Rose Stark
14 min readApr 19, 2024

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Get ready to embark on an adventure with the North Face Backpack! In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through our top picks for the best North Face backpacks that provide the perfect balance of style, durability, and functionality. Whether you’re a student or an avid hiker, our roundup will have you covered with a variety of options to suit your unique needs.

The Top 10 Best North Face Backpacks

  1. The North Face Borealis Mini Luxe Black/Burnt Coral Backpack — Experience comfort and functionality with the compact North Face Borealis Mini Luxe Backpack, designed for sport enthusiasts and featuring a water-repellent finish, side water bottle pockets, and a 10-liter capacity.
  2. North Face Borealis Backpack: Mandarin, TNF Black, and Sun Sprite Design — Stay organized and comfortable with the North Face Borealis Backpack, a versatile and stylish solution for all your daily commuting needs.
  3. The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack in Black Currant Purple/TNF Black — Experience ultimate versatility with The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack, featuring an impressive 10-liter capacity, multiple pockets, and easy-to-grab U-pull zippers, perfect for your everyday adventures.
  4. The North Face Inc Explore Fusebox Daypack: Black/TNF Black | Fleece — Carry your essentials in style with The North Face Explore Fusebox 26L Daypack, a versatile companion designed for both day-to-day commuting and weekend adventures, featuring a spacious laptop sleeve, padded shoulder straps, and easy-access pockets.
  5. The North Face Women’s Recon Backpack (Wild Ginger Light Heather/TNF White) with Enhanced Laptop Compartment — The North Face Recon Backpack for Women features a stand-up design, dedicated laptop compartment, and spacious main and front compartments, making it the perfect choice for your daily essentials.
  6. North Face Recon Backpack — 25L Durable & Versatile Travel Companion — Enjoy protection and organization with the North Face Recon Backpack, featuring a dedicated laptop compartment, versatile external pockets, and adjustable support straps.
  7. The North Face Jester Backpack in Mid Grey Dark Heather/Black — The North Face Jester Backpack offers an impressive combination of organization, durability, and comfort, making it the perfect companion for any student’s journey.
  8. Affordable North Face 29L Backpack with Reflective Elements and Improved Suspension System — Stay organized in any weather with the North Face NF0A3KX6 Groundwork Backpack, featuring adjustable shoulder straps, cushioned back, and a multitude of pockets and compartments.
  9. The North Face Jester Backpack — Perfect for School Laptops — The North Face Jester Adult Unisex School Laptop Backpack boasts a padded laptop sleeve, large main compartment, ample internal organization, and 360-degree reflectivity for ultimate protection and convenience.
  10. Classic North Face Berkeley Field Bag Backpack in Purple Camo — Stay prepared and stylish with the North Face Berkeley Field Bag Backpack in Purple Camo, featuring a vintage crinkle nylon front, adjustable shoulder straps, waterproof base, and convenient storage pockets for all your essentials.

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Reviews

The North Face Borealis Mini Luxe Black/Burnt Coral Backpack

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This North Face Borealis Mini Luxe Backpack is just as sleek and stylish as it is practical. Soft shell construction makes it a snug and comfy fit, while the shoulder strap offers easy mobility.

With a 10-liter capacity, this compact backpack is perfect for carrying must-have essentials on your sports adventures. The side water bottle pockets are a thoughtful addition, and the water-repellent finish ensures that your belongings stay clean and dry.

A bit of extra cushioning would be appreciated, but overall, this bag is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality and compact backpack for their sporty endeavors.

North Face Borealis Backpack: Mandarin, TNF Black, and Sun Sprite Design

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The North Face Borealis Backpack is an ideal choice for anyone who needs a reliable and spacious backpack for their daily commute or adventures. With an easy-to-grab U-pull zipper and padded top grab handle, this stylish backpack ensures comfort and convenience for its users. It boasts several organization options, such as external bungee-compression system, external fleece-lined pocket, and side bungee cords that allow for customized compression.

Despite its numerous pros, the backpack does have a few drawbacks. Some users have complained about the hard plastic insert between the back section and the padding, which can cause some discomfort. Additionally, the bungee cord across the side pockets has been reported to be uneven, preventing the main chamber from being fully packed.

Nonetheless, the majority of reviewers are pleased with the design and functionality of the Borealis Backpack. Its durability, ample storage space, and comfortable ergonomics have earned it a rating of 4.5 out of 5, making it a solid contender for anyone in search of a versatile backpack. Overall, this North Face product is a reliable and practical choice for both city commuting and day hiking.

The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack in Black Currant Purple/TNF Black

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The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack offers a combination of functionality and comfort for those on-the-go. With a 10-liter storage capacity, it’s perfect for carrying essentials whether you’re hiking through nature or exploring the city. The external bungee-compression system lets you efficiently store and organize your items, while the U-pull zippers provide easy access.

The backpack also features a padded top handle for comfortable carrying, and two durable, external water bottle pockets that can double as multi-use pockets with quick-draw smartphone access on one side. Although the backpack is not waterproof, it has water-repellent qualities to protect your belongings from the elements.

Overall, the North Face Borealis Mini Backpack is a versatile and stylish choice for your everyday adventures.

The North Face Inc Explore Fusebox Daypack: Black/TNF Black | Fleece

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The North Face Inc Explore Fusebox daypack is an impressive choice for adventure seekers and urban commuters alike. Boasting a robust 900D polyester exterior and a DWR finish, it stands up to any element life throws at you. With a generous 26 liters of volume, this backpack offers ample space for all your essentials.

The North Face has truly thought of everything, equipping this pack with padded shoulder straps to ensure a comfortable carry while on the move. Accessing your gear is a breeze with the top-loading design, and there’s even a convenient external zippered pocket for quick access to smaller items. Inside, a fleece-lined pocket protects your laptop from scratches and bumps.

This versatile daypack weighs in at just 2.4 pounds and measures 12.5 inches by 7.5 inches by 18.5 inches, perfect for squeezing it into tight spaces when exploring the great outdoors. The North Face Inc Explore Fusebox 26L Daypack is undoubtedly an excellent investment for those who value functionality and style.

The North Face Women’s Recon Backpack (Wild Ginger Light Heather/TNF White) with Enhanced Laptop Compartment

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Last week, I decided to give the North Face Recon Backpack a try during my daily commute. The stand-up design made it a cinch to access my belongings while the protective dedicated laptop compartment gave me peace of mind. Plus, the large main compartment was perfect for storing my textbooks and binders. The front compartment had external, fleece-lined pockets that came in handy for my phone and keys.

While the backpack had plenty of space, it also had a few drawbacks. The mesh back panel felt a bit rough on my back, and the external water bottle pockets could use some extra durability. However, overall, this backpack was a great companion to have on the go, especially with its organizer and multiple pockets.

North Face Recon Backpack — 25L Durable & Versatile Travel Companion

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Looking for the perfect backpack to carry all your essentials? The North Face Recon Backpack is your go-to choice with its protective dedicated laptop compartment and roomy main compartment for books and binders.

Its front compartment offers secure organization with internal zip pockets and a padded tablet sleeve. Store your sunglasses, phone or keys in the external fleece-lined pocket, and attach your water bottle to the side compression webbing straps.

This backpack is built for durability and comfort, with sternum and waist straps for support during travel, making it perfect for hikes or commuting to class. The North Face Recon Backpack, with its stylish dark sage/TNF black color, has earned a 4.6-star rating from 1789 satisfied customers.

This backpack measures 11.6 x 7.5 x 19.3 inches and has a capacity of 25 liters/1526 cubic inches. It’s constructed with nylon fabric, perfect for a variety of journeys, whether day-trips or week-long expeditions. Make the North Face Recon Backpack your ideal companion for your next adventure.

The North Face Jester Backpack in Mid Grey Dark Heather/Black

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When I first laid eyes on the Jester backpack from The North Face, I couldn’t help but be impressed by its sleek design and ample storage capacity. As an art student, I need to carry my sketchbooks, pens, and pencils along with my laptop and notebooks, so this backpack seemed perfect for my daily life.

One of the things that stood out to me was the double webbing top handles, which allowed for a balanced and convenient carry. It also stood on its own for easy loading and unloading of essentials. The padded laptop sleeve was definitely a plus, as it protected my laptop from bumps and falls. But where this backpack truly shone was its huge main compartment that held all the books, binders, and stationery needed for a day on campus.

However, there were a few downsides that I encountered. I found that the external pockets could be a bit tricky to access, especially when I was on the go, and the smaller front compartment didn’t provide as much organization as I would have liked for my daily art supplies. While the FlexVent carrying system was comfortable, I wished that it had more adjustability options.

Despite the minor drawbacks, I would say that the Jester backpack is a great choice for students and professionals who need a comfortable and durable backpack for their daily commute. With its sleek design, ample storage, and protection for your laptop, it is certainly a worthy addition to any outfit.

Affordable North Face 29L Backpack with Reflective Elements and Improved Suspension System

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The North Face NF0A3KX6 Groundwork Backpack is perfect for everyday use, with its adjustable shoulder straps and cushioned back ensuring a comfortable fit. Its numerous pockets and compartments provide ample storage, while reflective elements ensure safety during late-night activities.

The cushioned notebook compartment is a thoughtful addition, and the floating padded laptop sleeve in the main compartment offers extra protection. With a volume of 29 liters, this backpack is spacious enough to fit your essentials, but lightweight enough not to weigh you down.

However, be aware that The North Face products may require extra handling procedures due to their decoration requirements.

The North Face Jester Backpack — Perfect for School Laptops

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I recently had the chance to try out the North Face Jester Adult unisex School Laptop Backpack in black, and let me tell you, it’s a winner. The padded laptop sleeve in the main compartment is a game-changer, giving me peace of mind knowing my device is well-protected from any unexpected bumps or falls.

The large main compartment is perfect for storing books and binders, while the front compartment’s internal organization allows for multiple slips and mesh pockets, including a secure-zip pocket. The convenient mesh water bottle pockets and updated front elastic bungee system for external storage add a nice touch, making this backpack versatile and practical for any outdoor adventure.

While I appreciated the reflective bike-light loop and water bottle tabs, I must admit that the backpack felt a little heavy at times, and I wish it came in a wider range of colors. Overall, the North Face Jester Adult unisex School Laptop Backpack is a comfortable and well-designed option for those looking for a reliable backpack for their school or outdoor needs.

Classic North Face Berkeley Field Bag Backpack in Purple Camo

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The Berkeley Field Bag from The North Face is perfect for those who love to explore the great outdoors. What stood out to me was the ripstop nylon construction — it’s durable and holds up well in all sorts of conditions. I enjoy the waterproof base, which keeps my belongings safe from the elements no matter where I go.

The adjustable shoulder straps are a great feature for comfort, and I also appreciate the bag’s internal zippered compartment and fleece-lined exterior pocket, both of which keep my valuables secure. I love the camo pattern — it adds a nice touch of style to the bag.

However, there are a few things I wasn’t thrilled about. I found the bag to be a bit large, and sometimes it became a hassle to carry. I also wish there were more organizational pockets inside, which would be perfect for keeping smaller items separate.

Overall, I think The Berkeley Field Bag is a good companion for the outdoors. It’s made of quality materials, and I appreciate its unique style. But, I do think there are some improvements that could be made.

Buyer’s Guide

North Face is a well-known brand when it comes to backpacks. They offer a variety of styles, sizes, and features. This buyer’s guide will help you understand the important aspects to consider when purchasing a North Face backpack. Make sure to read through this guide before making your final decision.

Design and Durability

North Face backpacks are designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use. They are made from high-quality materials, such as ballistic nylon and reinforced stitching, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. Look for backpacks with padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel for added comfort when carrying heavy loads.

Size and Storage

North Face backpacks come in various sizes to accommodate different needs. Determine the size that suits your requirements based on the amount of gear you need to carry. Larger backpacks feature multiple compartments and pockets for storing and organizing your belongings. Smaller backpacks, on the other hand, are more suitable for day trips or light travels.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort is an essential factor when choosing a backpack. North Face backpacks feature padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and adjustable straps to distribute the weight evenly and reduce strain on your shoulders. Look for backpacks with ventilated back panels to promote airflow and keep you cool while carrying your gear.

Style and Aesthetics

North Face backpacks come in a variety of styles and aesthetics, ranging from classic designs to more modern and stylish options. Consider the style that best suits your personality and preferences. Some backpacks feature unique patterns, bright colors, or minimalist designs, while others opt for a more understated and functional approach.

FAQ

What types of backpacks does North Face offer?

North Face offers a diverse range of backpacks to suit various needs such as hiking, travel, and lifestyle. Some of their popular backpacks include the North Face Jester, North Face Recon, and North Face Surge. Each backpack has its unique features like size, organization, and materials to cater to different user preferences.

North Face Jester backpacks are designed for lightweight hikers and everyday use. North Face Recon backpacks feature a sleek design, making them perfect for urban adventures. North Face Surge backpacks are designed for travel, offering spacious storage and a versatile, compact design for different trips.

What are the key features of North Face backpacks?

North Face backpacks come with a range of convenient features that enhance functionality and organization. These features include adjustable shoulder straps, multiple compartments, internal laptop sleeves, and side water bottle pockets. Additionally, North Face backpacks are made with high-quality materials, ensuring durability, waterproofing, and versatility for various activities.

For example, their Recon backpacks come with a slim profile and minimalist design, perfect for those who prefer an understated yet functional look. On the other hand, their Jester backpacks offer more storage options and have a more rugged appearance, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a lightweight option. Their Surge backpacks, with their convertible luggage handles, are tailor-made for travelers who need something to withstand the rigors of transit.

How can I clean my North Face backpack?

North Face backpacks are durable, but they may require some cleaning every now and then. To clean your backpack, you should follow these steps: first, remove any dirt or debris from the exterior with a stiff brush or a damp cloth. Next, use a mild detergent and water solution to clean the exterior of your backpack, being extra careful around zipper areas and other delicate parts. Make sure to wipe any excess detergent with a damp cloth and let the backpack air dry.

For the interior, you can use a lint roller or vacuum cleaner to remove any lingering dirt or debris. In case of accidental spills or stains, blot the stain with a clean cloth until it is absorbed, then use a damp cloth with a mild detergent solution to gently wash away any remaining residue. Remember, it’s always best to avoid using harsh chemicals, high heat, or aggressive scrubbing to prevent damage to the materials and finishes.

What are the warranty and return policies for North Face backpacks?

North Face provides a limited lifetime warranty for their backpacks, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty specifically covers the backpack’s zippers, seams, and straps. If you experience any issues with your backpack, you should contact North Face’s customer service team for instructions on how to address the issue.

If you’re not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, North Face offers a 30-day return policy from the date of purchase. To return the product, you must contact their customer service team for return authorization. The return shipping cost is at your expense, and returned items must be in their original, unaltered condition, including all tags and packaging. Refunds or replacements will be processed only after North Face receives and inspects the returned item.

What are some alternatives to the North Face backpacks?

If you’re not entirely convinced by North Face backpacks, there are plenty of other great options available from other reputable brands. Some popular alternatives include brands like Columbia, Patagonia, or The North Face Pike. Each brand offers a variety of styles and features, ensuring that you can find the perfect backpack to suit your needs and preferences.

Columbia backpacks, for instance, are known for their practical design and durable construction. Patagonia backpacks, on the other hand, often showcase innovative designs and eco-friendly materials. The North Face Pike backpacks, while similar to North Face, may offer different materials, features, and price points that could appeal to you.

Why should I choose a North Face backpack over others?

North Face backpacks are considered a reliable and high-quality choice due to several factors. First, North Face is a well-respected brand, renowned for its commitment to using durable materials and superior craftsmanship. Second, their backpacks are versatile, catering to diverse user preferences and activities. Third, they offer a limited lifetime warranty that covers materials and workmanship, which is indicative of their confidence in their products.

Ultimately, the choice between North Face and other brands depends on your personal needs and preferences. North Face might prove to be the best option if their backpacks align with your specific requirements in terms of features, design, and price. However, exploring other brands and models would give you a comprehensive sense of what makes each brand unique. Remember, it’s important to research thoroughly and select a backpack that suits your requirements best.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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