Osprey Ace 48

This is THE BEST kid's pack. The backpack is very well-built. It works best for kids ages 10-15. I am 15 years old. The pack fits good because it has an adjustable torso. What that is is shoulder straps that Velcro to the back of the backpack.

To adjust it is very simple. You just unattach the Velcro, then set the straps to the desired torso length. The hipbelts have comfortable straps as well as the shoulder straps.  

The venting on this pack isn't all that great but I can survive that con for all the pros.  

The volume of the pack (48L or 2,929 cubic inches) is perfect for the age range. It limits you on the amount of STUFF you can take thus lightening your load. (Although I do consider myself a lightweight backpacker carrying around 15-20 pounds for all my gear [tent and all.])  

The pack's load is distributed evenly along the hipbelts and shoulder straps. The shoulder straps have a feature called load-lifters which conform the load more toward your back. The pack also has compression straps that compress your load, whether you are taking a day hike or a two to three day trip.  

The fabrics are bombproof. I have never had a problem with rips in the pack through two years of use. Also, I have never been blistered, scraped, or anything from the hipbelts, shoulder straps or the frame. The pack comes with an integrated raincover which can be removed for lighter weight.  

I have used this pack regularly for two years taking about 6-7 hikes or overnighters per year. This pack is definately THE BEST kids pack. And yes, I am 15 so you are hearing from someone who uses this pack on a regular basis. Thanks.  

This pack is a very good pack. I recommend it for kids ages 10/11-15/16. Adjustable back pads are an added bonus so that you can shift weight around so that you're comfortable.

I got this pack for my school trip (my school has a lot of emphasis on the outdoors) and it is wonderful! It had space for all of my personal things and some communal things like toilet paper. The adjustable straps and back pads gave it a great fit.  

I recommend this size for kids 11-15/16.