The North Face Borealis Backpack Review (2 Weeks of Use)

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[@porcivale]

Well i have one since 7 years ago and so far i explored more than 27 countries with it, climbed mountains, went trough rains, sun, wind and i love it... really comfy so i never had an issue with my back or water filtration. Really practical as well so i was used to put my towel with the bungee cords to get dry while i walked and also had my tripod attached with the side strap, computer, ipad, clothes, go pro..... at the end i still have it as a kind of trophy haha. Now i´m planning to get the new version :)

[@PackHacker2]

Thanks for sharing, Alejandro! - Austin

[@wardaniadewifc493]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing! Btw, what about the color? Does it fade? Since I live where sun shines most of the time, my bags usually fade quickly!

[@porcivale]

@@wardaniadewifc493 hi! Yes it’s faded mostly on the top. But the color it’s dark and light grey so I doesn’t look bad. As a little update… I just came last week from my trip in India and I used for about 1 month…. It was at the back of a motorbike (Himalayan) attached with bungee cords 😅 so I ride 2k km with the legend at the back. As funny tip I fucked up my laptop due to the rough terrain and I just put it on the slot without any additional cover. But that’s my fault 🤦‍♂️. Rather than that she still ready for the next adventure 🚀

[@wardaniadewifc493]

@@porcivale what a wonderful trip! And thank you for that too, I will keep my laptop cover as well. I'm choosing on what backpack to buy, your stories help! As well as inspires for more adventures 😄

[@cyberdockyard]

Dude, how did you hang your hiking poles, can you tell me?

[@dashw900i]

The hole is meant for putting snack wrappers in. I’ve recently got into hiking and found larger rucksacks have this feature.

[@MrLlama999]

Good to see mainstream reviews! The North Face bags are popular for a reason. They were the default on campus.

[@PeteOrta]

The only review on KZbin that addresses the lack of false bottom in the laptop compartment.

[@hzeijlstra]

I just bought it and do have to say that I think it’s not bad at all. There is about 4cm, which is enough. It could be the reason there aren’t a lot of videos mentioning this

[@PeteOrta]

@@hzeijlstra I bought one as well and figured this out. It was the earlier version that didn’t have a “false bottom”, but the newest ones do. We must have purchased the latest versions.

[@brooklynyte]

Mine isn't really false, the middle compartment utilizes that space. It kinda goes under the back compartment.

[@OccupiedMuffins]

you can get some cheap foam and stick it in the bottom of a laptop compartment. Its not great since a laptop backpack thats 100 dollars or more should just have something for it.

[@zengheist3882]

slits on the side of the water pouch are for the drink containers that have handles.

[@Kwa6Aug_Shorts]

This is a fantastic review! Very helpful. I love the angles you get with the camera; I feel like I can see the inside of the bag better than I can in the other reviews I've watched. I have this bag arriving today and I'm leaving on a trip next week. I can't wait to see how it does!

[@arasukiasyan4808]

I’ve had mine since 2016 and it’s pretty much bomb proof. Would use it for class in the weekdays and have no problem taking this camping or out to Joshua tree on the weekend. Total bargain for this bag.

[@PackHacker2]

Thanks for the insight 😃 It sounds like your bag has been around the block! -Eric

[@theplourde]

That’s good to know you can take the waist strap off completely instead of just keeping it tighter to the bag

[@PackHacker2]

Happy to help 😃 -Eric

[@shirts2003]

I found this backpack for 23$ at REI Co-op. The zipper at the top of the laptop compartment came apart. I have a seamstress repairing the issue. Great deal.

[@AA-bq4px]

I bought one in 2010 for about $50. I used it for college, then used it for traveling, then started using it for the gym, now I use it for work as an everyday backpack. I was surprised when traveling last month while in a cafe the waiter noticed it and brought an extra chair to put the backpack. I never realised how expensive they have become. But for me it has been very useful. Only downside was in the beginning the back padding was very rough and it somehow ruined my t shirts in the lower back area!

[@PackHacker2]

Wow-it sounds like you’ve gotten good use out of it! Thanks for sharing 😃 -Eric

[@SteezyG]

I've used the borealis classic for the past few years and it's been pretty bomb proof and versatile. However I do have to recommend the updated version to people. The split in the two compartments isn't the best in the classic version as the main compartment takes up space in the front pocket. Might as well have a smaller front pocket and bigger main one.

[@SteezyG]

Also, I agree with the hip belt. It's pointless, however I reverse it round on the back and use it to hold a skateboard. This is what has made this pack last so long for me. Not many packs hold a skateboard comfortably like this one does reversing the compression straps around.

[@yovanleonardo9135]

i think the hole on the water bottle pocket is to grab your bottle, without taking the pack off, more like reachable without breaking your arm, like some of other brand's outdoor backpack

[@joshuariggphotography8531]

You can remove the waist strap that’s what I have done and that water bottle hole is if you have a snack bar or something like that in there you can put your hand in there great for a snack while on a walk

[@IMKINDOFABIGDEAL13]

This bag is different now. Just got the new model today for just an every day bag. I move around from job site to job site several times a day and think this is gonna be perfect for my every day junk.

[@fmunyai001]

Not an average bag by all standards. Bought one over 5 years ago without paying much attention to the brand etc. I searched for its reviews recently as I couldn't believe how durable and practical it has been over the years. It is well put together, very spacious and comfortable. You can use it very creatively. There lots of practical fitments and pockets. I hike, bike and fly on this and it's never disappointed...it has remained 100% intact. I am looking to upgrade but it remains a favorite. If you have a comparable bag at this price range please recommend or I will just upgrade to the latest Borealis.

[@PackHacker2]

Thanks for sharing 🤙 -Eric

[@jaegelo]

one feature from the old borealis i wish they kept was for the hip belt, there was a little pocket that they could slide into to hide it away when not in use.

[@jaegelo]

@FotoByTom other people have stated that that's a pocket to put little trash in thsts also featured on other high end packs, but either way the old borealis had it in a different spot that was able to conceal it much better

[@dianaguerreiro9860]

I believe that small whole on the mesh for the water bottle pocket is the quick draw smartphone pocket !

[@Neonomide]

I got the newer version. The laptop compartment seems to have more space to the ground and feels safe enough. I like the side straps that make the pack closer to the body when less stuff is in. All in all, a fine pack for medium stuff hauling and I actually like the comfort at least as much as Osprey Talon ones (11 and 22 liters).

[@PackHacker2]

Thanks for sharing your insights! 🤙 -Eric

[@iiiprogressive]

Great review! I have the same exact model/color and i had my doubts that i got the women’s size but seeing the man wearing it in the video looks exactly like mine so cudos

[@poacher9118]

Just got mine in today. Very very impressed so far. Nice you can remove the hip strap too when you're not using it.

[@PackHacker2]

Glad it's working well for you so far. Keep us updated! 😊 - Rebecca

[@brooklynyte]

The sternum strap that's on the track has a built in whistle!

[@jorsefio]

Hey! i don't know if you guys are thinking about it, but i'd love to see a review on the Patagonia Chacabuco 30L

[@City-Hiker]

I like this old version Borealis more than the current version, but I searched and can’t find the Black color available.

[@yizusOfficial]

Same here, I’m looking for the black one

[@gobbedy]

@2:09 unfortunately, North Face has stopped making their borealis bags with mesh bottle pockets. @3:33 The shoulder straps also don't have the flex vents any more, they look a little cheaper. I just bought one, but the quality just seems inferior to the one in this video. I'll probably return it. Sucks...

[@peachimonn]

Ty for this video! I just got this backpack to use at my “tech” bag. I managed to snag one up on sale for 60.00 and it was so worth it.

[@user-gp5md9tb3w]

Which color did you get?

[@peachimonn]

@@user-gp5md9tb3w I got the white and gold one from dicks sporting goods ! :) still holding up great and I love it

[@juan_252]

@@peachimonn I got mine there for 94 bucks

[@Mvrderface]

looking for the perfect hike/camera bag, found out this range this week. Guess the Recon is still winning for me. Just afraid my camera bag/cube wont fit in that flat bottom..

[@Edwinsoda]

Good backpack overall the sidepockets/waterbottle holders wore out very quick and developed holes within a couple of weeks only con

[@dean8023]

I have this bag and use it for college but I have noticed that all my notebooks get really warped and twisted because of the way the back is meant to sit up straight. Anyone else have this problem or know a solution?

By now I'm pretty confused. How many versions of the TNF Borealis are there? I know currently you can buy the Borealis Classic and the Borealis, but none of them is the one you show on the video.

[@yeshing154]

Hey I have one concern with this pack…will water get into the slit for the hose If it rains will the water seep in and damage my laptop?

[@emmanuelmagallanes6452]

excelente video. Thank you. the borealis woul fit as a personali item?? Thank you

[@sergiodomingo5304]

i think i missed a specific detail on this video, but, is that backpack waterproof¿?

[@talkingtofu]

I used to own a surge since 2014 and recently bought a borealis this year after 9 years of use of the surge. I cam here just to justify my purchase haha

[@PackHacker2]

😂😂😂

[@peperodriguezdominguez5950]

the side hole on the water pocket is for accessing the water bottle without taking it off

[@wh17efox]

Thank you for this great and detailed review ❤

[@PackHacker2]

Thanks for watching! 😃 -Eric

[@jeffreyprinsen]

Great video!, 1 question tho is it waterproof or good against water?

[@noamanpatel3784]

Which brands are your shoe and clothes packs at the end?

[@boazsides]

Hi! what do you think about the change they did on the water bottle side pockets? they removed a very useful thing - the buckles on the side and replaced it with the bungee "ropes", any thoughts? this is my only dilemma, to buy the 2021 or 2020 version. I am using Borealis since 2016. thanks :)

[@ricardoberkhout]

I’ve bought the newest version and finally replaced it for the previous model because of the lack of these side buckles. I find it definitely not an improvement at all to replace these side buckles for an extended bungee cord (my umbrella and water bottle felt out sometimes). Hope they’ll step of this idea for future models. This model reviewed by Tom is the best model to go for in my opinion.

[@jazzman554]

Hey would you recommend this for hiking? Or is it more of a work/school bag? Thanks

[@cy6434]

best investment i had so far. i was sick of my school backpacks constantly breaking, but this will probably last me for a while :)

[@PackHacker2]

You’ll have to let us know how you like it! 😃 -Eric

[@mamaluigi1438]

How is it so far?

[@cy6434]

Its been pretty good tbh with you I still have it as of this day but I decided to change to another smaller one since it is a little bit bigger for my daily life. I did however was using this as a school bag which was really great lots of pockets!

[@mamaluigi1438]

@@cy6434 Great, thanks!

[@navid8276]

I love this backpack, except the cardboard insert in the back, can’t stand the pack up straight and I absolutely hate that

[@susancalongne7865]

Have you considered reviewing the north face overhaul 40 pack? I’d love the see what you think of it.

[@manchuk1d]

the bag is well built but it sucks lol, it's way to small i do not know why its big and wide on the bottom but gets slimmer as it comes to the top. Once you fill in the main compartment its hard to get stuff out/in into the second outer pocket and the sunglasses compartment.... once it's filled up the bag cant even stand on it own. Great design but to small.

[@cyberdockyard]

Dude, how did you hang your hiking poles, can you tell me

[@Dimmu666ist]

Any bigger version? This is too small for travel

[@hazreenaaidaillias2709]

Please make a review on north face crevasse daypack

[@Damian12312]

Great review!

[@wj9518]

Is it water resistance?

[@starfox-germany]

Which version is it please, sir? There are several out there and especially on Amazon. Ist this the Classic? Thanks a lot.

[@rosespotions]

Would it fit a 17in laptop? I know it would probably be tight

[@franciscolozano2901]

Watched a few 2021 updates, and I think I rather have the 2020 version from this video. Anyone have links to retailers trying to sell them out?

[@PackHacker2]

Hey Francisco! You can always check out the links in our review to see if they offer last year's model. I'll drop a link below. Thanks for the comment! - Austin packhacker.com/travel-gear/the-north-face/borealis-backpack/

[@abhishek7dbecks]

I wanted to love this bag so much - and I do for the most part - but the shoulder straps are just too uncomfortable IMO. I can’t wrap my head around why they went with the hard density straps instead of airy-cushiony ones.

[@PackHacker2]

We’re sorry to hear you don’t love the shoulder straps! We dug the flexibility they offer but understand that they aren’t for everyone. -Eric

[@Zaino.In.Spalla]

I love this Backpasck 😍

[@PackHacker2]

🤙🤙🤙

[@mrinalmukherjee7031]

Is it waterproof?

[@ShakKy33]

how many borealis backpacks are there

[@chrischris1232]

the hole on the side bag is to easily get to your mobile

[@isabella80808]

*Hi, Would like to request a review on the new 2021 TNF Borealis black backpack? Can the new one 2021 stand on its own and won't fall over even when stuffed and properly balance? How is the material on the 2021 (more like rain jacket nylon) than the thicker fabric nylon? Which is more prone to wrinkling? Which do you think is more durable? Which one is more water repellent? They also offer a black "Patch" Borealis that seems only available thru TNF online and TNF stores. Which one of the two, plain black or black with patch is more dope? Better yet, can you do a comparison between the Borealis and Surge? Borealis' bungee system vs Surge's two narrow front pockets? The interior, I would think, is a give or at least somewhat comparable from the ones I've seen in the past. Thank you! : )*

[@PackHacker2]

I'll pass along your suggestion to the team. Thanks for the comment! - Austin

[@isabella80808]

@@PackHacker2 *Awesome! There is/are no reviews on the new 2021 Borealis at all. Can it stand on its own (unlike previous ones), about the new material used? (does it get easily wrinkly?) quality? (did it change and need quality control e.g. overall stitching)....Thank you! : )*

[@johnnyguzman2519]

I’m planning on going to Europe next year , would this backpack be fine ?

[@carolinamariaconsonni9903]

Absolutely! Is one of the most used by the youth in north and also some of the Mediterranean Europe cause is amazing for university and also for weekend trips. You're gonna see a lot here! And is unbreakable and amazing for unsure climate. I can't regret getting it at all. 4 years full time all kind of situation usage

[@carolinamariaconsonni9903]

PS can't wait to see you here if you pass by Ireland or Germany 😊

[@clipside2]

Will it need an additional rain cover for bad weather days walking around, or will it be OK?

[@masumahmed6760]

I picked up one from Marshals today

[@user-gp5md9tb3w]

Which color if I may ask? 😁

[@masumahmed6760]

@@user-gp5md9tb3w gray/blue

[@greed7734]

Could you guys review the XD Design Urban Bumbag? Thanks if you do.

[@grayfox96]

I just bought one yesterday,3rd Sept,'22. I love all the details in this bag compared with jestorialis(cryptic) which I have here, too. I am just curious about that small strap attached to the computer compartment. Can you enlighten me, please?

[@hanshananigan1233]

Perhaps to hold a hydration bladder.

[@capybaraeslay7590]

Awesome video! Would like to know if a 16” inch laptop fit in the laptop compartment?

[@PackHacker2]

It can fit up to a 16” laptop! -Eric

[@blakehuddlestun707]

Whats your guys opinion on the alpha one niner 1.5 evade

[@rikkiragsdale8056]

Is it good for school?

[@jeshu8372]

excellent video, maybe the worst part of this bag is that can not be stay up. You should be hire by north face and help them to improve their products. Regards!

[@PackHacker2]

Thanks for your kind words, Jesus! 😃 -Eric

[@markkiesewetter3357]

Great review. I need a new bag for trip to Austria and Dolomites this fall and I think this is the one!

[@flti]

Cool video I might buy it

[@PackHacker2]

Thanks for the support 😃 -Eric

[@ayushpatel6148]

what are the bags in the background

[@alexjarboe1017]

Does this bag have the slit in the top to run the bladder hose out of?

[@PackHacker2]

Here’s a quote from the full review! “Also in this compartment is a velcro strap toward the top that you can use to attach a water bladder when you’re not keeping a laptop inside for that hands-free hydration while traveling.” More info: packhacker.com/travel-gear/the-north-face/borealis-backpack/ -Eric

[@nancywheeler8359]

Which one do you recommend, Swissgear or North face? I’m looking for one that will serve as a work and travel bag.

[@PackHacker2]

Hey Nancy! It sounds like a laptop bag might suite your needs. We have a guide on how to choose a laptop bag here: packhacker.com/guide/best-laptop-bag/ - Austin

[@Snnnn9]

Hey! Thank you for the review. You also did a review on the Osprey Radical. I’m in doubt between the two. Which one would you advise for a combo of day to day use and traveling . I’ve found the osprey in sale so the osprey would even be 15 bucks cheaper for me rn. Thanks!

[@williamching4214]

Does anyone know which colour is this model? looks great

[@PackHacker2]

Hey William! This is the Asphalt Grey/Silver Reflective colorway. 😊 - Rebecca

[@merry_cupcake3598]

Being 5’1 the bag sits pretty large on my back which is my only downside ://

[@filipedeataideramos]

They make a mini version now, check it. :)

[@deathward990]

Whats the difference between this and Surge. I have 17inch laptop that I carry for work. Which will be a best fit for daily use for office and casual weekend hikes (without laptop)

[@papediop9510]

If you have a 17 inch laptop get the surge. It has more storage compartments and a specialized computer section with 3 dividers

[@patmyway618]

Is this 2020 version?

[@filipedeataideramos]

2021. Always one year in advance, like clothing..

[@yuliusmotovlog3332]

Nice review

[@PackHacker2]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@zachkroupa]

Hey, quick question. Do you know where I could go to purchase this exact model? I can't seem to get my hands on one. I dislike the updated Borealis backpack compared to this version. Thanks!

[@PackHacker2]

Hi Zach! You might want to try the clearance sections of retailers sites. The older models typically get marked down but they tend to go fast. Good luck! - Austin

[@clipside2]

What's the difference in new versions?

[@uselesstrooper]

Hey there! I got the same one in the same colorway but something concerns me a lot, the backplate is curved a lot and presses against my lower back a lot. Any ideas? It is 100% authentic yet it was supplied this way.

[@redderm]

Pretty darn sure that's intentional. Keeps your back cooler and puts more weight on your hips.

[@uselesstrooper]

@@redderm feels relieving, appreciate it

[@asdf17969]

I think the side hole in the wb pocket is to pull a phone out of.

[@surajs5897]

Your watch😍

[@laurenceo1]

Hey, is this the asphalt grey/ silver reflective colorway?

[@PackHacker2]

Hey Laurence! Yep, we tested this pack in the Asphalt Grey/Silver Reflective colorway. - Rebecca

[@gabriellaredo]

Do you recommend this for 1 to 3 days of travel?

[@PackHacker2]

Depending on how you pack, it can definitely work for that! 😃 -Eric

[@gabriellaredo]

@@PackHacker2 Thank you sir :)

[@udinsalam4751]

One quick question. When you have laptop inside, did you feel it on your back? I've been trying several opsrey EDCs, but never like the feel on my back when I put my laptop in.

[@PackHacker2]

It does have some thick foam back padding so that will help keep some separation between you and your laptop. - Austin

[@udinsalam4751]

@@PackHacker2 Thanks Austin :)

[@RemixN007]

Can you fit a '15 laptop?

[@PackHacker2]

Hey RemixN007, this pack can accommodate up to a 15″ laptop in a protective case. You can find this info and more over in our full written review here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/the-north-face/borealis-backpack/ - Rebecca

[@RemixN007]

@@PackHacker2 Thank for the response. Great, I'll check it out.

[@Mvrderface]

3/5.

[@jarrodsalmons517]

what size laptop will this fit?

[@PackHacker2]

Hey Jarrod, The North Face Borealis Backpack can accommodate up to a 15″ laptop. You can find more info on this and more technical details about this pack over on the full written review here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/the-north-face/borealis-backpack/ - Rebecca

[@riccardochiac]

is this waterproof?

[@PackHacker2]

Hey Riccardo! The bag is not waterproof but some of the materials make it water resistant so it can hold up in light rain if needed. That said, you should be wary if you're carrying electronics or anything else that you can't afford to get wet. - Austin

[@dinizen]

budget? 100€ for backpack isnt budget for me..

[@arturogas]

Is this model waterproof???

[@PackHacker2]

Hey arturogas, this pack is not waterproof. However, you can find more info on the materials used on this pack in the full written review here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/the-north-face/borealis-backpack/ - Rebecca

[@filipedeataideramos]

They are weatherproof, not waterproof. But dry fast.

[@allnighterist]

This is $155 in my country

[@AlmostBipedal]

Hard to tell when it's not actually in front of you, but it looks cheap/weak.

[@123muhendislik7]

It unfortunatly is not bus proof. I have been using it for 3 years and if you have to hold on a handle that is at the ceiling of the bus your back is going to be demolished. That was my worst 30 minute ride.

[@keanuuchihasan]

That's not really a budget backpack, that's expensive bro.

[@PackHacker2]

True, Fabian! Budget when compared to other packs, though 😃 -Eric

[@dral22]

Yeah go ahead and ruin your clothes with that mesh system crap that pile your back all day long. FOAM is where it's at, this is why the Surge from NF will always be on top. Anything with mesh sucks

[@gecko7167]

If a backpack ruins your clothes then your shitty cheap clothing fabric is the problem, not the bag lmao

[@Tony_zr]

@@gecko7167 talk to them gecko