North Face Recon vs Borealis – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

North Face Recon & Borealis share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, & design. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the North Face Recon rather than the North Face Borealis. 

Why Do I Recommend The North Face Recon

  • The Recon uses more robust 400D nylon to enhance durability for urban environments, while the Borealis employs a lighter 210D mini-ripstop nylon.
  • It has a larger optimized compartment for carrying bulkier items, while the Borealis focuses more on organization with smaller sections.
  • The Recon has 30L capacity to carry more without additional weight compared to the Borealis’s 28L capacity.
  • It has a sleek, professional appearance suitable for school or work, while The Borealis has a rugged, adventurous look.
  • Recon’s straps are quite impressive and easily fit with the body for more comfort. On the other hand, Borealis’ straps are not that good. 

Maybe the North Face Borealis price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the North Face Recon. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureNorth Face ReconNorth Face Borealis
Main CompartmentLarger, bulkier items spaceSmaller, organizational focus
Shoulder StrapsExtra padded FlexVent systemStandard FlexVent system
Front CompartmentEnhanced organization with pen slotsBasic organization
Water Bottle PocketsLarger stretch mesh pocketsSmaller stretch mesh pockets
Materials400D nylon with DWR coating210D mini-ripstop nylon with DWR
DesignSleek and professional lookRugged and outdoorsy design
Intended UseCommuting, school, workHiking, outdoor activities
Weight2 lbs (0.91 kg)2 lbs 11 oz (1.23 kg)
Capacity30 liters28 liters
PriceCheck Recon PriceCheck Borealis Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Laptop Compartment: Both backpacks have padded laptop compartments that fit up to 15-inch laptops, providing excellent protection for electronic devices, making them suitable for work, school, or outdoor use.
  • FlexVent Suspension System: The ergonomic, ventilated, and padded suspension system in both models ensures comfort, even when carrying heavy loads, by evenly distributing weight and reducing strain on shoulders and back.
  • Durable Water-Repellent Coating (DWR): Both are equipped with DWR coatings that provide resistance against light rain and moisture, keeping contents dry during unpredictable weather.
  • Two External Water Bottle Pockets: Stretch mesh water bottle pockets on both sides of the backpacks allow for easy access to hydration on the go, whether on a hike or during a commute.
  • Front Elastic Stash Pocket: Both backpacks include a front stash pocket with elastic, ideal for quickly storing items like jackets, gloves, or small accessories without opening the main compartment.
  • Adjustable Sternum Strap: The sternum strap on both models enhances stability, ensuring that the backpack stays secure and comfortable during movement, whether walking, hiking, or biking.
  • Removable Waist Belt: A removable waist belt is included in both designs for added support, particularly helpful when carrying heavy loads over long distances.
  • Top Grab Handle: Both backpacks feature a reinforced and padded grab handle at the top, making them easy to carry by hand when needed.
  • Compatibility with Hydration Bladders: Both are compatible with hydration systems, catering to outdoor enthusiasts who require convenient access to water during activities like hiking or cycling.
  • Multiple Color Options: Both backpacks are available in a range of colors, allowing users to select a style that matches their preferences or needs.

Common Features

FeatureNorth Face ReconNorth Face Borealis
Laptop CompartmentPadded compartmentPadded compartment
FlexVent Suspension SystemErgonomicErgonomic
DWRYesYes
Two External Water Bottle PocketsStretch meshStretch mesh
Front Elastic Stash PocketIncludedIncluded
Adjustable Sternum StrapYes, for added stabilityYes, for added stability
Removable Waist BeltYesYes
Top Grab HandleReinforced and paddedReinforced and padded
Compatibility with Hydration BladdersCompatibleCompatible
Multiple Color OptionsAvailableAvailable
Price Check Recon Price Check Borealis Price

FAQ

Q: Are both backpacks suitable for laptops?
A: Yes, both the Recon and Borealis have padded laptop compartments that fit up to 15-inch laptops, providing excellent protection for work or school use.

Q: Which backpack is better for hiking?
A: The Borealis is better suited for hiking due to its external bungee system for securing extra gear, rugged design, and slightly more compact organization for outdoor essentials.

Q: Is there a difference in the shoulder straps?
A: Both backpacks use the FlexVent suspension system, but the Recon features slightly more padded shoulder straps, providing enhanced comfort for longer usage or heavier loads.

Q: Are these backpacks water-resistant?
A: Both the Recon and Borealis feature a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating, making them resistant to light rain and splashes. However, they are not fully waterproof and should not be submerged in water.

Q: Do both backpacks have the same organizational features?
A: No, the Recon has a more detailed organizational compartment with pen slots, a tablet sleeve, and zippered pockets, making it ideal for urban or academic use. The Borealis has a simpler organizational setup with fewer compartments but includes an external bungee system for versatility.

Q: Can both backpacks hold hydration bladders?
A: Yes, both backpacks are compatible with hydration systems, which makes them suitable for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling.

Q: Which backpack is more durable?
A: The Recon is made of 400D nylon, which is slightly more durable than the 210D mini-ripstop nylon used in the Borealis. This makes the Recon better suited for heavier daily use, while the Borealis offers lightweight durability for outdoor activities.

Q: Are these backpacks available in multiple colors?
A: Yes, both the Recon and Borealis are available in a variety of colors, allowing users to choose the style that best fits their preferences.

Q: Which backpack is better for everyday use?
A: The Recon is generally better for everyday use, commuting, or school due to its larger capacity, more professional design, and enhanced organization. The Borealis, on the other hand, is ideal for those who prioritize outdoor activities or need a more rugged backpack.

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