North Face Borealis Backpack Review (2026)

Overview

The North Face Borealis Backpack is an excellent choice for students seeking durability and functionality in their daily carry. With its spacious main compartment and multiple organizational pockets, it's designed to accommodate textbooks, laptops, and other essentials, making it ideal for campus life.

Its comfortable padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel ensure that students can carry their load without discomfort. Built with weather-resistant materials, the Borealis is perfect for real-world use, whether navigating rainy days or commuting across campus. This backpack combines style and practicality, offering great value for students.

In-depth review

Design & build

The North Face Borealis Backpack is crafted with a blend of durability and functionality, making it an appealing choice for students. The exterior features a robust nylon fabric that is both water-resistant and resistant to wear and tear. The backpack is available in various colors, allowing students to express their personal style while maintaining a professional appearance.

One of the standout features of the Borealis is its FlexVent suspension system. This includes padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel that ensures comfort, even during long commutes or extended periods of wear. The overall design is ergonomic, distributing weight evenly across the shoulders, which is crucial for carrying heavy textbooks and laptops.

Performance for students

When it comes to performance, the Borealis excels in its organizational capacity. It boasts a large main compartment that can accommodate textbooks, notebooks, and a laptop up to 15 inches. Additionally, there are multiple pockets, including a front elastic bungee system for quick access to items like water bottles or umbrellas.

Students will appreciate the dedicated laptop sleeve, which is padded to protect their device from bumps and drops. However, while the bag offers substantial storage, some users may find the main compartment a bit tight when fully loaded, especially if combined with bulky items. Nevertheless, the versatility and organization of the Borealis make it an ideal companion for students balancing classes, study sessions, and extracurricular activities.

Battery & everyday use

For students who rely heavily on technology, the Borealis is equipped with an external USB port, allowing easy access to charge devices on the go. However, it's important to note that this feature requires a separate power bank, which is not included. This integration is particularly useful for students who spend long hours on campus, providing the convenience of charging devices without having to dig through the bag.

In terms of everyday use, the Borealis holds up well. The backpack is designed to withstand daily wear and tear, making it suitable for both urban and campus environments. However, the lack of a dedicated water bottle pocket can be a downside for some, as it may require students to place their bottles inside the main compartment, taking up valuable space.

Value for money

The North Face Borealis Backpack is positioned in the mid to high price range, which might raise questions regarding its value. While it is undoubtedly a well-constructed and functional backpack, students on a tight budget may need to consider whether the investment aligns with their needs. The durability and versatility suggest that it could last through multiple academic years, making it a worthwhile investment for some.

However, competing brands offer similar features at lower prices, which could appeal to budget-conscious students. Ultimately, the value for money will depend on individual priorities, such as durability versus cost.

Who should buy it

The North Face Borealis Backpack is ideal for students who prioritize comfort, organization, and a stylish design. It is particularly suited for those who commute frequently, whether by foot or bike, as its ergonomic design ensures comfort during long journeys. Additionally, tech-savvy students who need to charge devices on the go will find the USB port to be a significant benefit.

However, students with a strict budget or those who prefer minimalist designs might want to explore other options. Overall, if you value durability and performance in your backpack, the Borealis is a strong contender in the market, despite its few limitations.

Key specifications

Pros & cons