Walter Ortiz, 21, art student/sales clerk

"I really don't need much. I'm just going to work." His backpack is lightweight and contains only what he knows he'll use on his daily train commute: a sketchbook, sunglasses, iPod, charger, phone and Game Boy. Also, just in case, a small medical kit if there's a skateboard accident.

What's right: Backpack distributes weight evenly; contents pared down to essentials; skateboarding to his job from the train station is fast, cheap -- and green.

What's wrong: Nothing.

September 7, 2012