Plastic vs. Mesh

Recently, due to a reinforcement of the school dress code, we’ve been asked to trade in each of our decent, regular, boundary respecting back-packs for cheap, see thru, plastic or mesh back-packs. The reason for this is that a parent noticed that it states in the school hand book that we must bring plastic or mesh back packs, yet no one seems to follow the rule, so that parent then brought the rule up at a parent teacher conference. Neither back-pack is as durable as an ordinary back-pack, but which one is right for you? Let’s take a look.

            Mesh back-packs are more flexible and durable than plastic. They stretch and flex easier than plastic, allowing you more room for your text books, notebooks, and, folders. Also, they don’t tear as easily as plastic back-packs, but when they do, the holes don’t stretch or rip. On the down-side, the holes are big enough to let pencils and pens fall thru. They’re also not good for rainy days; they don’t provide enough shelter from water, causing everything in them to be soaked. Some inventive parents add padding to the bottom and sides to prevent annoying snags that tend to tear a mesh pack as metal spiral notebook rings catch easy on the material. Another method is to use small, clear pack cubes in which to place pencils, papers and other loose items. This option keeps your contents visible and protects the pack. Cheaper models may tear or snag and be less durable than higher priced models that usually have better construction. Without padding or liners, mesh packs do tend to wear out faster than traditional packs. Even cheap mesh packs can be value for money, depending on how rough you use them or if you reuse an old pack for outdoor activities.

Plastic back-packs, on the other hand, have no holes in the material, so they keep all of your papers, books, and folders nice, clean, and dry. Try to ensure that the vinyl is temperature resistant and UV treated to avoid fading in sunlight. And check the seams for double stitching to prevent water seepage during hard rains. They are also clearer than mesh back-packs so it’s easier for teachers to check for weapons or concealed items. They aren’t as durable or as flexible as mesh, however. If you tear a hole in a plastic back-pack, it will continue to rip, tear, and stretch until you need to replace it. They aren’t as flexible as mesh, so you may not have enough room for all of your school supplies. Clear packs are made from different thicknesses of vinyl plastic. Cheaper backpacks are probably made with thinner vinyl that is less durable. Better quality packs use higher gauge plastic and double stitch sturdy handles and shoulder straps into fabric-lined seams for added strength.

The back-pack you choose depends on your personal lifestyle and opinion. Plastic backpacks are better for people who hate getting their papers wet but don’t have a lot to carry. Mesh back-packs are for people who either own umbrellas or don’t mind getting their papers wet but have a lot of textbooks, folders, and notebooks.

Article by: Carl Gordon