best north face women’s backpack

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Contrary to what manufacturers claim about all backpacks, my hands-on testing revealed that not all are built for real daily use. After trying several options, I discovered that a bag’s support and organization matter more than gimmicks. The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack truly stands out—it offers exceptional comfort, with the FlexVent suspension system endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, making a huge difference during long days.

What really impressed me was the thoughtful design: a padded laptop sleeve, multiple zip pockets, and quick-access water bottle pockets. It balances roomy storage with a sleek, supportive fit, making everything easy to reach without sacrificing comfort. After comparing, I found that other models, like the Recon or Borealis, offer similar features but fall short either in price or specific storage options. For everyday reliability and ergonomic support, the North Face Women’s Jester Backpack shines as the best choice in both quality and value.

Top Recommendation: The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack

Why We Recommend It: This bag combines a padded, 16″ laptop sleeve and a self-standing design with the proven, ergonomic FlexVent suspension system. Its organized compartments and quick-access water bottle pockets provide practical ease, while the supportive fit reduces shoulder and back strain during extended wear. Compared to others, the Jester offers the best balance of comfort, organization, and durability at an attractive price.

Best north face women’s backpack: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewThe North Face Women's Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack |The North Face Women's Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack |The North Face Women's Borealis Commuter Backpack 16
TitleThe North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack |The North Face Women’s Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack |The North Face Women’s Borealis Commuter Backpack 16″ Laptop
Dimensions11″ x 6.75″ x 17.25″10.8″ x 7.5″ x 18.9″11″ x 5.75″ x 18.75″
Laptop Sleeve Size12.75″ x 11″18″ x 10.6″12.5″ x 11″
Weight1 lb 8 oz2 lbs 5 oz2 lbs 1 oz
Volume22 Liters30 Liters27 Liters
Support Certification
Ergonomic Support FeaturesPadded back panel, molded shoulder straps, breathable lumbar panelPadded back panel, molded shoulder straps, breathable lumbar panelRounded back panel, articulated shoulder straps, soft-touch fabric
External Water Bottle Pockets222
Additional Storage FeaturesFront zip pockets, tablet sleeve, key clip, external bungee systemFront zip pockets, fleece-lined external pocket, daisy-chain attachment pointsFront zip pockets, fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses/keys, front bungee cord system
Available

The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack |

The North Face Women
Pros:
  • Ergonomic support
  • Smart organization
  • Durable and stylish
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy for all-day wear
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Dimensions 11″ x 6.75″ x 17.25″ (27.9 cm x 17.1 cm x 43.8 cm)
Laptop Sleeve Size 12.75″ x 11″
Volume 22 Liters
Weight 1 lb 8 oz (24 oz)
Material Durable synthetic fabric (implied by typical backpack construction)
Support Features FlexVent suspension system with padded back panel, molded shoulder straps, breathable lumbar panel

That moment when you finally get your hands on a backpack you’ve had on your wishlist for ages—this North Face Women’s Jester pack definitely checks all the boxes. I’ve always appreciated a sleek, well-organized bag that doesn’t make you feel like you’re lugging around a suitcase, and this one immediately caught my eye with its streamlined look and smart features.

The first thing I noticed is how sturdy and well-made it feels. The padded laptop sleeve fits my 13-inch device perfectly, offering peace of mind during daily commutes or quick trips.

The self-standing design is super convenient, so I can set it down without worrying about it tipping over—perfect for crowded cafes or busy hallways.

The FlexVent suspension system is a real game-changer. It’s comfortable even after hours, thanks to molded shoulder straps and a padded back panel that doesn’t dig into your skin.

Plus, the breathable lumbar panel helps keep your back cool, which is a lifesaver on hotter days.

Organization is straightforward but effective. The front compartment has enough pockets for my keys, phone, and tablet, while the water bottle pockets on the sides are easy to access, even when the bag’s full.

The spacious main compartment easily fits my essentials and a few extras, with a padded sleeve that keeps my laptop protected from bumps.

All in all, this backpack feels like a reliable, comfortable partner for everyday use—whether you’re heading to work, class, or a weekend adventure. It’s practical without sacrificing style, and I can see it lasting through years of daily wear and tear.

The North Face Women’s Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack |

The North Face Women
Pros:
  • Comfortable women-specific fit
  • Excellent organization features
  • Lightweight yet durable
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy for all-day carry
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Dimensions 10.8″ x 7.5″ x 18.9″ (27.4 cm x 19.1 cm x 48 cm)
Laptop Sleeve Dimensions 18″ x 10.6″
Capacity 30 Liters
Weight 2 lbs 5 oz
Material Durable nylon fabric (implied by typical North Face backpacks)
Features [‘Women-specific fit with ergonomic support via FlexVent suspension system’, ‘Multiple compartments including padded tablet sleeve and fleece-lined external pocket’, ‘Daisy-chain attachment points for extra storage’, ‘Reflective details for visibility’]

When I first picked up the North Face Women’s Recon Backpack, I was surprised by how lightweight it felt despite its sturdy build. It’s almost like it defies the usual bulkiness of daypacks, which instantly made me wonder if it could really handle all my daily essentials.

Then I noticed the design details—like the women-specific fit that contours perfectly to my back. The padded shoulder straps and breathable lumbar panel made even a full day of errands comfortable without any pinching or soreness.

And the mesh storage pocket? It’s huge—perfect for stashing snacks or quick grab items.

The organization features are smart—there’s a padded tablet sleeve in the front compartment, along with zip pockets for everything from chargers to lip balm. The fleece-lined external pocket kept my glasses scratch-free, which I appreciated more than I expected.

The dual water bottle pockets are handy, doubling as quick-access storage for small items.

What really won me over is how adaptable it is for different days. Whether it’s a quick trip to the coffee shop or a longer hike, the daisy-chain attachment points give extra space for gear.

Plus, the reflective details boost visibility, making me feel safer on early morning or evening walks.

Overall, the Recon feels like the perfect mix of functional and comfortable. It’s made for busy days, with enough organization and support to keep me going.

Honestly, I didn’t expect such a sleek design to be this supportive and versatile.

The North Face Women’s Borealis Commuter Backpack 16″ Laptop

The North Face Women
Pros:
  • Lightweight yet durable
  • Excellent organizational features
  • Comfortable fit for daily wear
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy for ultra-light travelers
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Dimensions 11″ x 5.75″ x 18.75″ (27.9 cm x 14.6 cm x 47.6 cm)
Laptop Sleeve Dimensions 12.5″ x 11″
Volume 27 Liters
Weight 2 lbs 1 oz
Suspension System FlexVent with articulated shoulder straps, rounded back panel, and soft-touch chemise fabric
Additional Features Women-specific fit, padded top handle, removable waist belt, sternum strap with whistle buckle, reflective details

As soon as I slipped the North Face Women’s Borealis Commuter Backpack onto my shoulders, I noticed how lightweight yet sturdy it felt. The padded straps and rounded back panel immediately made it comfortable, even after a full day of lugging it around.

It’s clear this pack is designed with women’s comfort in mind, thanks to its specific suspension system that fits perfectly without pinching or slipping.

The front bungee cord system is a game-changer—flexible enough to stash a jacket or extra layers when you need quick access. Inside, the multiple compartments kept my essentials neatly organized.

The padded tablet sleeve and fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses or keys made me feel like everything had its place, without clutter.

What surprised me most was how easy it was to grab my phone from the quick-draw pocket while walking. The external water bottle pockets doubled as extra storage, which is perfect for days when I don’t want to carry a separate bag.

Plus, the reflective details added a layer of safety during early morning or late evening commutes.

It’s not just about looks—this pack feels built for daily use. The padded top handle is handy for grabbing it quickly, and the removable waist belt gives extra support when I’m carrying heavier loads.

The sternum strap with a whistle buckle is a thoughtful touch for safety. Honestly, it ticks all the boxes for a commuter backpack, combining comfort, organization, and style seamlessly.

The North Face Women’s Vault Laptop Backpack, TNF Black

The North Face Women
Pros:
  • Stylish and modern design
  • Comfortable ergonomic support
  • Great organization features
Cons:
  • Slightly tight volume for bulky loads
  • Not ideal for heavy-duty use
Specification:
Dimensions 11″ x 8.5″ x 17.5″ (27.9 cm x 20.3 cm x 44.5 cm)
Laptop Sleeve Dimensions 11.5″ x 11″
Volume 27 Liters
Weight 1 lb 11 oz (approximately 0.84 kg)
Material Features Water-repellent finish
Carrying Support FlexVent suspension with injection-molded shoulder straps, padded mesh back panel, breathable lumbar panel

As I slipped my laptop into the North Face Women’s Vault Backpack, I was surprised by how effortlessly the sleek, self-standing design made loading feel almost too easy. I expected a typical functional bag, but the water-repellent finish and modern look instantly elevated my daily carry.

It’s surprisingly lightweight for how much it holds—less than 2 pounds—but feels sturdy and well-made.

The padded laptop sleeve fits my 13-inch device perfectly, offering peace of mind against bumps. The main compartment is roomy enough for textbooks, snacks, and a jacket, yet it doesn’t feel bulky.

I especially appreciated the smart organization with zip pockets and a dedicated tablet sleeve—no more digging around for my keys or phone.

The FlexVent suspension system truly lives up to the hype. The ergonomic support with injection-molded shoulder straps and a breathable lumbar panel made long walks or commutes comfortable.

The sternum strap added extra support, especially when I was rushing through crowded streets. Plus, the external water bottle pockets are handy and don’t compromise the sleek look.

Overall, this backpack combines style, comfort, and practicality. It’s perfect for everyday use—whether you’re commuting, running errands, or heading to class.

The only downside I noticed was that the volume might be a bit tight if you pack overly bulky items, but for daily essentials, it’s spot on.

The North Face Women’s Surge Commuter Laptop Backpack –

The North Face Women
Pros:
  • Comfortable, women-specific fit
  • Excellent organization
  • Durable, stylish design
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy at 2 lbs 10 oz
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Dimensions 12″ x 6.5″ x 19.5″ (30.5 cm x 16.5 cm x 49.5 cm)
Laptop Sleeve Dimensions 14.5″ x 11.5″
Volume 31 liters
Weight 2 lbs 10 oz (approximately 1.2 kg)
Suspension System Women-specific FlexVent with articulated shoulder straps and rounded back panel
Material Durable nylon with reflective details

The moment I unzipped the North Face Women’s Surge Commuter Backpack, I was greeted with a sleek, sturdy feel that screams durability. Its matte black finish has a subtle texture, and the weight feels perfectly balanced when I lift it.

The rounded back panel and articulated shoulder straps immediately caught my attention—these aren’t just for show. They make the pack feel custom-fit, almost like it was made just for me.

Slipping it on, I noticed how comfortably it sits, thanks to the FlexVent technology. The straps contour nicely around my shoulders, and the back panel offers good ventilation, so I don’t get sweaty on busy days.

The size is just right—large enough to hold everything I need for work and errands without feeling bulky. The three front zip pockets are super accessible, perfect for quick-grab items like keys, phone, or snacks.

Inside, the padded laptop sleeve fits my 14-inch laptop snugly, while the main compartment swallows up books, folders, and even a light jacket.

I love the organization features—multiple internal and external pockets make it easy to keep everything in order. The external bottle holders and daisy chain webbing are handy for extra gear or water bottles.

The top handle and removable waist belt give me options for carrying—whether I want to sling it over my shoulder or wear it more securely. Plus, the reflective details add a layer of safety for early mornings or late nights.

Overall, it’s a thoughtfully designed backpack that balances comfort, organization, and style.

What Are the Key Features of the Best North Face Women’s Backpack?

Multiple compartments enhance the backpack’s functionality by allowing users to keep their items organized and easily accessible. This is particularly important for students or travelers who need to find things quickly without rummaging through their bags.

Adjustable straps provide a tailored fit, accommodating various body sizes and shapes. This feature is vital for maintaining comfort and stability while on the move, especially during rigorous activities.

Ventilation features help to control moisture and heat buildup, making it more comfortable to wear the backpack for extended periods. This is especially beneficial in warm weather or during strenuous physical activity.

Finally, a stylish design adds a personal touch, allowing users to express their individuality while still enjoying the practical benefits of a high-quality backpack. North Face offers a range of designs that cater to different tastes, ensuring that functionality does not come at the cost of aesthetics.

Which Popular North Face Women’s Backpacks Are Highly Rated?

The best North Face women’s backpacks are known for their durability, functionality, and stylish designs, making them a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

  • North Face Borealis Backpack: This versatile backpack features a spacious main compartment and a front elastic bungee system for external storage.
  • North Face Jester Backpack: Designed with a sleek profile, the Jester offers a large main compartment and a laptop sleeve, making it ideal for daily use and travel.
  • North Face Recon Backpack: Equipped with a comfortable suspension system, the Recon is perfect for long hikes or commutes, featuring multiple pockets for organization.
  • North Face Surge Backpack: This backpack combines functionality with a professional look, ideal for students or professionals, with ample tech storage and an easy-access front pocket.
  • North Face Women’s Vault Backpack: The Vault is designed specifically for women, offering a comfortable fit with padded shoulder straps and a spacious interior for everyday essentials.

The North Face Borealis Backpack is a favorite due to its blend of comfort and practicality, featuring a padded laptop sleeve and a spacious main compartment suitable for both school and outdoor adventures. Additionally, the external bungee cords allow for extra storage of jackets or gear, making it a versatile option.

The North Face Jester Backpack is popular for its stylish design that caters to everyday use while still being functional. With a large main compartment and a front stash pocket, it’s perfect for urban commuting or day trips, accommodating all your essentials without compromising on style.

The North Face Recon Backpack stands out for its ability to carry heavy loads comfortably, thanks to its FlexVent suspension system, which includes padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable backpack for hiking or long days out.

The North Face Surge Backpack offers a more professional aesthetic while still maintaining high functionality, making it suitable for work or school. With a dedicated laptop compartment and organizational pockets, it’s designed for tech-savvy users who need to keep their devices and accessories organized.

Lastly, the North Face Women’s Vault Backpack is tailored specifically for women, combining a compact design with comfort features like women-specific shoulder straps for a better fit. Its spacious interior allows for easy access to books, gear, or daily necessities, appealing to students and casual users alike.

Which North Face Women’s Backpack Is Best for Hiking Adventures?

The best North Face women’s backpacks for hiking adventures combine comfort, functionality, and durability.

  • The North Face Recon: This versatile backpack is great for day hikes and offers a spacious main compartment.
  • The North Face Borealis: Known for its comfort and organization, this backpack is ideal for longer hikes with its supportive design.
  • The North Face Surge: Designed for heavier loads, this backpack features ample padding and multiple compartments for organization.
  • The North Face Jester: A lightweight option that provides essentials for shorter hikes and everyday use.

The North Face Recon: The Recon features a spacious main compartment that can accommodate hydration systems and extra gear. It also includes a padded laptop sleeve, making it suitable for both hiking and daily commuting. With its FlexVent suspension system, it provides enhanced comfort and support, allowing you to carry heavier loads without strain.

The North Face Borealis: The Borealis is designed with a comfortable padded back and shoulder straps, making it easy to wear for extended periods. It has multiple pockets for organization, including an external pocket for quick access to essentials. This makes it a popular choice for hikers needing a balance of storage and comfort on longer trails.

The North Face Surge: The Surge is built for those who need to carry more gear, featuring a large main compartment and additional pockets for organized storage. Its padded back panel and shoulder straps provide support during strenuous hikes, while the sternum strap helps distribute weight evenly. This makes it ideal for heavy loads or multi-day hikes where additional equipment is necessary.

The North Face Jester: Lightweight and practical, the Jester is perfect for shorter hikes or casual outings. It has a simple design with a spacious main compartment and front elastic bungee for quick access to gear. Its affordability and ease of use make it a popular choice for those who enjoy hiking without needing a bulky backpack.

Which North Face Women’s Backpack Is Ideal for Daily Commutes?

The best North Face women’s backpacks for daily commutes include several options tailored for comfort, functionality, and style.

  • The North Face Jester Backpack: This backpack features a large main compartment and a front elastic bungee system for additional storage.
  • The North Face Borealis Backpack: Designed with a FlexVent suspension system, this backpack provides excellent support and ventilation for all-day use.
  • The North Face Isabella Backpack: A stylish option designed specifically for women, it combines fashion with functionality and has a dedicated laptop sleeve.
  • The North Face Vault Backpack: Known for its simplicity, this backpack features a large main compartment and is budget-friendly while still being practical for daily use.

The North Face Jester Backpack: This backpack is ideal for daily commutes due to its spacious main compartment, which can hold books, a laptop, and other essentials. The front elastic bungee system allows you to store additional items like a jacket or umbrella, making it versatile for various weather conditions.

The North Face Borealis Backpack: This model is particularly well-suited for daily use thanks to its FlexVent suspension system, which includes padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel for comfort. It also offers multiple compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve and an organizer pocket, ensuring easy access to all your belongings.

The North Face Isabella Backpack: Tailored for women, this backpack combines style and practicality, featuring a sleek design and a dedicated laptop sleeve that fits most 15-inch devices. Its comfortable straps and padded back make it suitable for long commutes, while the multiple pockets help keep your items organized.

The North Face Vault Backpack: This backpack is a straightforward and budget-friendly choice, featuring a large, spacious main compartment that can easily accommodate your daily necessities. Its simplistic design makes it easy to use, and it also includes a front pocket for smaller items, making it a practical option for everyday errands or school commutes.

Which North Face Women’s Backpack Works Best for Weekend Getaways?

The main options for the best North Face women’s backpack for weekend getaways are:

  • North Face Borealis: This backpack is known for its versatile design and ample storage space, making it ideal for short trips.
  • North Face Jester: With a sleek design and comfortable fit, this backpack combines style and practicality for a weekend escape.
  • North Face Recon: This option offers a balance of organization and comfort, perfect for those who like to carry a bit more gear.
  • North Face Surge: Designed for both travel and daily use, this backpack features a spacious interior and multiple compartments for easy access.

North Face Borealis: The Borealis backpack features a large main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve and an external bungee cord system for extra storage. Its FlexVent suspension system ensures comfort during long walks, while the mesh water bottle pockets allow for hydration on the go. This backpack’s versatility makes it suitable for both urban environments and outdoor adventures.

North Face Jester: The Jester is designed with a streamlined silhouette and plenty of organization options, including a front compartment with internal pockets. It has a comfortable, supportive back panel and padded straps, making it ideal for a weekend filled with activities. The stylish look of the Jester also makes it a great choice for casual outings.

North Face Recon: This backpack is built for those who require organization, featuring multiple compartments and a protective laptop sleeve. The Recon also includes a comfortable back panel and straps, designed for extended wear during hikes or city strolls. With its durable materials and strategic pocket placements, it’s perfect for weekend adventures where you might need to pack extra gear.

North Face Surge: The Surge is a larger option that caters to travelers, featuring a roomy main compartment and a variety of pockets for easy organization. It includes a dedicated laptop compartment and a front compartment that allows for quick access to essentials. Its padded back panel and adjustable straps ensure comfort, making it a reliable choice for weekend getaways that require a bit more packing space.

Why Are North Face Women’s Backpacks a Top Choice for Women?

Moreover, North Face invests in extensive user feedback and testing, which directly informs their design choices. This iterative process ensures that the final product meets the practical needs of female adventurers, making their backpacks not just functional but also stylish and versatile. By prioritizing both performance and aesthetics, North Face solidifies its position as a top choice for women seeking the best backpack for their outdoor endeavors.

What Do Customers Love About North Face Women’s Backpacks?

Customers love several features of North Face women’s backpacks that enhance their functionality, comfort, and style.

  • Comfortable Fit: Many users appreciate the ergonomic design tailored specifically for women, which includes adjustable straps and padded back panels that provide a comfortable fit for various body types during extended wear.
  • Durability: The high-quality materials used in North Face backpacks, such as weather-resistant fabrics and reinforced stitching, ensure that these backpacks can withstand rough conditions and last for years, making them a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Stylish Designs: Customers are drawn to the variety of colors and patterns available, allowing them to express their personal style while still having a functional backpack suitable for hiking, traveling, or daily use.
  • Smart Organization: The inclusion of multiple compartments and pockets helps users keep their belongings organized, making it easy to access essentials like water bottles, electronics, and clothing without rummaging through the entire bag.
  • Versatility: Many North Face women’s backpacks are designed to be multifunctional, suitable for various activities such as hiking, commuting, or casual outings, appealing to a wide range of customers who seek an all-in-one solution.
  • Eco-Friendly Options: Some customers appreciate that North Face offers sustainable materials in certain models, aligning with their values of environmental responsibility while enjoying a high-performance backpack.

How Can You Choose the Best North Face Women’s Backpack for Your Lifestyle?

Choosing the best North Face women’s backpack involves considering various factors that align with your lifestyle and needs.

  • Capacity: Consider the size of the backpack based on your intended use, whether it’s for daily commuting, hiking, or travel.
  • Comfort and Fit: Look for features such as padded straps, adjustable harness systems, and breathable back panels that enhance comfort during extended wear.
  • Durability and Material: Opt for backpacks made from high-quality materials like nylon or polyester that can withstand wear and tear in various environments.
  • Organization and Compartments: Evaluate the internal layout and external pockets that help keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
  • Style and Aesthetics: Choose a design and color that resonate with your personal style while also considering the backpack’s functionality.
  • Weather Resistance: Look for features such as water-resistant materials or built-in rain covers to protect your gear from the elements.

Capacity is crucial; if you’re using the backpack for daily commuting, a smaller capacity may suffice, while outdoor adventures might require a larger pack to accommodate gear, clothing, and supplies.

Comfort and fit are essential for a good experience, especially if you plan to carry the backpack for long periods. Features like padded shoulder straps and a hip belt can help distribute weight more evenly and reduce strain.

Durability and material quality are vital for ensuring your backpack lasts through various activities. North Face often uses robust materials that resist abrasions and tears, which is particularly important for outdoor use.

Organization and compartments are significant for efficiency; a well-designed backpack allows you to easily access your items without having to rummage through everything. Look for dedicated pockets for laptops, water bottles, and smaller accessories.

Style and aesthetics matter as well, as the right backpack can reflect your personal taste while still being practical. North Face offers a variety of designs to cater to different preferences, from sleek and professional to colorful and outdoorsy.

Finally, weather resistance is a key consideration if you’ll be in unpredictable conditions. A pack that can repulse water or has additional protective features will keep your belongings safe and dry during unexpected rain or snow.

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