Swiss Army Backpack
The backpack dates to the dawn of time. Archeologists believe cavemen used backpacks to carry tools, hunting supplies and the day's kill. These backpacks were simply animal skins tied with the animal's intestines, but now they are somewhat more elaborate and may even contain a laptop.
The Swiss Army brand made by Victorinox and Wenger originally only included the Swiss Army knife of world renown, a timeless, durable and useful item. Now, however, these companies have diversified into watches, clothing, bags and even aftershave. The Swiss Army's famous Swiss cross logo is synonymous with rugged comfort and style.
The Swiss Army Backpack can be found in almost every shape or size, made from lightweight but sturdy material which allows for maximum strength without the bulk. They come in a selection of fashionable colours including beige, powder blue, camouflage green and even bright purple or pink.
Swiss Army backpacks follow three configurations. Frameless backpacks are merely sturdy cloth attached to two shoulder straps. These are highly popular with students, and come with many “extras” such as outside pockets and zippered compartments for small items like change, pencils or cancer sticks. The NHS deems some frameless backpacks unsuitable for children.
External frame packs are favoured by explorers and the military. Traditionally carrying heavy loads of 20kg (40lb) or more, they are made from cloth supported by lightweight aluminium poles which extend to the outside of the pack and permit the carriage of bulky items like tents, sleeping bags or thermal blankets. The backpack's material is lifted off the back, giving the cloth the ability to breathe, meaning the carrier sweats less, and making for better weight distribution than a frameless bag. The main compartment will be smaller than in an internal frame pack because space is sacrificed to allow bulkier items to be strapped on. Wooden pack frames have been in use for centuries, and Otzi the Iceman hay have used one in Copper Age Alpine Italy, although some people think it was a snowshoe.
The internal frame backpack was invented as recently as 1967 by Greg Lowe. Internal frame backpacks are similar to the external, differing in that the poles are heavier and located inside the cloth. Such packs are popular with campers and travellers. They are carried close to the body, bearing weight more on the hips and providing much freedom of movement: ideal for trekking on rough terrain, climbing or skiing. The material is heavier so the carrier will perspire more.
Backpacks have been made especially for laptops, cell 'phones, cameras and every other electronic gadget that exists. Many Swiss Army backpack come with wheels and a pull-up handle for easy movement on smooth surfaces. The brand includes rolling duffles, stylish messenger bags and business briefcases which can be converted into a backpack. A number of much-admired internal frame backpacks are available.
The Synergy Swissgear backpack comes at a reasonable price, with some online stores offering it for a mere $65. The airflow padding and comfort fit straps mean that 28 pounds of gear can be carried up and down many steps without leaving the bearer sore at the end of the week, and it can still accommodate a laptop with a 15 inch screen. A computer is held against the centre wall of the backpack, and not against the wearer's back, as with most other backpacks.
Each compartment is fully lined and the bottom is stiff. The CaseBase stabiliser platform allows the pack to sit more upright and can be flipped-up to conserve space. The computer pocket is particularly well-padded to protect your precious laptop. If you have ever experienced difficulty cramming your possessions into a backpack, there is plenty of room for textbooks and notebook accessories.
This model comes in red or black and can fit most 17 inch laptops, which are secured by an elasticised compression strap and padded sleeve. The innovative shoulder strap system provides for extra comfort, being ergonomically designed to contour with the shoulders. The airflow design gives extra padding for minimum back support, which is ideal for camping or travelling. Another pleasing feature is the abundance of extra compartments.
The Pegasus SwissGear computer backpack is highly versatile. It is built with high quality material on a rigid frame. Capable of accommodating a 17 inch laptop, it fits the Dell Inspiron e1705 perfectly and is perhaps the only backpack that will fit your Pavilion. It is better-suited for those who wish to store many possessions such as legal pads in an aethetically pleasing manner. Reviewers have described this bag as perfect. Body fatigue is reduced even when you ride a motorcycle.
The Maxxum Swiss Army backpack has many pockets for your valuables. The padded computer pocket will fit most 15 inch laptops, which is reassuring to know given that many people complain that their 15 inch laptops don't fit their bags. It will hold a notebook even with the extended battery protruding awkwardly. Any computer is protected by extra padding.
The main pocket is ideal for holding things to which you want ready access. The secondary pocket has a sheet at its bottom that can be folded down to flatten the base of the pack and increase space, easily fitting a binder and a book or two. The proliferation of pockets might lead one to believe that there is little space to actually carry anything, but this is not the case. The pocket at the top is the ideal storage location for an MP3 player and has a port through which to run a headphone cable. The mesh pockets at the sides are good for drinks.
Instead of the traditional Velcro strap, there is an elastic strap with a snapping clasp at the end which will endure longer than Velcro. There is flexibility in what can be carrried, while the unit is snug and stays in place. The Maxxum distributes its weight admirably, making it feel unusually light when worn.
If you're after an internal frame backpack, Swissgear is one of the leading brands.