I have been a big fan of the LLB Jr Original for a few years now, but I am REALLY liking this new one from LE: http://www.landsend.com/pp/GirlsPrin...2&origin=index
Its the Featherlight 100. DD#1 is using it (1st day today!) for Grade 1. It fits her nicely (she is very petite, only 40lbs) and is VERY lightweight. I can't speak to durability though. Her LLB one she's had since age 2 and it looks brand new (she'll be using it for ballet & jazz). She also has a LLB rolling backpack, but we're trying to use a regular one right now because she has to carry less so far this year. She also wanted it to have bottle pockets, which the LLB one doesn't have.
LE also has this toddler one http://www.landsend.com/pp/ClassMate...2&origin=index
Its the Tiny Take. I got that one for my 3.5 yo. Its super cute, but isn't nearly as functional as the Featherlight. Again, I can't speak to durability b/c we just got it and it hasn't been used yet (will be used for ballet).