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
Feature | North Face Recon | North Face Borealis |
Main Compartment | Larger, bulkier items space | Smaller, organizational focus |
Shoulder Straps | Extra padded FlexVent system | Standard FlexVent system |
Front Compartment | Enhanced organization with pen slots | Basic organization |
Water Bottle Pockets | Larger stretch mesh pockets | Smaller stretch mesh pockets |
Materials | 400D nylon with DWR coating | 210D mini-ripstop nylon with DWR |
Design | Sleek and professional look | Rugged and outdoorsy design |
Intended Use | Commuting, school, work | Hiking, outdoor activities |
Weight | 2 lbs (0.91 kg) | 2 lbs 11 oz (1.23 kg) |
Capacity | 30 liters | 28 liters |
Price | Check Recon Price | Check 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
Feature | North Face Recon | North Face Borealis |
Laptop Compartment | Padded compartment | Padded compartment |
FlexVent Suspension System | Ergonomic | Ergonomic |
DWR | Yes | Yes |
Two External Water Bottle Pockets | Stretch mesh | Stretch mesh |
Front Elastic Stash Pocket | Included | Included |
Adjustable Sternum Strap | Yes, for added stability | Yes, for added stability |
Removable Waist Belt | Yes | Yes |
Top Grab Handle | Reinforced and padded | Reinforced and padded |
Compatibility with Hydration Bladders | Compatible | Compatible |
Multiple Color Options | Available | Available |
Price | Check Recon Price | Check Borealis Price |
FAQ
Q: Are both backpacks suitable for laptops? Q: Which backpack is better for hiking? Q: Is there a difference in the shoulder straps? Q: Are these backpacks water-resistant? Q: Do both backpacks have the same organizational features? Q: Can both backpacks hold hydration bladders? Q: Which backpack is more durable? Q: Are these backpacks available in multiple colors? Q: Which backpack is better for everyday use? |