How We Researched the Best North Face Backpack

Best North Face Backpack Our top 5 choices

North Face Borealis Backpack

Our top pick is the 28 liter North Face Borealis backpack. The Borealis is a classic that’s had a modern refresh, with an overhauled suspension system. The front elastic bungee system gives you options for additional external storage.

• 40+ different styles
• 15 inch padded laptop compartment
• Fleece-lined mini-pocket for phone or sunglasses
• Women-specific version available
• Removable waist belt

• Fleece-lined pockets can be difficult to clean

North Face Recon

The ultra durable, 30 liter capacity North Face Recon backpack will get you safely from point A to B. 360 degrees of reflectivity will keep you safe during your commute, making this a great pick for cyclists and commuters.

• Durable polyester
• 15 inch padded laptop compartment
• 30 L capacity
• 360 degrees of reflectivity
• Women-specific version available

• Compartments can feel cramped

North Face Jester

The North Face Jester backpack is considered by many to be the ultimate campus backpack. The front compartment offers internal organization for laptop / tablet. The Jester backpack offers organizational features such as pen holders, a front accessory pocket and an integrated key clip.

• 20+ style options
• 15 inch padded laptop compartment
• Reflective bike-light loop, water bottle tabs and shoulder-strap webbing create 360 degrees of reflectivity

• Front bungees might not be used much

North Face Surge

The Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Backpack is a sleek and classic backpack that is a solid and popular choice for many school students. This pack is sleek and streamlined, meaning it won’t cramp your style. At the same time, it comes in 41 colours and patterns, so you’ll still be able to stand apart in a crowd. it’s a hardworking pack that will safely house your laptop and other school books and supplies.

As one reviewer put it:

My daughter picked this blue floral one for school this year and LOVES it. Nice and big, very good quality. In a school where everyone has the same 10 backpacks, she’s never had anyone with one of hers, which is only one of the reasons we love Herschel. All of our Herschel backpacks still look brand new, not A thread out of place! (Herschel)

• Huge assortment of 41 styles, patterns and color combinations
• Internal media pocket with headphone port
• Signature striped fabric liner
• 15″ laptop sleeve

• Fewer compartments than some alternatives
• Not waterproof

North Face Berkeley

The Nike Heritage Backpack is a truly well-equipped backpack. Its heavy-duty polyester finish makes it ideal for students who love sports. Plus there’s a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a front zippered pocket, ideal for storing pens, pencils and electronics. The bag’s shoulder straps and back panel are padded, so it will be a comfortable carry throughout your school day.

• Sleek and stylish look
• Zippered main compartment offers room for your gear
• Densely woven polyester provides heavyweight support
• Internal sleeve can store up to a 15″ laptop
• Padded shoulder straps and back panel for comfort

• Prominent branding may put off non-Nike fans
• Not waterproof