I'll start by saying that this is a solid backpack.  It is sewn together well, and I have not had any trouble with loose strings, or anything falling apart.  This backpack can be used for skaters who need a place to put their board, general use, or even a laptop backpack.

Personally, I use this backpack for work so I constantly carry a laptop.  There is a good amount of padding in the laptop slot, although there is not a strap over the laptop slot, which shouldn't matter unless you plan on hanging upside down.  It securely holds your laptop in place.

Pros:
Place to keep board (for skaters)
Solid stitching, not likely to tear
Slot to keep Ipod/etc.
Laptop slot with good padding
Multiple zip up pockets
Zippers have extended rubber gribs to make it easier to grab and zip

Cons:
Side pockets only have 1 zipper, so you cannot put a water bottle in or it will fall out.
No padding on the straps

All in all, it is a great backpack and well worth the money!