Sometimes telling the differences between two or three backpacks of the same brand is quite difficult. One such example is the North Face Recon vs. Borealis vs. North Face Jester.
These are versatile bags that combine both a daypack quality and backpack durability. But what is the best option for you? Let’s find out!
 The North Face Recon |  The North Face Borealis |  The North Face Jester |
|---|
Contents
North Face Recon vs. Borealis vs. North Face Jester – First Comparison
North Face Recon vs. Borealis
1 Quick Rundown of the North Face Recon Backpack - North Face Recon Review
The North Face Recon Backpack is crafted to keep your gear well-organized while you’re busy navigating. The capacity this daypack offers is 31 liters. It features an excellent suspension mechanism.
As for sleeves, there’s a tablet, laptop, and hydration sleeve. Combine these with some useful pockets. And you’ve got your hands on an incredibly flexible and practical bag.
Here’s a list of the main features of the North Face Recon:
It’s an ideal backpack for all types of activities or sports.
2 Quick Rundown of the North Face Borealis Backpack - North Face Borealis Review
The North Face Borealis Backpack is the solution you demand when in a hurry. Packing quickly so you can get out quickly to do all the exploring you like. The backpack capacity is 28 liters. It offers tons of hip belt and shoulder support. With enough room for your precious electronics.
What’s unique about North Face Borealis is its flexible and practical bungee cord equipped front panel. Plus, the stretchy pockets for water bottle are also a part of this versatile backpack.
Here’s a list of the main features of the North Face Borealis:
It’s a very sporty looking daypack perfect for any setting.
NEVER STOP EXPLORING: Carousel
North Face Recon vs. Borealis – Notable Differences
Now it’s time to discuss the North Face Recon vs. Borealis comparison. In this section, I’m only going to talk about the differences between the two I think you might want to know.
Weight and Size
The North Face Recon Backpack is lighter than its Borealis counterpart. In fact, the former has comparatively smaller dimensions too. On top of that, it holds more (31 liters).
As for the Borealis capacity, it’s 28 liters. Not much of a difference I know. But it’s worth mentioning, isn’t it?
Bungee System
You already know that the North Face Borealis features an elastic equipped bungee system. Unfortunately, it’s a feature that the Recon backpack lacks.
What the front bungee cord strap system does is act as a very useful pocket alternative. So you can store your small items or hang your trekking poles.
Front Pocket
The North Face Recon Backpack also includes a very practical front pocket. This extra room is easily accessible. And that eliminates the need to open your backpack for grabbing smaller items. You’ll appreciate it the most if you’re a hiker.
North Face Recon vs. Borealis – So what’s the Verdict?
The North Face Recon | The North Face Borealis |
|---|---|
North Face Recon Backpack | North Face Borealis Backpack | |
|---|---|---|
Weight | Little more than 2 pounds | Over 2 pounds |
Volume | 31 liters | 28 liters |
Dimensions | 19.2 inches x 14 inches x 9.5 inches | 19.7 inches x 13.5 inches x 98.5 |
Material | Nylon | Nylon |
Laptop Sleeve | 15-inch | 15-inch |
Waist Belt | Yes (removable) | Yes (removable) |
Compression Straps | Yes | Yes |
Bungee System | No | Yes |
In the end, I would only like to state one simple truth.
- 1Go for the Recon if you want a multi-day, more versatile backpack.
- 2Go for the Borealis if you value durability above all else.
North Face Recon vs. Borealis vs. North Face Jester – Second Comparison
North Face Jester vs. Borealis
I have already discussed the design and features of the North Face Borealis Backpack. So let’s get to know what lies on the other side of the coin here.
3 Quick Rundown of the North Face Unisex Jester Backpack - North Face Jester Review
The North Face Jester Backpack is nothing but an improvement. It’s got a redesigned suspension system, which is better by the way. Along with more comfortable and more breathable shoulder and back straps.
The capacity, in this case, is 26 liters. Even so, the backpack has enough room to pack quite a bit of your gear.
Here’s a list of the main features of the North Face Jester:
It’s the most suitable backpack for travel, commute, and shorter hikes.
The North Face: Jester II Backpack
North Face Jester vs. Borealis – Notable Differences
Here are the features of the two backpacks that aren’t similar.
Both the models are generally lightweight and compact. But there is one that’s slightly heavier and bigger. And it’s the North Face Borealis.
So if you prefer lighter and more compact backpacks, pick the Jester. But are you okay with this backpack’s smaller storage capacity (26 liters)? For daily commuting, such a small volume is more than enough.
However, for extra space, the 28 liters of the Borealis is a better choice. It seems like a more suitable option for short trips.
The North Face Borealis is built using highly durable nylon. As for the North Face Jester, high-quality polyester is used. The former is more likely to withstand heavy load or abuse. And the latter offers better abrasion-resistance and quick-drying properties.
Plus, it doesn’t even stretch, shrink, or wrinkle that quickly. This means easier maintenance.
The Borealis backpack has a 12-inch laptop sleeve. And the Jester backpack features a 15-inch laptop sleeve. But you can fit a 15-inch laptop in the former though, no doubt.
The smaller size is very helpful when it comes to securing the laptop in place. This means you can move as fast as you like. And not worry about it bumping around inside the bag.
About the tablet sleeve, the North Face Borealis offers fleece lining. Meaning the backpack’s tablet sleeve protects your delicate items. Even the external pockets are fleece-lined. Fleece lining keeps your precious belongings from getting scratched. Don’t expect this from the Jester backpack.
There are no compression straps and waist belt in the North Face Jester Backpack.
Compression straps keep all the gear in place at times when the bag isn’t fully loaded. In short, they bring about more stability. As for the waist belt, it helps in evenly distributing the backpack load. And this comes in handy when you’re loaded.
So you’ll be relieved to know that at least one option is outfitted with both the features. And that fantastic option is the North Face Borealis.
North Face Jester vs. Borealis – So what’s the Verdict?
The North Face Jester | The North Face Borealis |
|---|---|
North Face Unisex Jester Backpack | North Face Borealis Backpack | |
|---|---|---|
Weight | Roughly 2 pounds | Over 2 pounds |
Volume | 26 liters | 28 liters |
Dimensions | 19.7 inches x 13.2 inches x 7.5 inches | 19.7 inches x 13.5 inches x 98.5 |
Material | Polyester | Nylon |
Laptop Sleeve | 12-inch | 15-inch |
Waist Belt | No | Yes (removable) |
Compression Straps | No | Yes |
Bungee System | Yes | Yes |
The decision is quite simple if you ask me.
Choose the Borealis for more space, durability, stability, and protection. So it’s very obvious that the Jester is an inferior pick in this case. The former is a clear winner in the debate between North Face Jester vs. Borealis.
Conclusion
This brings me to the end of the North Face Recon vs. Borealis vs. North Face Jester comparison.
I have discussed every important detail of each backpack. Once you go through the article thoroughly, all confusion will be out the window. So are you ready to make your final decision now?
Let me know what you decide. The comments section is right below.
Related Tips and Tricks from SheLovesBest Lists:
1. Deuter vs. Osprey Aether vs. Atmos (What Is The Best Backpack?)
