My 9-year-old son is very hard on backpacks -- he rides on them, throws them, and even occasionally uses them to bring his books home for homework.  When his last one expired, I looked around for a backpack that might last through Elementary School (2 more years after this one).  I think this one might do it.  The handle seems a bit wobbly when extended but seems to hold together well -- just loosely joined.  The zipper has survived some good jams and the fabric has made it through mud, rain, and fights.  For the price range, this is a good backpack.