The Best Nike Kids' Backpacks for Back to School

Buying Guide

The best back-to-school backpacks from Nike are designed to set kids up for success all year long. Find a durable, spacious and easy-to-carry backpack that will get the kid in your life excited to return to the classroom.

Last updated: 20 July 2022
4 min read
The Best Nike Kids’ Backpacks for Back to School

The best back-to-school backpacks should be built for both learning and play. That means providing enough space and compartments for kids to organise their books and school supplies, while also being comfortable for little ones to carry between classes and activities.

For health and safety, the Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital recommends choosing backpacks with wide, padded shoulder straps and lightweight, durable materials, such as nylon. The recommendations also note that, when it comes to sizing, the backpack should fall 5cm above the waist and not weigh more than 4.5kg.

Picking out a backpack for the new school year can be fun for kids. Beyond being functional, Nike backpacks come in a range of colours and designs to help kids show off their style and personality. Check out the best back-to-school backpacks from Nike, plus tips for finding the right one for the child in your life.

(Related: The Best Way to Wash a Backpack, Whatever the Material)

The Best Nike Back-to-School Backpacks

  1. 1.Nike Kids' Mini Backpacks

    The Best Nike Kids’ Backpacks for Back to School

    On the smaller side, an 11-litre mini backpack can fit a few books and other small school essentials, like art supplies. Some styles, like the Nike Brasilia JDI, offer zip pockets, water-bottle storage and padded shoulder straps for comfort.

    This size would work well for younger students (think: preschool or early primary school) who don't yet carry a load of school supplies, objects or toys needed for extracurricular activities and playdates.

  2. 2.Nike Kids' Mid-Size Backpacks

    The Best Nike Kids’ Backpacks for Back to School

    If you're looking for a mid-size kids' backpack, check out a 16-litre or 20-litre backpack. These styles, including the Nike Classic Kids' Backpack (16L) and the Nike Kids' Backpack (20L), can store additional school items, such as a tablet, lunch box or change of clothes, but they're still compact enough for small bodies to comfortably carry throughout the day.

    Both of these backpacks feature adjustable, padded straps and a zip front pocket. As a bonus, the Nike Kids' Backpack comes with a removable pencil case and a haul loop as an alternative carrying option.

  3. 3.Nike Kids' Large Backpacks

    The Best Nike Kids’ Backpacks for Back to School

    For older kids or any kids who require additional storage for bigger school supplies, like a laptop, opt for a 24-litre backpack. The Nike Future Pro 24-litre backpack has a roomy main compartment with a 15-inch laptop sleeve, plus two front pockets and an extra fleece-lined zip pouch for valuables. The side pockets can store water bottles, so kids can stay hydrated on the go, and the adjustable straps are padded for a comfortable and snug fit.

  4. 4.Nike Kids' Drawstring Backpacks

    For PE, sport or other after-school activities, a drawstring backpack can be useful for kids to have on hand. They're lightweight and packable, and they help keep kids' sweaty clothes separate from other school items in their backpack. The drawstring closure ensures items stay secure for carrying, while the water-resistant fabric means you can leave it on the bleachers or the sidelines whatever the weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Size Backpack Does a Child Need?

According to Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, kids' backpacks should fall 5cm above their waist. Also, kids' backpacks should not weigh more than 4.5kg, so make sure you don't overstuff a child's backpack. It's a good idea to clean out the backpack on a regular basis so that there aren't unnecessary items adding to the backpack's weight.

What Backpacks Are Best for Back to School?

Nike offers a range of backpack sizes for kids, from 11 litres of storage up to 24 litres of storage. The Nike Brasilia JDI is a mini, 11-litre backpack with zip pockets, water-bottle storage and padded shoulder straps for comfort.

Mid-size styles, including the Nike Classic Kids' Backpack (16L) and the Nike Kids' Backpack (20L), can store additional school items, such as a tablet, lunch box or change of clothes. On the larger side, the Nike Future Pro 24-litre backpack features a roomy main compartment with a 15-inch laptop sleeve.

Words by Lindsay Frankel

Originally published: 18 July 2022

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