The backpack grows up

We've always harbored a secret desire to be an economist. After all, what other job would allow us to use neat phrases like "the tenuous balance between stocks and flows" or "the invisible hand of the marketplace"? The point is, you've got to love capitalism. Entrepreneurship always rules the day. Take backpacks, for instance. Pretty straightforward, right? That is, until innovative new wrinkles are added to what once basically was an unexciting product and, presto!--consumers are (happily) besieged with innumerable choices. That includes the close cousin of the backpack--the courier bag.

The Torque from Osprey Packs, Inc., Cortez, Colo., simply is flat-out cool, ideal for commuting to work or traveling. This highly organized bag features a molded backpanel; padded shoulder strap; laptop, file, and organizer sleeves; and a cell phone pocket for easy access. Ideal for the active college student and urban commuter, the Torque ($85) is tops when it comes to innovation, design, and, of course, "the invisible hand of the marketplace." For more information on Osprey's entire line of "packs," visit www.ospreypacks.com.

COPYRIGHT 2005 Society for the Advancement of Education
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