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The North Face has been making quality backpacks since 1966, and their reputation for durability is well-deserved. Whether you need a bag for school, work, or weekend adventures, they’ve got something that fits the bill.
Here’s a look at nine of their most popular backpacks that customers absolutely love.
1. The North Face Women’s Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack
Built specifically with women in mind, the Borealis Commuter features a suspension system designed to fit comfortably on a female frame. The FlexVent technology has earned approval from the American Chiropractic Association, meaning your back will thank you after long days of carrying heavy loads.
Organization is a breeze with multiple compartments that keep everything in its place. Two external pockets work double duty as water bottle holders and quick-access storage for your phone.
A fleece-lined pocket protects sunglasses or keys from scratches.
Reflective details make you more visible during early morning or evening commutes, adding an important safety feature. At 27 liters with a 16-inch laptop sleeve, this pack handles daily essentials without feeling bulky or overwhelming on your shoulders.
2. The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack
The Recon has earned its status as a go-to classic for good reason. With a spacious 30-liter capacity, it swallows textbooks, gym clothes, and lunch without breaking a sweat.
The large mesh storage compartment and daisy-chain attachment points give you flexibility to customize how you carry your gear.
Made from recycled nylon ripstop fabric, this bag balances environmental responsibility with serious toughness. A water-repellent coating keeps your belongings dry when you’re caught in unexpected rain.
The 16-inch laptop sleeve provides protection from bumps during your commute.
Comfort comes standard thanks to articulated shoulder straps and a rounded back panel with soft chemise fabric. External mesh pockets hold water bottles or can squeeze in your phone when you need quick access while on the move.
3. THE NORTH FACE Surge Commuter Laptop Backpack
When you need extra room, the Surge delivers with 31 liters of storage space. Three large zippered pockets on the front make accessing your stuff incredibly easy, whether you’re rushing to catch a bus or searching for your keys in a parking lot.
The FlexVent suspension system uses injection-molded shoulder straps and a padded mesh back to distribute weight evenly. A lumbar panel provides ventilated support, keeping your back comfortable even when the pack is fully loaded.
This design earned recognition from the American Chiropractic Association.
Reflective details boost visibility in low-light conditions, while a whistle buckle on the sternum strap adds a safety element. The stand-up design means it won’t tip over when you set it down, keeping items secure inside.
A removable waist belt offers customizable support options.
4. The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack
Sometimes less is more, and the Jester proves this point beautifully. With 28 liters of capacity, it holds what you need without the bulk of larger packs.
Recent updates include increased recycled content and a simplified interior that makes finding things easier.
The pack now stands on its own, which is surprisingly handy when loading or unloading your stuff. A padded 16-inch laptop sleeve keeps your computer safe from accidental drops or bumps.
Two water bottle pockets can also hold other items when you need to stash something quickly.
FlexVent suspension technology features flexible shoulder straps and a breathable lumbar panel that keeps air flowing across your back. The American Chiropractic Association has endorsed this design, confirming it’s built with proper body support in mind for students and commuters alike.
5. The North Face Women’s Jester Luxe Everyday Laptop Backpack
The Jester Luxe takes the beloved Jester design and tailors it specifically for women’s bodies. A women-specific fit means the straps and back panel are positioned to sit naturally on female frames, reducing shoulder strain and improving overall comfort during extended wear.
Sustainability meets style with materials that are 75 to 100 percent recycled or sustainably sourced. The non-PFC water-repellent finish protects your belongings from moisture without using harmful chemicals.
YKK zippers provide smooth, reliable operation that won’t snag or stick.
A dedicated tablet sleeve joins the 16-inch laptop compartment, giving you protected storage for multiple devices. The American Chiropractic Association has certified this pack, recognizing its ergonomic design.
Available in attractive color combinations that stand out from the usual black and grey options.
6. The North Face Women’s Surge Commuter Laptop Backpack
Designed with input from women who actually use backpacks daily, the Women’s Surge features a suspension system engineered for female body shapes. The result is a pack that sits correctly on your shoulders and back, eliminating the awkward gaps or pressure points common with unisex designs.
Three large front pockets with secure zippers keep smaller items organized and easy to find. Daisy chain webbing on the exterior provides attachment points for carabiners or other gear.
Internal organization includes zip pockets and a padded laptop sleeve that accommodates computers up to 14.5 inches.
Reflective details increase your visibility to drivers and cyclists when walking in dim conditions. A removable waist belt and sternum strap with whistle buckle give you adjustable support options.
External water bottle pockets free up interior space for books, clothes, or lunch containers.
7. THE NORTH FACE Borealis Sling Bag
Not everyone needs a full-sized backpack, and the Borealis Sling offers a compact alternative. At just 6 liters, it carries essentials like your tablet, phone, wallet, and keys without the bulk.
The iconic bungee compression system from the original Borealis backpack makes an appearance here too.
A padded crossbody strap adjusts to fit comfortably across your chest or over your shoulder. Secure-zip pockets keep valuables safe and accessible.
The tablet sleeve measures 5.5 by 7.5 inches, perfect for smaller tablets or e-readers you want to bring along.
Made from recycled nylon ripstop with a water-repellent coating, this sling handles light rain without issue. A fleece-lined compartment protects delicate items from scratches.
The water bottle pocket fits a standard 12-ounce bottle, making it ideal for quick trips around town or short hikes.
8. The North Face Women’s Isabella 3.0 Backpack
Rock climber Margo Hayes helped design the Isabella 3.0, bringing real-world athlete insight to its development. Women’s focus groups also contributed feedback, ensuring the final product actually meets the needs of people who use backpacks daily rather than just sitting in a design studio.
The women-specific suspension system features an ergonomically shaped back panel and shoulder straps that follow natural body contours. At 20 liters, it’s sized perfectly for a full day out without feeling oversized or cumbersome.
A 16-inch laptop sleeve provides padded protection for your computer.
Minimalist design doesn’t mean sacrificing function. Two open pockets and a secure-zip pocket inside keep things organized.
Oversized water bottle pockets on the exterior hold large bottles securely. An easy-access zip pocket on the outside lets you grab frequently used items without opening the main compartment.
9. THE NORTH FACE Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack
Clean lines and modern styling make the Vault a favorite among students and young professionals. The sleek aesthetic doesn’t sacrifice practicality though.
A water-repellent finish protects contents from moisture, while the stand-alone design prevents tipping when you set it down on floors or desks.
FlexVent suspension uses injection-molded shoulder straps that flex with your movement rather than staying rigid. A padded mesh back panel and breathable lumbar section allow air circulation, preventing that sweaty back feeling during warm weather commutes.
The American Chiropractic Association has given this design their seal of approval.
The main compartment is genuinely spacious, easily holding textbooks, binders, and a change of clothes. A 15-inch laptop sleeve keeps your computer protected.
Two webbing handles on top make grabbing the pack convenient, and they’re positioned to provide balanced weight distribution when carrying by hand.
