Product Spotlight, The EcoMan:

Pack It All In

Contributed By: Amy Feezor

Got an outdoorsy guy who still wants to feel rugged once he’s back inside the walls of a classroom? Hook him up with a REI Trail 25 Pack, a just-the-right-size backpack that’s ready for action whether it’s in the halls or at the park after class.

Built from recycled PET fabric made from post-consumer plastic water bottles, this eco bag has a back panel that features extra padding to make heavy books less difficult to lug. Its front and side mesh pockets keep his supplies at the ready. Plus, he can choose from three dude-approved colors and remove the hipbelt and sternum belt to make the pack appropriately more bookish. At $59.50, it’s an affordable and durable option that will take him through the school year, then easily back to his favorite hiking trails come next summer. (And that should make everyone happy.)

Photo: REI