By Administrator For years, the name “The North Face Borealis laptop backpack” has been synonymous with reliable, versatile, and downright ubiquitous everyday carry. From bustling college campuses to crowded city streets, the Borealis has been the trusted companion of countless students, commuters, and adventurers. But in a market saturated with competitors, does the Borealis still deserve its crown as the king of everyday backpacks? In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into its features, benefits, drawbacks, and ultimately, determine if the North Face Borealis laptop backpack is still the right choice for you.
The North Face Borealis is more than just a bag; it’s a statement. A statement of practicality, durability, and a commitment to getting the job done. This is a backpack designed to handle the daily grind, whether you’re hauling textbooks, tech gear, or hiking essentials. We will explore what makes this backpack a favorite among a wide range of users.
A Deep Dive into the Borealis’ Key Features
The devil is in the details, and the North Face Borealis laptop backpack boasts a multitude of well-thought-out features that contribute to its overall appeal. Understanding these features is key to appreciating the backpack’s functionality.
Dimensions, Capacity, and Material Matters
Let’s start with the basics. The Borealis typically offers a capacity of around twenty-eight liters, providing ample space for daily necessities. This volume strikes a nice balance – large enough to accommodate a substantial load, yet compact enough to remain manageable for everyday carry. The dimensions usually hover around nineteen inches in height, thirteen inches in width, and nine inches in depth, making it suitable for most overhead compartments on airplanes and fitting comfortably under seats.
Constructed from durable polyester and nylon materials, the Borealis is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. While not fully waterproof, its water-resistant properties provide a decent level of protection against light rain and splashes. The exact composition of the materials may vary slightly depending on the model year, but the emphasis on durability remains consistent. The North Face consistently offers a wide array of colors, from classic black and grey to vibrant blues, reds, and greens, allowing users to express their personal style.
The Core: Laptop Protection and Accessibility
The laptop compartment is, of course, a critical feature for many potential buyers. The Borealis boasts a dedicated, padded laptop sleeve designed to accommodate most fifteen-inch laptops comfortably. Some newer models might even fit slightly larger laptops. The padding provides a crucial buffer against bumps and shocks, safeguarding your valuable technology. Accessibility is also a key consideration. The laptop compartment is usually situated close to the back panel, making it easy to slide your laptop in and out without having to rummage through the entire contents of the bag.
Organization: Pockets and Compartments Galore
Beyond the laptop compartment, the North Face Borealis laptop backpack shines in its organizational capabilities. The main compartment is spacious and can easily hold books, binders, clothing, or other larger items. A front organizational panel provides a dedicated space for smaller essentials such as pens, pencils, keys, and your phone. Often there’s a secure key clip to prevent you from losing your keys.
Side water bottle pockets, typically made from stretchable mesh, are a must-have for staying hydrated on the go. These pockets are usually large enough to accommodate a wide range of water bottle sizes. Some models also feature a fleece-lined pocket, perfect for storing sunglasses, phones, or other delicate items that you want to protect from scratches. Hidden or less obvious pockets might also be included for discreetly storing valuables.
Comfort: The Suspension System is Key
The North Face understands that comfort is paramount, especially when carrying a heavy load. The Borealis features a well-designed suspension system aimed at distributing weight evenly and minimizing strain on your back and shoulders. The shoulder straps are usually padded and ergonomically shaped to conform to the contours of your body.
The back panel often incorporates The North Face’s FlexVent suspension system, which utilizes padded mesh and a spine channel to promote airflow and reduce sweating. This is particularly beneficial during warmer weather or strenuous activities. A sternum strap helps to further stabilize the load and prevent the shoulder straps from slipping. Some models may include a removable waist belt, providing additional support for heavier loads.
Additional Features Worth Noting
Beyond the core features, the North Face Borealis laptop backpack often includes a range of extras that enhance its functionality. Reflective elements are strategically placed to improve visibility in low-light conditions, a crucial safety feature for cyclists and pedestrians. Daisy chain webbing allows you to attach extra gear, such as trekking poles or carabiners, to the exterior of the bag. A top grab handle provides a convenient carrying option when you don’t want to wear the backpack. The sternum strap buckle sometimes incorporates a built-in whistle, a potentially life-saving feature in emergency situations.
The Benefits and Advantages of Choosing the Borealis
The North Face Borealis laptop backpack is not just a collection of features; it’s a carefully engineered tool designed to make your life easier and more comfortable.
Built to Last: Durability and Quality
The Borealis’ reputation for durability is well-earned. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the daily wear and tear of commuting, traveling, and outdoor adventures. Reinforced stitching and durable zippers contribute to its long-lasting performance. This is a backpack that you can rely on for years to come.
All-Day Comfort: Ergonomics in Action
The comfortable suspension system makes the Borealis a joy to wear, even when fully loaded. The padded shoulder straps, breathable back panel, and adjustable sternum strap work together to distribute weight effectively and minimize strain. You can comfortably carry your essentials for extended periods without experiencing discomfort.
Stay Organized: Storage Solutions
The Borealis excels at keeping your belongings organized. The various pockets and compartments provide dedicated spaces for everything from laptops and books to pens and water bottles. You can easily find what you need without having to rummage through a cluttered mess.
One Bag, Many Uses: Versatility Defined
The Borealis is a truly versatile backpack that can adapt to a wide range of activities. It’s equally at home on a college campus, in a corporate office, or on a hiking trail. Its combination of durability, comfort, and organizational features makes it a great choice for students, commuters, travelers, and casual hikers.
Bang for Your Buck: Value Proposition
While not the cheapest backpack on the market, the North Face Borealis laptop backpack offers excellent value for money. Its combination of durability, comfort, organization, and versatility makes it a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in the long run.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
No product is perfect, and the North Face Borealis laptop backpack has a few potential drawbacks that are worth considering.
Weight Considerations when Fully Loaded
While the Borealis is comfortable to wear, it can become quite heavy when fully loaded with books, a laptop, and other gear. This is a common issue with most backpacks, but it’s something to be mindful of if you tend to carry a lot of weight.
Size Matters: Is it Too Bulky?
The Borealis’ twenty-eight-liter capacity might be too large for some users, particularly those who prefer a more minimalist backpack. Its bulkier size may not be ideal for crowded commutes or tight spaces.
Water Resistance Limitations
While water-resistant, the Borealis is not fully waterproof. In heavy rain, your belongings may get wet. You might consider purchasing a separate rain cover for added protection in wet weather.
Not Designed for Extreme Use
While versatile, the Borealis is not designed for serious backpacking or other demanding outdoor activities. It lacks the specialized features and robust construction of dedicated backpacking packs.
Who Should Consider the North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack?
The North Face Borealis laptop backpack is a great choice for a wide range of users, but it’s particularly well-suited for:
The Everyday Student
Ideal for carrying textbooks, notebooks, laptops, and other essential school supplies. The organizational features help students stay organized and prepared for classes.
The Modern Commuter
A perfect companion for transporting laptops, documents, and other work essentials to and from the office. The comfortable suspension system makes commuting a breeze.
The Savvy Traveler
Suitable as a carry-on bag for short trips, providing ample space for clothing, toiletries, and electronic devices.
The Casual Hiker
A good option for day hikes or light outdoor adventures, offering enough space for water bottles, snacks, and extra layers of clothing.
Anyone Seeking a Reliable Everyday Backpack
If you’re looking for a durable, comfortable, and versatile backpack that can handle the demands of daily life, the North Face Borealis is an excellent choice.
Concluding Thoughts: Is the Borealis Still Worth It?
The North Face Borealis laptop backpack has earned its reputation as a reliable and versatile everyday backpack. Its combination of durability, comfort, organization, and versatility makes it a great choice for students, commuters, travelers, and casual hikers. While it has a few potential drawbacks, such as its weight when fully loaded and its limited water resistance, its overall performance and value are undeniable. Despite increased competition, The North Face Borealis laptop backpack continues to be a top contender in the crowded backpack market. If you’re looking for a durable and functional everyday backpack, the North Face Borealis is definitely worth considering. You can check the current price and availability on major online retailers and The North Face’s official website.
