As a pandemic-era college kid, I spent my time reading, writing essays, and often taking classes outdoors. Through it all, my Herschel backpack endured hot pavement, muddy grass, and even bright yellow North Carolina pollen, which wiped right off. Although the bag is not technically waterproof, I’ve been caught in the rain with it dozens of times, and my belongings have stayed relatively dry (although, to be safe, I suggest using a separate laptop case). Testers for our guide to high school and college backpacks also noted that this model’s durable polyester material is inherently water resistant.
