I imagine they're more expensive, but I've heard awesome stuff about Chicago Wig's backpacks: http://web.mac.com/chicagowig/www.ch...backpacks.html

Their large also has the distinction of being 6000 ci when fully expanded, so you could basically smuggle people in it.

Zugster is another one I've heard good stuff about: http://www.zugsterbags.com/products/backpack

Banjo Brothers is also supposed to be great, and relatively inexpensive: http://www.banjobrothers.com/product...gbackpacks.php

I know lots of people with Chrome packs who love them and they're certainly well made and last for years, so between the REI and the Chrome, I'd say go for the Chrome.