So it isn't a big deal-it isn't a strap that is necessary to the function of the backpack itself. It isn't a strap that is particularly functional-we use it to hold his jacket on when he isn't wearing it, and doesn't want to carry it.
My only complaint at all is that one of the buckles on the front of my son's backpack keeps sliding off the strap. They are nice and durable, and have stayed pretty clean looking. Also, my son was really into sharks, and they had a shark pattern for the backpack, lunchbox, etc. I got Pottery Barn Kids ones this time (for my daughter and then my son who started school this year) because they had really cute patterns and I thought the bag would stay cleaner looking if the pattern on it was busy. We still use it for outings where we might get grubby (zoo, etc). My daughter had it from kindergarten through 2nd grade, and honestly the only reason I got her a new one was that we had picked a really pale blue color, and it was nasty and stained after several years of use.
