The North Face
Borealis Backpack
The North Face Borealis is a commuter backpack designed for everyday use, constructed from rugged ripstop fabric with a plaid texture and featuring a padded 15-inch laptop compartment and adjustable shoulder straps. It provides multiple zippered pockets, a front elastic bungee system, and a padded back panel, with dimensions of 19.25 x 14 x 6.5 inches. While users report long-term durability for commuting, school, and travel, some note that newer models have quality issues and that it is not ideal for hiking.
Color
Size
Specifications
- Material
- Main material: 100% nylon; Lining: 100% polyester
- Gender
- male
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Dimensions
- 14x6.5x19.25 in
Product Insights
The North Face Borealis Backpack is a chiropractor-endorsed pack designed to reduce spinal pressure via a recessed spine channel, injection-molded contoured straps, and a layout that centers heaviest loads. Its FlexVent suspension prioritizes cushioned support over breathability, making it ideal for everyday carry but not for hiking. However, recent quality concerns—zipper breakage, peeling, loose water bottle pockets—undermine its $135 CAD value compared to more durable alternatives like Osprey. The laptop sleeve offers ample padding for 13-inch devices but minimal protection for 15-inch ones, and its sewn-in design occupies interior space. The bungee cord system is a key differentiator, enabling quick loading and compression, though the dense foam shoulder straps reduce airflow. While the limited lifetime warranty covers defects, buyers note a decline in longevity versus older models.
- Chiropractic certification
Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association and co-designed with a chiropractic physician.
Why this is supported
The Borealis is among nine backpack styles endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association. It was developed in collaboration with chiropractic physician Dr. Scott Bautch.
The Big Shot, Borealis, Box Shot, Cornice, Hotshot, On Sight, Recon, Surge, and Yavapai are the endorsed styles.
chiroeco.comThe North Face decided to team up with Scott Bautch, who is certified in chiropractic spinal trauma and as a chiropractic sports physician, to make its backpacks a no-brainer.
spokesman.com- Shoulder straps
Injection-molded contoured straps reduce pressure points and promote two-shoulder carry.
Why this is supported
The FlexVent suspension includes injection-molded shoulder straps with flex points that alleviate strain, and the straps are anatomically contoured for male or female shapes, making them comfortable enough to avoid one-shoulder slinging.
Injection molded shoulder straps: creating innovative flex points to alleviate clavicle and pressure point strain;
chiroeco.comThey're better for backs, Bautch explains, because the wide, padded shoulder straps are molded into a shape that's comfy to wear, so there's never any reason to sling the bag over one shoulder.
spokesman.comAnatomically correct shoulder straps: constructed in a shape specifically suited for males or females;
chiroeco.com- Spine relief
Recessed spine channel on back panel plus layout that centers heaviest load.
Why this is supported
The back panel features a recessed channel to take pressure off the spine, and the interior layout is designed to encourage packing heaviest items first for better weight distribution.
Back panels with improved fit: featuring a recessed channel designed to take pressure off the spine and a more comfortable fabrication for load-bearing activities;
chiroeco.comAnd the interior is constructed to encourage kids to put the heaviest objects in first, which makes them easier to lug around.
spokesman.com- Suspension trade-off
FlexVent suspension prioritizes cushioned support over breathability for everyday carry.
Why this is supported
The FlexVent system uses molded foam that provides supportive comfort but sacrifices breathability, making it more suitable for climate-controlled commutes than for hot trail use.
- Durability
Newer Borealis models show zipper breakage and peeling, unlike older ones lasting >10 years.
Why this is supported
Owners of earlier Borealis units describe exceptional longevity. One verified buyer reports:
Fast forward 16 years, and I still haven’t needed a new backpack.
u/MaraBrightwood in r/BuyItForLifeIn contrast, recent reviews consistently cite two failure points:
Older models have proven very durable, lasting over a decade, but newer versions reportedly suffer from peeling and zipper issues.
How is the long-term durability of the Borealis?These accounts align with brand-claim caveats suggesting the ergonomic build may not match the durability expected from the ACA endorsement, and that a new bungee feature does not offset the decline.
- Water bottle pockets
Water bottle pockets are loose, causing standard bottles to fall out.
Why this is supported
Multiple owners report a design flaw in the current Borealis:
the water bottle holders aren't very snug. Multiple times things fall out
u/ultronprime616 in r/backpacksQ&A sources confirm this, noting the pockets are loose even for standard bottles.
- Value
At $135 CAD, value suffers from quality decline; buyers recommend Osprey for durability.
Why this is supported
Long-term Borealis users observe that the current $135 CAD price tag accompanies a perceived quality decline. One commenter states:
Quality of so many things has gone down, while prices increase.
u/entatlrg in r/backpacksAs a result, some shoppers migrate to brands like Osprey, which offers an unconditional repair guarantee that better protects their investment.
- Comfort
Reduces spinal pressure with a chiropractor-designed back panel and straps.
Why this is supported
The North Face collaborated with a chiropractor on the Borealis’s padding and back panel, earning ACA endorsement.
The North Face decided to team up with Scott Bautch, who is certified in chiropractic spinal trauma and as a chiropractic sports physician, to make its backpacks a no-brainer.
spokesman.comBack panels with improved fit: featuring a recessed channel designed to take pressure off the spine
chiroeco.comInjection molded shoulder straps: creating innovative flex points to alleviate clavicle and pressure point strain
chiroeco.comA sternum strap with an integrated whistle buckle adds safety. The bungee cord also works as a compression system:
The bungie system can also be used to reduce the volume of the pack.
trailandtravelgear.com- Travel versatility
Fits under airline seats, holds laptop, water, folders with adjustable bungee.
Why this is supported
The Borealis measures 6.5 in deep, fitting under most airline seats, and its 14 in width lets letter-size folders lie flat.
The front bungee cord features clip-on ends for easy access:
Unlike most other bungee backpacks, the Borealis is designed with clips on the front of the elastic cord
backpackies.comThe cord can be removed from its attachment points and reconfigured
trailandtravelgear.comThe laptop compartment uses a padded sleeve with a false bottom; it fits 13 in models comfortably, while 15 in machines have minimal side padding.
The 15-inch laptop compartment is a dedicated, padded sleeve with a false bottom that suspends the laptop slightly above the floor
How does the 15-inch laptop compartment protection work? Is it a padded sleeve or just a false bottom?Most versions fit a 13-inch laptop comfortably; some newer models may hold a 15-inch, but with minimal protection
What size laptop can the Borealis hold?Water bottle pockets are generous but not snug, and items can slip out during walking.
the water bottle holders aren’t very snug. Multiple times things fall out
u/ultronprime616 in r/backpackssome users report they can be loose, and items may fall out during active use
Do the water bottle pockets securely hold standard-sized bottles, or do they tend to slip out?Multiple users caution that the bag lacks frame, hip straps, and ventilation, making it a commuter bag rather than a hiking pack.
You’d wind up replacing this very quickly. This is more of a commuter bag.
u/CTMatthew in r/hikinggearit does not have all of the strap and back adjustability that you might like for a hiking pack, and it is also frameless, sitting flush to your back meaning a lack of airflow.
u/philosophicalquokka in r/hikinggear- Laptop fit
13-inch laptops fit with ample padding; 15-inch laptops have minimal protection and may contact the pack floor.
Why this is supported
The Borealis's laptop compartment is designed for 15-inch laptops with a false bottom for shock absorption. However, user feedback notes that
Most versions fit a 13-inch laptop comfortably; some newer models may hold a 15-inch, but with minimal protection.
What size laptop can the Borealis hold?The false bottom lifts a 15-inch device only slightly, so over time it can contact the pack floor when set down, reducing drop protection. On the positive side, the 14-inch internal width accommodates a 15-inch laptop flat without bending, making it easier to slide in and out and protecting from curved-position damage.
- Sleeve padding
Felt lining protects from scratches but not impacts; a stiff liner provides some shock resistance.
Why this is supported
The laptop sleeve lining is felt, which protects from scratches but provides no foam cushioning for impacts. As one user noted,
However, the back pocket in it is felt and designed for a laptop, not for a bladder
u/philosophicalquokka in r/hikinggear. To counter this, the sleeve includes a stiff liner that adds structure and shock resistance, preventing the pack from flexing into the laptop.
- Sleeve design
The laptop sleeve is permanently sewn in, ensuring consistent protection but occupying interior space.
Why this is supported
The Borealis's laptop sleeve is sewn into the pack, unlike some competitors that offer a removable sleeve. This guarantees that the protection is always present and eliminates the risk of misplacing the sleeve, but it also means the interior volume is always partially consumed by the sleeve, even when not carrying a laptop.
- Water bottle pocket
Buyers report that standard bottles fall out of side pockets during normal use.
Why this is supported
Buyer reports consistently confirm that the side water bottle pockets are not secure. One Reddit user reported:
the water bottle holders aren't very snug. Multiple times things fall out
u/ultronprime616 in r/backpacks. Another Q&A response summarizes the design tradeoff:
The water bottle pockets are designed to hold standard-sized bottles, but some users report they can be loose, and items may fall out during active use.
Do the water bottle pockets securely hold standard-sized bottles, or do they tend to slip out?A third response notes that reviewers wish the pockets were deeper, suggesting insufficient depth is a contributing factor.
- Bungee versatility
Clip-on bungee enables quick loading and can be removed for reconfiguration
Why this is supported
The Borealis's front bungee uses side-release clips, enabling quick loading and unloading. It can also be fully detached and reconfigured for different items.
Unlike most other bungee backpacks, the Borealis is designed with clips on the front of the elastic cord that allow for easier loading and unloading of items.
backpackies.comAdditionally, the cord can be removed and reconfigured:
The cord can be removed from its attachment points and reconfigured, allowing me options when figuring out the best way to secure items to the back of the pack.
trailandtravelgear.com- Bungee compression
Tightening the bungee reduces pack volume when underfilled
Why this is supported
When the pack is underfilled, tightening the front bungee alongside the side straps reduces volume, eliminating fabric sag and keeping the load stable. That secondary compression function is noted by reviewers:
The bungie system can also be used to reduce the volume of the pack.
trailandtravelgear.com- Competitive advantage
Exterior bungee cord system is absent on Osprey Daylite Plus and Patagonia Refugio
Why this is supported
Unlike competitors such as the Osprey Daylite Plus and Patagonia Refugio, the Borealis includes a front bungee cord system, enabling external stowage that those packs lack. Research confirms:
The exterior bungee cord system — absent on both the Osprey Daylite Plus and the Patagonia Refugio — enables quick external stowage of a rain jacket, bike helmet, or yoga mat, effectively extending the pack’s hauling capacity for urban multi-mission use.
How it stacks up against competitor daypacks — front_bungee_cord_storage- Dimensions
14-inch internal length fits letter-size folders; 6.5-inch depth for tight spaces.
Why this is supported
The Borealis's internal length of 14 inches (matching the pack's stated length) allows letter-size folders and binders to lie flat without bending, while its 6.5-inch depth (the stated width) keeps the load close to the body for easier maneuvering in crowded transit. These dimensions provide more usable space than the Osprey Daylite Plus for commuting and student use.
- Back panel
Cushioned FlexVent panel for daily commutes, not designed for hiking.
Why this is supported
The Borealis uses a FlexVent molded-foam suspension with air channels, providing cushioned support for urban carry. However, it lacks a frame, hip belt, and back ventilation, making it unsuitable for hiking. As one Reddit user notes:
However, the back pocket in it is felt and designed for a laptop, not for a bladder, it does not have all of the strap and back adjustability that you might like for a hiking pack, and it is also frameless, sitting flush to your back meaning a lack of airflow.
u/philosophicalquokka in r/hikinggear. The Borealis is one of the first backpacks endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association for reducing spinal stress, a certification the Osprey Daylite Plus does not hold. The ACA states:
The Big Shot, Borealis, Box Shot, Cornice, Hotshot, On Sight, Recon, Surge, and Yavapai are the endorsed styles.
chiroeco.com. The North Face collaborated with chiropractor Scott Bautch during development, as reported by the Spokesman:
The North Face decided to team up with Scott Bautch, who is certified in chiropractic spinal trauma and as a chiropractic sports physician, to make its backpacks a no-brainer.
spokesman.com- Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects.
Why this is supported
The North Face's limited lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects, while the Osprey Daylite Plus's All Mighty Guarantee offers unconditional free repair for any reason regardless of age. This gives the Daylite Plus a distinct advantage for buyers who prioritize lifetime service certainty.
- External features
Front bungee cord with clips for easy stowage; sternum strap whistle for safety.
Why this is supported
The Borealis's exterior bungee cord system, absent on the Osprey Daylite Plus, enables quick external stowage of items like a rain jacket or bike helmet. As noted by Backpackies,
Unlike most other bungee backpacks, the Borealis is designed with clips on the front of the elastic cord that allow for easier loading and unloading of items.
backpackies.com. Additionally, the sternum strap integrates a whistle, a safety feature not commonly found on city-oriented backpacks like the Osprey Daylite Plus.
- Hiking suitability
Missing hiking essentials: frame, hip belt, ventilation, and hydration sleeve.
Why this is supported
The Borealis is widely criticized for missing hiking essentials. One user notes:
it is also frameless
u/philosophicalquokka in r/hikinggearThe back panel sits flush, causing a lack of airflow, and the front pocket is lined for a laptop, not a bladder. Another reviewer states:
does not have load-lifter straps
Does the Borealis have a sternum strap or any load-lifter straps for better weight distribution?The overall verdict is that it is a commuter bag:
lacks necessary features like a frame, hip straps, and ventilation; it's better suited for commuting and everyday use.
Is the Borealis good for hiking?- DWR maintenance
Non-PFC DWR finish reactivates with 10–15 minutes of low heat tumble.
Why this is supported
After washing, the DWR can be reactivated with a 10–15 minute tumble dryer cycle on low heat, which re-orients the polymer coating. When beading fades, a spray-on reproofer restores light-rain protection. Hand washing with mild detergent or a technical cleaner removes body oils that degrade DWR, while avoiding fabric softeners and bleach preserves the coating and the nylon's tensile strength.
- Longevity
Earlier Borealis models have lasted over 16 years; recent quality may vary.
Why this is supported
An owner reported that an older Borealis lasted 16 years of daily high school, college, and travel use, stating:
Fast forward 16 years, and I still haven’t needed a new backpack.
u/MaraBrightwood in r/BuyItForLifeHowever, some users of newer models report peeling material and zipper failures, indicating that overall pack longevity may vary by production year. One user noted:
Quality of so many things has gone down, while prices increase.
u/entatlrg in r/backpacks- Bungee system
Metal grommets at stress points and removable bungee reduce fabric wear.
Why this is supported
Elastic cord runs through metal grommets at stress points, preventing the nylon fabric from tearing under tension when lashing bulky loads to the front. The front bungee cord is fully removable and reconfigurable, allowing detach to avoid long-term creasing or reposition for odd-shaped gear, reducing localized stress on the fabric.
- Shoulder strap breathability
Dense foam shoulder straps reduce airflow, adding to clamminess.
Why this is supported
The injection-molded shoulder straps are anatomically contoured for comfort, but their dense foam construction limits breathability, contributing to an overall clammy feel in warm conditions.
Injection molded shoulder straps: creating innovative flex points to alleviate clavicle and pressure point strain;
chiroeco.com- Sternum strap whistle
Integrated whistle in sternum buckle for emergency signaling.
Why this is supported
The
whistle integrated into the sternum buckle is a direct carryover from The North Face's alpine heritage
How it stacks up against competitor daypacks — sternum_strap_whistle_buckle. It is a feature
rarely found on city-specialized packs like the Fjallraven Kanken and Patagonia Refugio
How it stacks up against competitor daypacks — sternum_strap_whistle_buckle,
adding a layer of utility for outdoor-adjacent commutes or campus life where signaling could come into play
How it stacks up against competitor daypacks — sternum_strap_whistle_buckle.
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Front view of a black backpack with a crisscross elastic bungee on the front, embroidered white upper logo and white printed model name near the bottom, visible top carry handle and top zipper pulls.
- Overall shapeVertical oval-shaped backpack shown from the front with a slightly rounded top and tapered bottom.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.02 · w 0.88 · h 0.96 (high) - Front bungee systemElastic cord laced in a diamond/crisscross pattern across the front face with small plastic cord sliders at intersecting points and a cord end toggle at the bottom center.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.18 · w 0.76 · h 0.70 (high) - Top logo embroidery“White embroidered three-line text logo reading THE NORTH FACE with the half-dome arc to the right, centered on the upper front panel.”
1 region
x 0.32 · y 0.06 · w 0.36 · h 0.12 (high) - Lower model name text“White printed text reading BOREALIS located near the bottom center seam of the front panel.”
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.90 · w 0.28 · h 0.06 (high) - Top carry handle and zipper pullsPadded loop carry handle at the top with two visible zipper pulls and a short webbing lash sitting behind the handle.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.00 · w 0.44 · h 0.12 (high) - Side pocket outlinesSoft fabric side pockets integrated into each side seam, visible as slight openings and stitched seams.
2 regions
x 0.02 · y 0.34 · w 0.12 · h 0.46 (medium); x 0.86 · y 0.34 · w 0.12 · h 0.46 (medium) - Fabric textureMain fabric appears to have a subtle ripstop grid texture on the upper front panel and smoother woven fabric on the lower front.
2 regions
x 0.22 · y 0.04 · w 0.56 · h 0.26 (high); x 0.18 · y 0.30 · w 0.64 · h 0.60 (high) - Bottom webbing loopsTwo horizontal webbing strap loops located at the lower front edge, one on each side of the center bottom cord toggle.
2 regions
x 0.18 · y 0.88 · w 0.14 · h 0.08 (high); x 0.68 · y 0.88 · w 0.14 · h 0.08 (high)
Other
Studio product shot centered on a light neutral background with soft shadows beneath; even frontal lighting and no props.
- Shot compositionBackpack centered in frame, full frontal view, image crops a small amount of the topmost handle area but shows most of the product.
- Background and lightingUniform light gray background with soft shadow under the backpack indicating a studio light source from above and slightly front.
Colors
matte black· main body#0E0E0Ebright white· logo and upper textbright white· lower model name text#C4C4C4- Overall shapeVertical oval-shaped backpack shown from the front with a slightly rounded top and tapered bottom.
- 02
Product
Rear view of a black backpack showing padded back panel, two padded shoulder straps with sternum and waist straps, side compression straps, and a top haul handle.
- Back panel paddingRectangular horizontal-stitched padded back panel with several evenly spaced padded segments covered in textured mesh fabric.
1 region
x 0.29 · y 0.12 · w 0.42 · h 0.70 (high) - Shoulder strapsTwo wide, heavily padded shoulder straps with reinforced stitched edges; each strap has a horizontal reflective or lighter-gray webbing loop near upper middle.
2 regions
x 0.18 · y 0.06 · w 0.28 · h 0.88 (high); x 0.50 · y 0.06 · w 0.34 · h 0.88 (high) - Sternum strap and buckleAdjustable sternum strap crossing between the shoulder straps with a quick-release plastic buckle positioned slightly right of center.
1 region
x 0.48 · y 0.56 · w 0.20 · h 0.12 (high) - Waist strap and bucklesLower waist strap webbing with a plastic buckle and adjustable tail straps emerging from the padded hip belt area at the bottom front of the pack.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.78 · w 0.64 · h 0.18 (high) - Side compression and pocket detailsVertical side compression straps with small webbing tabs and a small zippered or mesh pocket opening visible on the left side of the pack (viewer left).
1 region
x 0.03 · y 0.36 · w 0.28 · h 0.54 (high) - Top haul handlePadded top haul handle with a stitched seam, centered at the pack top between the shoulder straps.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.02 · w 0.28 · h 0.10 (high) - Material finishMain fabric appears to be a smooth, matte woven textile while strap faces use a slightly textured or ripstop weave and back panel uses a breathable mesh.
- Brand text on strap“THE NORTH FACE”
1 region
x 0.78 · y 0.72 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium)
Other
Studio-style product shot on a light neutral background with soft even lighting and minimal shadows, image focused on the rear of the backpack and cropped at the base with some strap tails extending onto the surface.
- Shot compositionRear-facing three-quarter view centered in frame, showing the full height of the pack and most of the rear-facing components; lower strap tails lie on the flat surface.
- Background and lightingPlain light gray background with soft diffuse lighting producing gentle shadows beneath the pack and minimal specular highlights on fabric.
Colors
matte black· main body fabric#0E0E0Ddark charcoal· back panel mesh padding#221F21white· brand logo textmatte black (webbing)· strap webbing and buckles#0E0E0E- Back panel paddingRectangular horizontal-stitched padded back panel with several evenly spaced padded segments covered in textured mesh fabric.
- 03
Product
Close-up of the backpack's upper front compartments showing multiple zippered pockets, internal organizer panel, padded light-gray laptop/tablet sleeve, top carry loop, and zipper pulls.
- Compartment layoutTwo main front compartments visible with separate curved top zippers; a smaller front organizer pocket is open showing internal pockets and a padded sleeve behind it.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.08 · w 0.88 · h 0.84 (high) - Organizer panelInternal organizer panel made from medium gray fabric includes a horizontal zippered pocket and stitched flat pockets/slots below it.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.28 · w 0.54 · h 0.28 (high) - Padded sleeve liningLight-gray padded sleeve or pocket lip with soft fabric edging visible at the lower edge of the open organizer pocket.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.56 · w 0.52 · h 0.16 (high) - Top carry loopShort, stitched top carry loop formed from black webbing located between the two upper compartment zippers.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.02 · w 0.28 · h 0.12 (high) - Zippers and teethExposed coil zipper teeth in black on curved zipper tracks for each compartment; zipper tape matches exterior fabric color.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.02 · w 0.64 · h 0.52 (high) - Zipper pullsMultiple zipper pulls: molded triangular black plastic pulls attached to cord loops on exterior compartment zippers, and a small silver metal pull on the internal zip pocket.
2 regions
x 0.66 · y 0.40 · w 0.26 · h 0.30 (high); x 0.16 · y 0.36 · w 0.08 · h 0.10 (high) - Metal pull text“YKK”
1 region
x 0.16 · y 0.36 · w 0.08 · h 0.10 (medium) - Exterior fabric textureExterior made from a densely woven, slightly textured black fabric with faint ripstop grid visible on some panels.
1 region
x 0.50 · y 0.18 · w 0.46 · h 0.72 (high) - Cord and bungee detailThin elastic cord threaded through lower right-side webbing eyelets with a plastic cord lock visible at the edge.
1 region
x 0.74 · y 0.66 · w 0.22 · h 0.28 (high)
Other
Studio close-up on a neutral light gray background showing the backpack from an angled top-front perspective; even soft lighting with minimal shadows.
- Shot compositionTight studio close-up framing focused on the backpack's upper front and organizer area, cropped at lower front pocket and right side.
- BackgroundUniform light gray background with no visible texture or props.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (high) - Lighting and shadowSoft, even lighting from above-left producing gentle shadows along zipper seams and inside open pockets.
Colors
black· exterior fabric#0E0D0Dmedium gray· internal organizer panel#7B7A7Dlight gray· padded sleeve liningsilver· metal zipper pull#A2A3AC- Compartment layoutTwo main front compartments visible with separate curved top zippers; a smaller front organizer pocket is open showing internal pockets and a padded sleeve behind it.
Documents & Data
Customer Reviews
13 total13 reviews · out of 5
Pratique
Tellement beau et super pratique
Grand sac très pratique
Spacieux, léger et Imperméable. Très pratique pour emporter mon portable et accessoires puisque je fais du télétravail hybride. Également très pratique pour les fins de semaines au chalet.
Sac à dos The North Face
Magnifique sac à dos avec plein de rangements. J'adore ce produit
Great Bag
North Face bags usually last a long time so I'm hoping this one will as well. Seems to be a quality constructed bag and the price was good.
Good value backpack
Light, spacious (28 litres), lots of pockets, comfortable to wear. Good value particularly on sale.
Livraison ultra rapide
Super sac et livré le lendemain de la commande
Sac à dos
Super ! Plein de rangements
Great backpack
Exactly as advertised, very roomie and comfortable.
.
.
Lili
Très beau et pratique. Je recommande.
Amazing size!
Large backpack for a great sale price.
Great Backpack
Perfect size backpack for a day trip. Also I got a great deal before they pull it off from the website. I guess you should always go check out the website.
Super produit
Super produit
Reddit Insights
6 threads · r/backpacks, r/BuyItForLife, r/hikinggear, r/onebagReddit users have mixed opinions on the North Face Borealis, praising its durability for everyday carry and travel, but criticizing declining quality in newer models and its unsuitability for serious hiking.
While many users report excellent long-term durability with older Borealis models, numerous complaints highlight quality degradation in recent versions, such as zipper failures and peeling. The bag is widely regarded as a good commuter and travel backpack but is not recommended for hiking.
Themes
Use Cases
- Daily commute and work
- Travel (one-bag/personal item)
- School and college
- Day hikes (with limitations)
Watch Out For
Compared To
vs Osprey Daylite/Daylite Plus
Osprey packs are generally preferred for hiking due to better support and features, while the Borealis offers more space for everyday use.
vs Fjallraven
Some users recommend Fjallraven as a more durable alternative for daily backpacks.
vs Patagonia
Mentioned as a higher-quality brand, though some note their backpacks may also cause clothing peeling.
Source Threads
Quality decline complaint
Quality of so many things has gone down, while prices increase.
u/entatlrgr/backpacksView thread →
16-year durability
Fast forward 16 years, and I still haven’t needed a new backpack. Carried it daily for 4 years of high school and 4 years of college, plus countless trips after that, and it’s still going strong.
u/MaraBrightwoodr/BuyItForLifeView thread →
Not for hiking, commuter bag
You’d wind up replacing this very quickly. This is more of a commuter bag.
u/CTMatthewr/hikinggearView thread →
Hiking suitability critique
However, the back pocket in it is felt and designed for a laptop, not for a bladder, it does not have all of the strap and back adjustability that you might like for a hiking pack, and it is also frameless, sitting flush to your back meaning a lack of airflow.
u/philosophicalquokkar/hikinggearView thread →
6-year EDC durability
I've had the old version of this backpack for 6 years and used it as EDC for college, work, as well as my personal item when traveling. The bag has held up well
u/Alias901r/onebagView thread →
Water bottle and pocket issues
I just got TNF borealis, and it's pretty good except for 2 things (1) the water bottle holders aren't very snug. Multiple times things fall out (2) The top outer accessible pocket is very top heavy - I'm not sure how to describe it ... it just bulges out if you over pack it
u/ultronprime616r/backpacksView thread →