Top School Backpack Brands to Elevate Your Style

As the school year approaches, finding the perfect backpack becomes a top priority for students and parents alike. With a variety of brands offering innovation, comfort, and style, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. From classic designs to modern aesthetics, each brand brings its unique features to cater to different needs. If you're on the hunt for the best brands to consider for school backpacks, join us as we explore some of the top contenders below.

Illustration of school backpacks

Best brands of school backpacks in 2025

JanSport

JanSport is a leading brand in the school backpack market, boasting a significant 22% market share in the U.S. and a robust 44.1% share in the overall industry. Known for its high-quality, durable, and functional backpacks, JanSport enjoys a 96% customer recommendation rate, highlighting its strong reputation and customer satisfaction. The brand's popular products, such as the SuperBreak backpack, have garnered over 30,000 reviews, demonstrating widespread consumer engagement. JanSport's market share increased by 11.1% from January 2021 to October 2021, showcasing its ability to adapt to market trends. With a revenue of $1.2 billion, JanSport solidifies its position as a dominant player in the backpack industry. For more insights, visit their market share analysis.

Herschel Supply Co.

Herschel Supply Co. is a leading global accessories brand renowned for its high-quality and stylish school backpacks, particularly popular among teenagers and college students. Founded in 2009, the company has rapidly expanded, selling millions of bags in over 45 retail outlets globally and expecting to sell 6 million units by 2016. Herschel's brand positioning as "The Well Traveled" backpack has been highly successful, with a strong presence in social media and collaborations with influential brands. The company's products are known for their modern design, functionality, and affordability, with prices often under $100. Herschel's commitment to sustainability and quality has made it a favorite among students and travelers alike.

North Face

The North Face is a leading brand in the backpack market, particularly renowned for its high-quality school backpacks. The brand's strong presence in North America, driven by the surging demand for lightweight and compact backpacks, has contributed significantly to its market dominance. By 2027, the backpack market, in which The North Face is a key player, is estimated to reach $23.4 billion, growing at a CAGR of 2.6% from 2022 to 2027. The North Face's products cater to both students and outdoor enthusiasts, capitalizing on the increasing recognition of outdoor activities and the need for durable, functional bags. The brand's commitment to innovation and use of high-strength materials like nylon and polyester further enhances its market position. For more details on their diverse offerings, visit The North Face backpacks.

Fjällräven

Fjallraven is renowned for producing high-quality school backpacks, particularly the iconic Kanken series, which was introduced in 1978 to address back pain issues caused by poorly crafted backpacks. The Kanken backpack quickly gained popularity, with sales doubling the initial target of 200 units in the first year and reaching 30,000 units the following year. Made from durable, lightweight Vinylon-F fabric, Kanken backpacks are water and dirt-resistant, making them ideal for school, work, and travel. The brand has expanded its product range to include various styles such as the Kanken Mini, Kanken Laptop 15", and Re-Kanken, catering to diverse needs. Fjallraven's commitment to sustainability and quality has made it a leading choice in the school bags market.

Patagonia

Patagonia, although not primarily known for school backpacks, is a renowned brand for its high-quality and environmentally conscious outdoor gear. While it does not dominate the school backpack market, Patagonia's commitment to sustainability and durability makes its products appealing to a wide range of consumers. The global backpack market, which includes school backpacks, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2024 to 2032, reaching a market value of $27.82 billion by 2032. Patagonia's focus on innovative design and eco-friendly materials aligns with the growing demand for sustainable products. However, the top vendors in the backpack industry include Adidas, VF Corporation, and Samsonite, among others. For more details about their environmentally conscious outdoor gear, visit the Patagonia website.

Under Armour

Under Armour is a leading brand in the athletic apparel and accessories market, including school backpacks, known for its innovative and high-quality products. As of Q3 2024, Under Armour holds a market share of 2.69% in the apparel, footwear, and accessories industry. The brand's products are designed to enhance performance and comfort, making them a popular choice for students. Under Armour's partnership with educational institutions, such as the University of Hawai'i at Hilo, further underscores its commitment to providing top-notch gear for various activities. With a global presence and a strong reputation, Under Armour continues to be a trusted name in the backpack market. For more detailed information, visit their official website.

Eastpak

Eastpak is a renowned brand in the school backpack market, known for its durable and stylish products. Founded in 1952 as Eastern Canvas Products USA, Inc., Eastpak transitioned to a consumer brand in 1976 and has since become a market leader, particularly in Europe where France is its largest market. The brand is part of the VF Corporation and is celebrated for its innovative designs, including collaborations with notable fashion designers. Eastpak's products are designed to meet various needs, from school bags to travel gear, and are recognized for their quality and longevity, backed by a 30-year warranty. The brand's global presence and commitment to quality have made it a preferred choice for students and travelers alike.

Nike

Nike is a prominent player in the school bags market, known for its innovative and high-quality products. The company's commitment to ergonomic design, driven by health consciousness, and its incorporation of advanced materials like nylon and polyester, contribute to its popularity. Nike's global reach and strong distribution channels, including a significant presence in online stores which account for around 40% of sales, enhance its market position. The brand's focus on consumer needs, as seen in its category approach realigned around Men's, Women's, and Kids' segments, further strengthens its market presence. With a projected market growth driven by increasing student enrollment and the rise of online retail, Nike is well-positioned to continue its dominance in the school bags market. For more details on their offerings, explore Nike's school backpacks.

Adidas

Adidas is a prominent player in the school backpack market, known for its innovative and ergonomic designs that cater to the needs of students. The brand's commitment to sustainability, as seen in its "End Plastic Waste" campaign, resonates with environmentally conscious consumers. Adidas' school backpacks are part of a broader market expected to reach $37.19 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.92% from 2025 to 2033. The brand's focus on key product areas, including backpacks, aligns with its mission to be the best sports brand in the world, leveraging its expertise in sports science and technology. With a strong online presence and strategic distribution channels, Adidas continues to be a top vendor in the global backpack industry.

SwissGear

SwissGear is renowned as one of the top producers of school backpacks, offering a wide variety of styles from travel and business bags to school and urban carry backpacks. Their products, such as the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart backpack, are TSA-friendly and feature padded edges and pockets for gadget protection. SwissGear backpacks are popular among students and working professionals due to their functional design and ergonomic features. The brand has seen significant growth, with a 132.7% increase in online revenue and a 14.1% year-over-year increase in holiday season conversion rates. SwissGear's products are generally priced between $50-100, making them an affordable and reliable option.