Testimonials - BackTpack

"As a physical therapist with a specialty in ergonomics, I was quite excited to read about the BackTpack and all of the thought and effort that went in to designing such a ‘body-friendly’ product. It did not disappoint. Extremely well made, highly adjustable and so many compartments. I am able to walk from one appointment to the next with the weight of all of my equipment evenly distributed across my back and shoulders with my hands free. My physical and occupational therapist co-workers were also quite impressed and immediately began thinking of their patients (and their own children) who could benefit from the BackTpack."

-Pam H., August 2017

"My 11 year old son's daily load of 6.5 kg is a burden he no longer has to endure bent over in pain since using BackTpack. He comments constantly on the effect this incredible carrying system has had on his neck, shoulders and all round posture while negotiating this daily load to, from and during school. Thank you Marilyn and family for this amazing system. I recommend BackTpack to all parents who have their children’s well being at heart."

-S. Rautenbach, South Africa, July 2017

"As parents, we wanted to try the BackTpack out for ourselves to see why our child chose the BackTpack over her standard style cartoon back pack and so we loaded it up and went out for a walk. We discovered the posture, comfort and balance she found in wearing it was in fact as fantastic as she said. We could now see using the BackTpack not only for her school but for us too at work, doctor visits, park time with our kids or pets, mall shopping, hiking, camping, events, amusement parks, flea market shopping, farmers markets, vacations, tailgating events, and even for quick bagless grocery shopping!"

-The Avery-Perich Family, February 2017

"I am a massage therapist and functional movement specialist, and saw this backpack featured on the posture restoration institute website - a modality I am studying right now. Regular backpacks always hurt my back and neck no matter how I carried them or corrected my posture. I was excited when I saw this backpack recommended by the PRI people. Theoretically, it looks like it would be great for the body - it follows all the principles I have been studying. I tried mine for the first time today and it feels wonderful. I can carry much more weight than I would in my usual backpack easily, and my neck feels GREAT. No pain at all. Furthermore, the weight of the bag bringing my shoulders down feels wonderful on my shoulders and actually has a calming effect! I wonder if it would be helpful for people who have autistic spectrum or anxiety disorders since they often benefit from pressure. In any case, one of my clients with scoliosis today tried my pack, and she loved how it felt as well, so I believe she will be ordering it soon!"

-Elana B, NYC April, 2016

"I finally was able to try out my BackTpack this week during my Doctor of Pharmacy program orientation - WOW! After years of heavy loads during my undergraduate years, as well as having spine surgery about six months ago, it was magic when I put the shoulder straps on. It felt like nothing was there! I had a lot with me too - notebooks, my planner, my laptop, a bottle of water, my pencil case and some snacks 🙂 This is a life-changing product for those who have had spine issues. I wish I knew about BackTpack when I was an undergraduate! Thank you for also assisting me with my order in deciding which bag was most appropriate for me! I am really excited to use this during pharmacy school! I cannot express how grateful I am for discovering BackTpack!"

-Megan W., August 2015

"This product is amazing! I have been looking for something like this since I became a white cane user over four years ago. As a blind/visually impaired person, our hands are already occupied with our guide dog and/or white cane. We have to bend a lot to care for our dogs who are our eyes as well as use our hands to “see” things. A purse or traditional backpacks are such a hazard for your back and at greater risk of theft. They are also a nuisance, sliding off your shoulder when you bend over. To be able to carry all you need at your sides and bend and stretch in active ways while being safe and convenient is priceless. Carrying toys, treats, and water for my dog…while also carrying my wallet, iPad, iPhone, keys, spare hat/shades and water for me…no longer a hassle with BackTpack. I am truly amazed and thrilled with this product."

-Tracey T.S., June 2015

"My son was having difficulty managing his backpack, and started complaining of back and shoulder pain after school. We tried the BackTpack and he felt pain-free instantly. He reports that the BackTpack "doesn't hurt" and its design allows him to automatically turn on his posture muscles and stand straighter when he is waiting for the bus and transitioning between classes. He can carry his school binder, a cellphone, lunch and a few books without any difficulty. It's lasted over a year in middle school with no signs of excessive wear and tear. It's been a great investment in both wellness and durability."

-Christina Howard, MPT
Program Coordinator
Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
September 2014

"More weight feels like less weight. I have no more back pain. It used to hurt when I had tons of stuff in my backpack. I can do sprints with it on. I used to have to take my backpack off to run. I like the pockets. It is something new at our school and other people want them. I stand up straight instead of slouched."

-Kevin M., age 8

"Wearing a BackTpack during my critical younger years allowed me to create healthy postural habits which I still carry with me to this day, no pun intended. BackTpack is the exemplary pack of the future as posture begins to degrade through the use of traditional backpacks. I would recommend this product to anyone as it is a simple solution to a national health crisis."

-Kevin M., age 18

"BEFORE: After seeing a colleague's BackTpack, I decided I had to get one for myself. But which one? I could use one for my teaching work. but I also thought it would work well for my work as a field naturalist who carries audio field recording gear, photography gear, and other things necessary for field work. I opted to try one for field gear first, and it is going to serve me well. I'm 5'3+1/2, small-boned and slender woman. I got the medium/large (standard size) for the field work and will probably get the slightly smaller one for more urban applications. The construction is very good, it looks great, and I am quite impressed with how it supports good body mechanics.

AFTER: My new BackTpack keeps my gear evenly distributed and better balanced. It therefore allows me to keep my back straighter, reducing the neck tension and pain that I used to accept as inevitable. I especially love the ease with which I can access all of my gear, and my rather heavy camera now resides in the BackTpack instead of in a case strapped around my waist. There's plenty of room for lenses as well as my field recording equipment and other supplies."

-Lisa, December 2013, Cleveland Heights, Ohio

"I love BackTpack so much! I have had my first one for six years, and after all the abuse it has taken, it was time to buy a new one. I ordered it last week, and it came very quickly. My husband and oldest son also own BackTpacks and they have been great as we all have trudged to and from school. My best friend also bought one a few years ago. I tell everyone I meet about this wonderful carrying system.

I am blind and have a mobility impairment, and the BackTpack has made it very easy for me to carry my computer, water bottle, and everything else, and use my white cane effectively. The BackTpack has made it so much easier for me to be a busy student and mom. Thank you!"

-Kasondra, January 2013

"Over the past 4 years I was in a couple of car accidents in which I was rear ended while at a full stop. Because of this, I have major issues with my neck and lower back. As a result, I haven't been able to handle any type of bag that I try to carry. I'm a college student and I sometimes have 40lbs worth of books to lug all day long. Shoulder bags hurt my neck and lower back, and roller bags mess with my shoulders and my gait. This past December I did some research to find an ergonomic bag for school, and I found the BackTpack. This bag is excellent! When I carry this bag I can barely even feel the weight. I have less issues with my neck and shoulders wearing this bag because of the way the straps sit farther away from my neck. There is no pain in my lower back, at all, while wearing the BackTpack, and the big plus is that I can sit in it without removing it. Although, when I do need to remove it, I can just quick fold the bag briefcase style and carry it like a suitcase. This bag has been a lifesaver for me. I thoroughly recommend it if you have back issues, if you plan to travel, or even just for light groceries. This design really makes sense. Thanks people of BackTpack!"

-Pennsylvania, 5/11/12

"I was rear ended right before finals week one term and was forced to use a small rolling luggage carrier for nearly two weeks as I couldn't carry my books on my back with a regular backpack due to whiplash in my lumbar and cervical spine. Apart from the excruciating pain that caused for the first several days, it would have really interfered with my healing. Before the next term started, I ordered a BackTpack to be my new solution. In the first three weeks of the term, I had no significant pain that I could link directly to carrying my thirty pounds of books. Then I was rear ended again (I know...). After the second accident, wearing a traditional backpack is simply out of the question. With BackTpack, even after the second accident I've had none of the back pain I had come to expect from having thirty+ pounds of books on my back. I've even recommended BackTpack to my chiropractor--honestly, these packs should be in every physical therapy or chiropractic clinic in the world so that patients like me can learn about them and acquire them easily."

- Dallas

"Dancers are notorious for carrying around bulky dance bags slung over one shoulder causing them to lean to one side. Students often load up their traditional backpacks to such an extent that they must lean forward in order to counterbalance the heavy load of books on their backs. Both of these situations cause poor alignment of the spine and can lead to chronic neck and back pain. The design of the BackTpack is the ideal solution to both of these problems because it allows the wearer to balance the load evenly between both sides of the body, which promotes proper vertical alignment of the spine.

On a personal note, my children ride their bikes to school and they have found that it is more difficult to balance with traditional backpacks, which place the load high upon the back. They prefer their BackTpacks because the load has a lower center of gravity and is balanced from side to side making bike riding much safer and more stable. What parent wouldn’t want that?"

- Sharon Oberst, Professor of Dance, Western Oregon University

"After two poor-outcome lumbar back surgeries in four years, I found out on my own how difficult it is to carry possessions in a traditional backpack, purse, briefcase or bag. The BackTpack is just great! I can wear it in the car, keep it on when I sit, load and unload when it's on, and even carry my laptop without low back pain. I haven't had any problems with thoracic or cervical strain, and no difficulty changing positions while wearing it. I have already been talking to patients and friends about the BackTpack, because my personal experience with it has been so positive. I hope to get my four children out of their unwieldy backpacks soon, and have encouraged them to try the BackTpack."

- Marilyn Fraser, M.D.

"These bags are almost indestructible, and wash well. They are rather like Birkenstock® shoes; you need to be sure you like the color when you buy them, since they take years to wear out. The current bag has survived a few purses and is in better shape still than all the purses I have junked. I use it nearly everyday. I have used one bag for Medical Examiner work for several years, and one bag for everyday use."

- Marilyn Fraser, MD , Family Practice in Lincoln City, Lincoln County Medical Examiner

-Tracey T., June 2017

"I have used traditional backpacks my whole life. As a 24 year old, I started to become more aware of the need to protect my body from the negative effects associated with bad posture brought on from backpacks which hurt my shoulders and cause my back to hurt. After much research, I found the BackTpack, and I was amazed by the design. I have stopped using traditional backpacks altogether and have used the BackTpack on a daily basis. The design is incredible and really helps me carry my things in a much more natural fashion. Its such a versatile product, and it is a wonderful product that has really helped my shoulders and my back feel free from pain associated with regular backpacks in the marketplace. If your looking for a truly unique backpack that is actually good for your back and shoulders, this is it!"

-Fernando O., March 2017

"I constantly evaluate new products that might benefit my patients most of whom have failed prior Physical Therapy. Most products I find lacking. I stumbled upon the BackTpack and was instantly interested as it was obvious that it solved so many problems. After ordering, my initial impression was confirmed. In addition to the relief to the neck and back which is obvious, there were so many little details. They thought of everything. I love, love the way you can snap together a handle so the two sides can be carried (briefly) like a briefcase. It is so well made and sturdy, I expect it to last a lifetime (even with a teen). I will be using this on my next trip instead of my usual carry on. I have had several patients order one and they all love it. It makes so much sense, I can’t imagine anyone getting a “regular” backpack once they have seen the BackTpack. I am going to show this product every time I teach a workshop. Thank you so much for creating this. It solves a huge problem with our young people as well as for any person who carries a lot in and out of work like I do. My patients needed this and I am so glad it is available to help them."

-Sandi Pomeroy, PT
Pomeroy Therapeutics
Dayton, Ohio,
February 2016

"This is in praise of BackTpacks! These innovative, corrective side packs offer freedom of movement, proper alignment of the spine when used, great diversified storage compartements etc, you can sit in your car or on an airplane, ride the bus without taking them off. You have freedom for both hands as you carry your various loads. You come back from a day at the office, hiking or shopping with no stress anywhere in your body. The weight is balanced, keeps you upright and unburdened!"

-Annie & Gary M., January 2016

"As a retired physical therapist, I give the BackTpack an A+! This postural, functional double bag is wonderful for school children, those with back pain issues, the blind, and anyone else who must use an assistive device to locomote. Senior citizens appreciate the BackTpack when going to the library where books will be exchanged and transported. This item also gets a positive response from fishermen and new mothers! Anatomically, posture is critical to our health, and the BackTpack reinforces the spine’s natural 3 curves. The BackTpack is well made and undergoing wonderful upgrades, because the brilliant family who created the BackTpack really listens to YOU, a rarity in today’s environment. Finally, the price is right, since you are getting 2 well-made bags for the price of one! I strongly recommend the BackTpack."

- Marian J., August 2015

"My husband and I are each officially the proud owners of one BackTpack 4 apiece. Tim has a black khaki and I have a violet mango. They're very easy to put on as well as to adjust. They are very comfortable and allow one to put belongings in very convenient places without even needing to remove the pack from the body to access them. Not only are there enough pockets, but I have a few gadgets with belt clips, and the pack has enough straps so I can clip the gadgets to my body without the need for a belt. Thank you for creating the ideal pack to accommodate all of my needs."

- Diane, May 2015

"The unique design of the BackTpack distributes the weight of the contents perfectly between the shoulders and pelvis. Unlike other backpacks which can place their weight on the upper back or unevenly on the torso, the BackTpack facilitates upright posture of the user and supports ease of movement. It is highly recommended for people who have back or posture issues due to low muscle tone."

- Sandra Rosen, Ph.D., COMS, PT
Coordinator, Program in Orientation and Mobility
San Francisco State University

"We were walking down Columbus Avenue in NYC and saw a guy wearing this (BackTpack). Just had to stop him. What on on Earth was this? And here it is. We finally found a backpack that doesn't screw up posture and health or rob your shoulders of life or make your neck push too far forward or have your upper body compensate for too much on it. It is different! Developed by a physical therapist who was determined to solve the problems of backpacks."

-Karel, Owner of GentleworkUSA

-B. Anderson, Texas

"I injured my neck just before leaving for a trip of a lifetime with my son to visit where I served in the Peace Corps 45 years ago! I would have had to cancel the trip if it weren't for the hip loading feature of the BackTpack and the design of the bag which allowed access to items without needing to take the bag on and off. I had no weight and no pain in my neck and shoulders due to the hip loading belt, and was still able to carry the load I needed. We had a wonderful time!!"

-Andreas, Pisac, Peru

"This is the most amazing load carrying system ever invented. All my back and neck problems disappeared within 2 days of using it, and as a student carrying many pounds of books it has been a literal lifesaver for me. Every student should have one, as well as anyone who carries any kind of weight for any reason. I cannot imagine being without one now. Do yourself a favor and get one, your back, neck and body will thank you every day. I wish I had this back when I was hiking the deserts of the southwest, I would not have suffered the decades of back and neck pain I have endured if I had. Thank you so much BackTpack and God bless all of you."

-Barry S., July 2013

"Grandma gave our seventh grade son a BackTpack for Christmas and I am so thankful. Three years later, he still loves it and it looks barely broken in. His back feels better and he likes that he can sit down and leave it on. It is easier to ride his bike without the shifting weight of a backpack. He even likes the color! The quality is terrific. We used to have to buy more than one pack a year. All that AND their customer service is professional, warm and helpful. It has the sturdiness and back-saving features I want for my son. Our chiropractor also loves the benefits of the BackTpack.
We are customers for life. Thanks for an excellent product!"

-R. E., October 2013, Colorado Springs, Colorado

-B. Sommer, July 2013

"I purchased this to use as a book bag for college. I carry a heavy load and walk across campus five days a week and my back was starting to feel it. I did a lot of research for a bag that would help with back fatigue. "Ergonomic" backpacks seem to only shift weight around on your back & if you're lucky they add a little padding in there too.

This is completely different. I never felt back fatigue, the shoulder straps do not cut into my shoulders - even with a heavy load. I can get to anything with it on, which is awesome! I don't have to take the bag off to get to stuff. It has everything a book bag has and more. It has every pocket size you will possibly need and those pockets are easy to get to.

I never tried it on a bike or while hiking, but I can see how this would be perfect for those activities. It puts your center of gravity at your hips and does not impede your range of motion at all. Again, you have access to bag contents without taking it off. I would recommend splurging and getting the additional chest strap if you are doing these activities.

Note - it will take a little getting used to. It's different than a traditional book bag or back pack to put it on and take it off. Remember: you won't be doing that as often with this bag as a regular book bag/backpack. It's different than other bags, but that is why you are looking at it.

The construction is top-notch. It reminds me of the high-end, light-weight photographers bags. There wasn't a loose stitch or hanging thread anywhere. If the bag did get scratched or ripped, I don't think it would fray apart.

I totally recommend this bag for anyone."

-Tina, January 2013

"After I had been wearing my BackTpack for several months, I tried on my old conventional backpack to see if I'd feel a difference...and did I ever! I never realized how uncomfortable a regular backpack is until I had the BackTpack."

-N.H. Ball State University, September 2012

"I suffer from mild scoliosis, and years of wearing conventional backpacks and shoulder/tote bags continued to move my body in this ill direction. The BackTpack is groundbreaking because it doesn't cause alignment problems to worsen like an average bag would. It frees your shoulders, neck, and spine in a way no other bag can!"

-Student, Ball State University, September 2012

"I have used a BackTpack everyday for several years now. It's worn out now and I've just ordered a new one. I had two bulged disks and arthritis in my spine AND fibromyalgia (and serious hand issues so I can't use a rolling backpack); the BackTpack has been a big factor in allowing me the mobility to deal with graduate school. I'm now in the process of getting a PhD in musicology (music history and literature). Carrying large format books and musical scores around a large campus is a daily part of life. With a conventional backpack, my arms and hands would go numb from my thoracic outlets being squeezed, and my back would be in incredible pain. I have absolutely no problems with the BackTpack. Thanks for such an innovative product!"

-A.M.

"My daughter has been having back problems for several years from carrying her standard backpack to school. Her pain had escalated to the point that we were making weekly visits to the chiropractor and she was taking nightly pain medication so she could sleep. I found the BackTpack and decided to try it. It works wonders. Her posture has straightened since she no longer has to bend forward in order to balance the weight and her pain disappeared within the first week. She did have some muscle soreness from adjusting to the new pack, but that disappeared within a couple of days. She likes having her things at her side instead of on her back and the pack is easy to get on and off. She just grabs the briefcase handles to sling the BackTpack around. Although the price of the BackTpack is more than a standard backpack it is well worth it. I would highly recommend the BackTpack for anyone, back problems or not."

-B. Anderson, October 2012

"I received my BackTpack by mail yesterday. I loaded it with library books this morning and took off over very uneven, icy trails across about 10 blocks of parkland to my local library. Balance is superb. It is great to be able to load and unload without removing the harness and bags. It will be amazing at the farmer's market. This is, perhaps, the best idea in packs in many decades. Great idea, well executed. My grandchildren will be getting BackTpacks for school use, as they need them, over the next few years."

- Michael, Canada

"We are back from Copenhagen where we spent Christmas and New Years. I used this pack daily for 10 days and carried each day a large bottle of water in each side plus what ever else I needed for the day. I didn't take off the pack at all for at least 8 hours each day. You can see that I was bundled up with 5 layers of clothing because the temp was about 25F with the wind chill running about 17F. I could sit easily without removing the pack. I was amazed at the ease of carrying a moderate "load" one would expect to have on vacation. I can assure you that you will never have a customer any happier with your product than I am. It was wonderful not to have to take a day pack off every time I sat down. We rode city busses, subways and commuter trains hundreds of times and it was great to have the comfort and luxury of leaving the BackTpack on. Thanks again for a great product. Bravo BackTpack."

- Joe, BackTpack enthusiast

"Our hike for the day was 19 miles and I was very pleased that I chose this pack over the traditional backpack/day-pack. I was able to carry my trail-food, water bottles, water filter, first aid kit, camcorder, and still have room for my clothing layers as I donned or doffed them. I had inner enclosed pockets to keep my keys and ID in a safe place. The saddle bags were sinched nicely against my body so there wasn't any undesirable loose swaying of the packs and to my surprise the packs did not interfere with my normal arm swing. I was able to retrieve my own water bottles to hydrate while I continued to walk. I avoided having thoracic burning pain that I would normally get from hunching over when wearing a traditional backpack. I also was a lot less sweaty in my upper back by having that area "exposed" instead of being under a backpack. I felt the BackTpack was far superior to the traditional day-pack and I plan to wear it on my next two summer day hikes this season."

- Arthur Baudendistel, PT, OCS, COMT, Folsom, California, 2009

"I got your product from someone who had bought a number to resell. I've had it since mid June and have to say that it's an incredible product!

I have arthritis and deteriorative disk disease in my neck and upper spine, C6 through T4. This came about as a result of carrying heavy computer bags and other equipment improperly. This pack allows me to carry all of my stuff easily and end the day with little to no pain at all. Any pain is a result of other activities. I've taken the pack to trade shows where I am carrying equipment, at times heavy equipment, in it and have had no issues with my neck and upper spine as a result.

I love the many compartments too! I've received zillions of comments when I fly about this pack from flight crews. Now I know where to tell them to get it! I also work with a guide dog, this means that not every pack is going to work because in my left hand, I hold the harness handle. I'm sure you have heard from many guide dog handlers about the problems we have with our necks, shoulders and so forth, and finding a proper bag that looks good and works well is hard. Well, I know I've found my carrying system in your product!

Thanks for doing such a great job with it."

- Jenine S.

Physical Therapist Enjoys Benefits of BackTpack

BackTpack has Children’s Well Being at Heart

Using BackTpack for School and Other Activities

Sharing BackTpack with Friends

The Coolest Back “T” Pack Ever!

Massage Therapist/Functional Movement Specialist Praises BackTpack

Riding a Motorcycle with BackTpack

Traveling with BackTpack

BackTpack After a Car Accident

Grad Student Ecstatic About BackTpack

BackTpack’s Design is Exactly What is Needed

We Love Our BackTpacks for Travel

BackTpack Allows Activity While Being Safe and Convenient

BackTpack never wears out

Train Travel is Easier with BackTpack

Physical Therapist’s Son Feels “Pain-free Instantly” Using his New BackTpack

Seven Year Old Girl Goes Back to School with BackTpack

A Long Time BackTpack User Creates Healthy Postural Habits

Praise from an International BackTpack User

BackTpack, an Investment in Physical Well-being

Very Comfortable, Convenient, and Well-made (5 out of 5 stars)

BackTpack, a “Brilliant” Alternative to a Traditional Backpack

¡Atención ahora que hay que escoger mochila para el colegio!

BackTpack is Perfect for Collectors, Bike Riding and Traveling

BackTpack Makes Life Easier for Blind Mom

BackTpack…”a lifesaver for me”

Back Pain Relief After Multiple Car Accidents

Better Posture

WOU Dance Professor Endorses BackTpack!

BackTpack Great for Hiking in Peru

Back Pain Relief for a Physician and Mother

Comfortable for Kids and Fun to Wear

Good for Riding Bike

BackTpack is Amazing for a Blind/Visually Impaired Person

BackTpack, a Truly Unique Backpack

I Recommend BackTpack to My Patients

BackTpack is Great for Posture

No Back Pain While Hiking with BackTpack

Physical Therapist Praises BackTpack Design

BackTpack Keeps You Upright & Unburdened

BackTpack Proclaimed “The One”

BackTpack Get an A+ from a Retired Physical Therapist

BackTpack is Awesome

BackTpack, the Way to Go Hiking

I Will Never Wear a Regular Backpack Again

BackTpack, an Ideal Pack

BackTpack Facilitates Upright Posture

Hiking is Easy with BackTpack

“YSL, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermes Birkin Move Over: Meet the BackTpack”

Switching to BackTpack to Address Child’s Back Pain Due to Conventional Backpack

Travelers Love the Easy to Use BackTpack

BackTpack… What a Great Invention

BackTpack, the Most Amazing Load Carrying System

BackTpack, Give the Gift of Back Health

BackTpack, a Life Long Gift and a Hit with the Kids

BackTpack, a Better Bag for School and Hiking

Back and Neck Problems “Disappear” with BackTpack

College Student Recommends BackTpack

Students Enthusiastically Choose BackTpack Over Conventional Backpacks

BackTpack…”an innovative product”

BackTpack Worked “Wonders” for Posture and Back Pain

BackTpack Improves Balance on Uneven and Icy Surfaces

European Traveler Loves BackTpack

Hiking with BackTpack up Halfdome in Yosemite National Park

Back Pain Relief for a Student

Back Pain Relief & Good Pack for Guide Dog Handler

Good School Bag & Small Dog Carrier