So, in terms of the carrying comfort of the backpacks, both of these are fairly equal. However, as you can see in the photos, the pockets on the Jester are much smaller than the ones on the Borealis. In fact, the backrest is characterized by the presence of a renewed padded mesh panel and breathable lumbar panel to which are added two custom-made injection-molded shoulder straps. Shop Borealis Classic Backpack today at The North Face. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. So chose the one that is a better fit for you, and head over to Amazon. The North Face Recon vs The North Face Borealis; Product Comparison: The North Face Recon vs The North Face Borealis. This is something similar to what we saw earlier on the Osprey Quasar. So a 15.6” laptop should fit perfectly inside both sleeves. Don't you hate it when manufactuters do that :> But never fear, I've got your back (no pun intended). Features. In fact, their unforgettable motto which is very well-known among us outdoor lovers is: “Never stop exploring”! The Borealis backpack features the new FlexVent suspension system designed specifically to maximize comfort. Main Differences Between The Borealis and The Borealis Classic, 7 Black Guess Backpacks For Fall and Winter. Another element that differentiates them is the upper handle, which is padded in the Borealis, whereas in the Classic it is not. For one thing, it is more expensive, so if you are on a budget definitely go for the Jester. Already have an account? August 26, 2015 by admin. If you often struggle with one of the straps sliding off your shoulder, then you should definitely try out a backpack with a sternum strap. In this case, we will also study the model in question by taking into consideration three main aspects, namely the design, materials and functionality. Or in other words, it is time to check out all features that the Borealis has but the Jester doesn't. Plus I can find things that are kept in there more quickly, since it's shorter. Now it’s time to take a closer look at another backpack that, like the previous one, is one of the most appreciated products of the American brand. Featuring a high capacity of 28L, it can house a personal laptop up to 15 inches, a set of clothing, books, a tablet, your bike helmet, and even your favorite teacup pig! ExpertWorldTravel.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Both backpacks feature a padded laptop sleeve in their main compartments. However, if you would like to see a few more options first, then continue to the part 2 of our giant comparison of the North Face Surge, Recon, Jester and Borealis backpacks! 12.45 oz. We have chosen two famous backpacks, the Borealis and the Borealis Classic, and now we will try to understand together which one would be the better choice according to your needs. Fjällräven Kånken Real vs Fake: How to Spot It? The North Face was established in San Francisco, in 1966, by the Tompkins, a married couple who loved nature and the mountains. The pockets are made of mesh on both backpacks. That said, the Borealis Classic backpack is the ideal travel companion for any type of adventure both in the city and outdoors. Naturally, the Borealis might be slightly less comfortably simply because it is bigger and will be heavier when you fill it. Privacy Policy, Lifetime warranty (repair of manufacturing defects is free, otherwise there will be a fee for repair), Endorsed by American Chiropractic Association, The North Face Jester Backpack, Sedona Sage, One Size, The North Face Borealis Backpack, Night Green/Canary, One Size, The FlexVent suspension system boasts compression molded shoulder straps and a padded air-mesh back panel with a spine channel for maximum support and ventilationTwo mesh water bottle pockets, Floating padded laptop sleeve in main compartment protects laptop from bumps and fallsComfortable, padded top haul handle, Secondary compartment has internal organization with a secure zippered pocket, Velcro pocket and pen pocketsSternum strap with whistle buckle, Front elastic bungee for external storageLaptop sleeve 12 x 14 inches, Reflective bike-light loop, reflective water bottle tabs and reflective shoulder strap webbing create 360 degrees of reflectivity. You can see the white tag inside beside it is a holographic tag. They’re two of their most popular backpacks that are strikingly similar with a few small variations. Bottom line; get the backpack that you like the most. I will just list those below for you: And those are all the common features of these two backpacks. So, which one to choose between the Borealis and the Borealis Classic? One more storage feature that both backpacks have in common are the two side water bottle pockets. As you can see in the photo, the Borealis comes equipped with not only a dedicated phone compartment, but also a dedicated tablet compartment. In fact in this same pocket, we have pen holders, and other smaller open pockets, including one with a zip closure, and another, with Velcro closure. Free delivery & free returns. If you want more options, then the Bor… So, a this season black Borealis could set you back more than $100, but the one below isn’t really that much more expensive than the Jester. While the North Face Borealis will allow you to carry plenty of external gear, the North Face Surge has more in terms of internal compartments. First we will take a look at all the features that these two awesome backpacks share. Your email address will not be published. The Borealis dimensions are 19.75 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches, and it can hold 28 liters of gear. But, I would not advise you to decide on anything just now; we have yet to scratch beneath the surface! Add in the fact they look fairly similar and are only priced with a $10 difference can make choosing one over the other tricky. Advertiser Disclosure. While it isn’t the most compact backpack out there, or the most affordable, the North Face Borealis Backpack does … These materials make the Borealis Classic a solid accessory designed to last for years. The product images shown are for illustration purposes. If we talk about materials, Borealis is made of Nylon, Cordura and Ripstop fabric, which make the backpack capable of withstanding the common signs of wear, as well as those generally caused by (bad) weather. You can get them for half of their retail price there! The Jester is slightly smaller and therefore slightly lighter, but both are made of very high quality materials. Copyright © 2020 by Expert World Travel. Both of the backpacks boast North Face’s superb FlexVent suspension system. X. Below it, there is the famous logo, and lower down, the characteristic elastic cords. While both North Face backpacks are an excellent value, the Surge II is the better choice for all-around comfort, value and protection. We also need to remind you that for the Borealis Classic there is only one version for both, men and women. Other accessory elements of great utility are the upper handle, a strap at the height of the sternum and a storable ventral belt. And, both claim that the sleeves can perfectly fit laptops that are up to 15”. Therefore we can say that this model, just like the Borealis, lends itself to being a super versatile and perfect backpack for intensive use in your everyday life. Compare the main Features, Specifications, Prices and Select the Best Model. Among these, we recall the presence of a rigid backrest, sturdy shoulder straps and straps at the sternum and at the waist that allow the weight to be optimally distributed, thus making daily use comfortable. For one thing, when you have compression straps that go over the zipper of the main compartment, thieves will have a much harder time trying to unzip your backpack without you noticing. Whether you are looking to save a few pennies, or need a pack that will keep your gear super secure, this comparison will help you decide. Aspects that we believe make them perfect travel and adventure companions. In the Borealis we have seen how this is characterized by the presence of a well-padded upper handle, an extra compartment, as well as its internal structure “perceived” by many as less compressed compared than the Classic. The most obvious is related to the shape of the Borealis, which makes it seem even more spacious than the Classic. Resistance and sturdiness are qualities that one expects from a backpack designed by The North Face, a brand that for over fifty years has been dealing with making equipment and accessories for all lovers of the outdoor world. Let us know what you think in the comments below. Starting from its front side, we immediately encounter a small upper pocket with zip, large enough to store a cell phone, keys and handkerchiefs, etc. Whether we talk about design or functionality, between the two, we prefer the Borealis model. Granted, that backpack is intended for a different purpose, but we’re comparing comfort here, not purpose. ), you can fill this bad boy to the brim and not even feel it on your shoulders. 9 Italian Jeans Brands You Should Know (Our Top Picks), 9 American Jeans Brands You Should Know (Our Favorites). Pack up and go with The North Face® Borealis Luxe Backpack. The latter, as we have seen, serve as an “open” external pocket. North Face uses YKK zipper. If we talk about materials, Borealis is made of Nylon, Cordura and Ripstop fabric, which make the backpack capable of withstanding the common signs of wear, as well as those generally caused by (bad) weather. So let’s just say that it’s a good thing the waist belt on the Borealis is removable. The Verdict. The Borealis includes a removable waist belt. The 33 liter North Face Surge daypack is perfect for day trips and is a … In addition to that, the front compartment is also equipped with a few smaller zippered pockets and elastic webbing for all your cords and chargers. Other elements that make it ideal as a school backpack are for example the two padded compartments, one for a laptop and the other for tablets. The official The North Face online store. The North Face Borealis Backpack Wrap Up. Both packs are very close in size and volume, with the Jester checking in at 18.75 x 14 x 7 inches and 26L, and the Borealis a little bit more narrow at 18.75 x 12.5 x 8 inches, and a touch less volume at 25L. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. Although in reality, as we have seen, the latter is characterized by a greater capacity (1 liter more). It’s mind-blowing. North Face Surge and Borealis Design As you can see on the sample picture above, both of them are a very compact backpack and while Borealis looks like a bulkier option, this model capacity is actually lower at 28/29 liters while the former is at 31 liters. So if you tend to carry your tablet around a lot, you will definitely benefit from this feature. How much of a difference does it make? The R in North Face is a distinguish one. After this front pocket, we have a large main compartment where inside there is a pocket designed to accommodate a laptop of up to 13 inches inside. Then, we have another large compartment, where inside there is a padded pocket designed to accommodate a laptop of up to 15 inches. Patagonia Refugio Pack vs. The Classic is a little bit more spacious, as the total storage capacity is rated at 29 liters. That is why I will also say that these two bags would make good backpacks for hiking, in addition to already being really good daypacks. I really like the smaller front fleece-lined compartment. Click or call 800-927-7671. This is another feature that is lacking on the Jester. The two backpacks in addition to having a different capacity, also have a different weight. These multiple little pockets allow for excellent organization, but they don’t leave much space in the rest of the compartment for anything else. Buy The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack - Bookbag for Work, School, or Travel, Asphalt Grey/Silver Reflective, One Size: Casual Daypacks - Amazon.com FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases As you can see, the buckle of the sternum strap is actually the whistle. Today we will talk about two backpacks by the popular brand The North Face. © 2021 MyCasualStyle. Its suspension system helps support and pad your back while protective pockets guard your laptop and more. The North Face Jester dimensions are 19.75 x 13.25 x 7.5 inches, so is smaller than the other two in width and depth. So, the Borealis would be the obvious choice, right? You might also like: 7 Black Guess Backpacks For Fall and Winter. In some models, a potential pocket for the tablet is located on the main side of the laptop pocket. In addition, the dimensions of the laptop pockets are also different: in the Borealis 33.7 cm x 45 cm, and in the Borealis Classic 34.2 cm x 26.6 cm. Before we go into detail about anything, we will first take a look at the main design features of these backpacks. And the whistle buckle is pretty cool actually. On the other hand, someone in need of a smaller backpack will naturally opt for the Jester. On the other hand, if you drop your backpack while it’s open, it’s more likely that the laptop will slide out the sleeve. And the back panel also has a spine channel, which only reinforces the amount of support. And here, we can also find a practical padded lining, for a tablet. Yes, the Borealis has more features and even includes separate phone, tablet and laptop sleeves, but it also has its downsides. Comparison of The North Face Jester (T0CHJ4) vs The North Face Borealis Hiking Backpacks. North Face Surge daypack. The North Face Recon has 31 liters of storage vs. Borealis’ 28 liters. The North Face Borealis vs The North Face Recon Backpack. Laterally, the backpack has two mesh pockets that are perfect for carrying water but can easily be converted into a type of multi-purpose pocket. Continuing towards the back, we discover a front pocket (see image above) with zip closure and equipped with organizer, ideal for example, to put a mobile phone, pens, handkerchiefs, etc. North Face and Patagonia are both dependable backpacks and fall within the same price range. Roger is a little obsessed with travel. However, I do have to note that the bungee system on the Jester doesn’t seem too trustworthy. North Face make top-notch gear as we already saw that with their Back to Berkeley boot and  their toasty and waterproof jackets. It is meant for storage of any smaller items that would want to have handy. On the other hand, they help with securing the load of the backpack, particularly if you over-stuff it. Howbeit, everything we love about the North Face Jester is made better in the North Face Borealis Backpack. Additionally, there are also a few penholders, some smaller pocket and a dedicated phone pocket in both of the backpack’s front compartments. These are always a handy feature to have. The Borealis backpack has a smaller pocket that is at the very front, which is lined with fleece and it’s very easily accessible. You will love all of its different organizational features, and you will always stay comfortable when carrying it. First of all, North Face Borealis and North Face Borealis Classic do have different sizes. Sideways the Borealis Classic has also two mesh pockets that are perfect for carrying water, but can easily be converted into a type of multi-purpose pocket. We’ll examine them taking into consideration three main aspects: their design, materials and functionality, and finally we’ll try to decide which one would be the better choice. But that is something to expect, since it is the smaller backpack. The women's version of our much-loved Borealis pack features easy-access pockets, a women-specific FlexVent™ suspension, and the sought-after recommendation of the American Chiropractic Association. Product images, if not otherwise specified, come from Pinterest.com or are created by us. We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. But their backpacks are very worthy of your hard-earned money too. Other accessory elements, but certainly of great utility, are the padded upper handle, a strap at the height of the sternum with interlocking buckle and a removable waist belt. At this point, which one is right for you, the Borealis or the Borealis Classic? There is also another tag which has a red North Face tag I … So, let’s do that. Differences Between North Face Surge and North Face Borealis. And one more thing; I think this feature also gives a sporty vibe to these two backpacks. In this part of the review we will see what those features are.