quality
Ocean & Ground brings thoughtful Japanese design to backpack construction. These backpacks prioritize smart, streamlined design that simply works beautifully.
What makes Ocean & Ground special:
- Lightweight design keeps kids from carrying unnecessary weight. The streamlined backpack means less bulk even when fully packed
- Japanese craftsmanship emphasizes functionality without excess. Every feature serves a purpose; nothing is added just for decoration
- Clean, timeless aesthetic that works across seasons and ages. The minimal design is understated and versatile, perfect for kids who prefer simplicity
- Durable construction means seams hold and materials endure. The lighter weight never compromises on quality or longevity
Parents love Ocean & Ground for the thoughtful design approach—it's a backpack that feels refined and intentional. Kids love that it doesn't feel like a trend that will look dated next year. It's the kind of backpack that works year after year, age after age.
Both Are Built to Last
Whether your family gravitates toward Herschel's playful collaborations or Ocean & Ground's minimalist elegance, both brands prioritize quality construction and durability. Either choice means your child has a backpack that will make it through the entire school year—and potentially beyond.
The real question isn't which brand is "better." It's which one speaks to your family's style and your child's personality. Both are solid investments in a quality back-to-school essential.
Size and Fit Matter Too
Regardless of brand, make sure the backpack fits your child's frame. A backpack that's too large will feel awkward and uncomfortable. The straps should sit flat against shoulders without digging in, and the backpack shouldn't extend below the waist.
Most quality backpacks come in different sizes for different age groups. Herschel and Ocean & Ground both offer options for younger elementary kids through teenagers.
Don't Forget the Accessories
A great backpack is just the start. Pair it with:
- A water bottle that fits the pocket
- A lunch bag to keep food organized
- A rain jacket for unpredictable Toronto weather
Check out our full back-to-school guide for everything else your child needs to start the year ready.
Shop Our Picks
Both Herschel and Ocean & Ground are available at Kol Kid. Stop by to see them in person, or browse our full Herschel collection and Ocean & Ground collection to find the perfect backpack for your child.
A great backpack makes back-to-school shopping feel less like a checklist and more like a genuine investment in your child's comfort and confidence. Come explore our picks and find the one that's right for your family.
Which backpack style resonates with your family? Stop by Kol Kid or comment below!