JanSport SuperBreak One 26L Reviewed in 2025

JanSport Classic Everyday Backpack

The Jansport SuperBreak One is about as textbook as a backpack can come. JanSport canvas backpacks are easily recognizable from their classic design and distinctive logo.

The SuperBreak One is the Goldilocks of backpack – not too big or not too small, with one roomy compartment and one handy front pocket. Its lack of features also means that it is reasonably lightweight at 12.5 oz / 0.35 kg – about the same as a can of soda.

This of course, works in favour of pricing, and it is more affordable than other popular everyday backpacks.

Capacity, Pockets & External Features

With the JanSport SuperBreak One what you see is what you get and it’s less is more design goes a long way. 

There is one main compartment, which has no extra sleeve or any other mesh / zipped pockets you might find with other brands. This perhaps makes it somewhat unappealing to working adults who often carry a laptop, maybe a camera and headphones.

On the other hand, using a separate laptop sleeve, while less convenient, provides a bit more protection anyway.

However, this lack of features is not a limitation and makes it well suited to carrying all kinds of items, whether chucking in gym clothes or books for school. Its wide opening is also well suited to packing cubes, so you can easily use it for traveling.

There is a reasonable zipped front compartment to keep your smaller items in. Think wallet, car keys, mouse, drinking bottle, etc. There are also three organizational sections inside the pockets that can easily hold your pens, phone or purse.

It must be noted that the JanSport SuperBreak One shouldn’t be confused with its big brother, the SuperBreak One Plus. The Plus has an additional internal padded sleeve that fits a 15-inch laptop and has a side water bottle pocket.

Canvas Construction & Water Resistance

The SuperBreak One is made out of 100% recycled 600 denier polyester, which, to the touch, has a canvas feel. Although it is not waterproof, it is somewhat water and abrasion-repellant, so if you get caught in the rain running back from the bus stop, you’ll be okay. However, if you cycle to work or expect to be in the rain for extended periods a waterproof backpack like Stubble & Co The Roll Top is a better choice.

The 600 denier polyester is a good material for this backpack as it makes it light, keeping with its minimal design. Many buyers have noted that cleaning the backpack is very easy and that a simple sponge with dish soap will get rid of most marks. JanSport does not recommend putting their backpacks in the washing machine as they’ll lose their shape over time.

Another benefit to this classic canvas material is that it can be easily personalized, from an iron patch, a pin, or a little embroidery. The JanSport SuperBreak One comes in a range of solid colors to which you can add your personal touch.

Comfortable Carry 

Although it cannot be compared to more premium backpacks like The North Face Borealis, which has padded shoulder straps and a spine channel, the JanSport does a decent enough job of making it a comfortable bag to carry.

The two backpack straps are adjustable and have a firm foam inside that will provide comfort for large loads. So if you’re considering this bag as a school pack with heavy books or a kit bag with bulky gear, it’ll hold up just fine.

There is also additional padding along the center back, which goes a long way for that extra bit against your spine. It would have been nice to have similar padding on the base of the bag for some shock absorption and to help it keep its shape.

Do We Recommend It?

If you’re on the hunt for a classic, simple backpack, whether for commuting to work, traveling, school books or as your kid’s school pack, we recommend the JanSport SuperBreak One.

Bear in mind it is quite minimal, so if you value additional features, you’ll have to invest in a removable laptop sleeve or a different bag.

But for around $30-$40, it’s a great all-rounder that can be used for all wants and needs.