Purchased at the beginning of this year. I used it alternately with another backpack, so I haven't used it very often. There are no noticeable stains. There's a faint, barely noticeable scratch-like mark on the small front pocket, but it's not a concern. The color is black. There are pockets on the sides for water bottles or PET bottles. It's a lightweight and easy-to-use backpack. I will fold it lightly for shipping. Please be aware that there may be some folding wrinkles.