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The North Face
Borealis 28L Backpack

4.666666666666667 out of 5 stars
1839 Reviews
$99.00
Color:Asphalt Grey Light Heather/TNF Black-NPF

Size:

Size Chart

Quantity


Why We Like The Borealis 28L Backpack

Whether we’re headed to class or a coffee shop, we count on the Borealis Backpack from the North Face to store all of our study session supplies without compromising comfort. The American Chiropractic Association recommends this bag because of its supportive articulated shoulder straps, rounded back panel, and soft-to-the-touch fabric.


Details

  • Everyday backpack for urban outings
  • FlexVent suspension system supports your back
  • 360-degree reflectivity for visibility in low-light settings
  • Laptop sleeve offers extra protection
  • Front compartment has internal pockets for organization
  • Durable external water bottle pockets double as multi-use pockets
  • External bungee compression system for carrying a jacket
  • Item #TNFZB10
Responsible Collection
Recycled/Repurposed
Material
[upper] 100% nylon, [lining] 100% polyester
Volume
28L (1709cu in)
Shoulder Straps
articulated
Access
front panel
Pockets
1 external fleece-lined, 2 water bottle, 1 interior zip
Laptop Sleeve
yes, up to 13.75 x 11.25in
Weight Capacity
2lb 5oz
Dimensions
12 x 6.5 x 19.5in
Claimed Weight
2lb 5oz
Activity
casual
Manufacturer Warranty
lifetime

What do you think about this product?

Overall Rating

4.5 based on 1839 ratings

Review Summary

1 Stars - 76 reviews
2 Stars - 21 reviews
3 Stars - 43 reviews
4 Stars - 160 reviews
5 Stars - 1539 reviews

Fits True To Size

Screen reader users: the following list provides a visual scale to illustrate the product fit. Please refer to the heading above for the fit type in text.
Runs smallTrue to sizeRuns large

Customer Images

Here's what customers have to say

The backpack is praised for its durable construction, comfortable design, and ample storage space. Reviewers find it suitable for various uses like school, work, travel, and outdoor activities. While some minor issues are noted, such as shallow water bottle pockets and limited front pocket depth, the backpack is generally considered an excellent, high-quality product worth the investment.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews.

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5 out of 5 stars

July 9, 2025

Would recommend

The backpack survived a trip halfway around the world I would say that deserves an applaud

Someone
thenorthface.com

Originally reviewed on thenorthface.com

1 out of 5 stars

July 2, 2025

Never buy again!!!

Its the worst backpack you can find on the market because it broke inside and i wore it for a month

M.V
thenorthface.com

Originally reviewed on thenorthface.com

2 out of 5 stars

June 27, 2025

Quality issues

Used this backpack only for a couple of months before the embroidery started unraveling. Even if I cut it, it keeps unraveling. Reached out with warranty claim but haven't heard back yet.:(

user image
Suzy
thenorthface.com

Originally reviewed on thenorthface.com

5 out of 5 stars

June 20, 2025

Compact

Pink north face backpack is compact and even useful for hiking.

Kanj
thenorthface.com

Originally reviewed on thenorthface.com

5 out of 5 stars

June 6, 2025

The NorthFace borealis backpack 2024 version

This is my third borealis I've had a couple years currently I use this one I have for work and it's an awesome day pack. It's blue. I love the material and it gets me to point a to point B. I love the leather bottom adjustable straps and the side cupholders seems very durable compared to the previous models. As far as it is standing up that's a game changer for me but the way you fix it is stretch the bag out. It will stand up on its own when it's filled so if you're looking for a workhorse backpack, check out the borealis plan on buying another one all the best. Have a great summer.

Bernie G
thenorthface.com

Originally reviewed on thenorthface.com

Carly CGearhead
5 out of 5 stars

June 4, 2025

Perfect Pack for Work & Trails

Familiarity:
I've put it through the wringer

The Borealis 28L Backpack is my go-to for daily commutes and weekend adventures. The FlexVent suspension system and articulated shoulder straps make it super comfortable, even when fully loaded, and I love the easy-access laptop sleeve and front organization pockets for keeping essentials tidy. The durable build and external bungee system are perfect for stashing an extra layer, though I do wish the water bottle pockets were a bit deeper. Overall, this pack blends comfort, organization, and versatility—ideal for work, school, or a quick trail hike.

3 out of 5 stars

May 25, 2025

I'd buy again ONLY if the bag was redesigned stand up

I own a Borealis for about 6 years now. Photo shoots, library visits, overnight stays, road trips...the bag's size and construction are not the problems. It's not meant to use on the PCT. What sucks is you have to lean the bag against something or it lays on the dusty or muddy ground. Maybe the bag has been redesigned, I do not know. But you should INSURE this bag does not have to be propped up against something to stand up. Huge miss by Northface.

greg
thenorthface.com

Originally reviewed on thenorthface.com

4 out of 5 stars

May 5, 2025

Two boys two different reviews

I bought the Borealis for both of my boys when they were HS Freshman. My oldest just finished his Sophmore year of college and is still using his. But, I just had to buy my youngest a new one and he's only a HS Junior. So I'm not sure if the quality has dropped or if my youngest is just harder on bags. The crazy part is my oldest played football so I would think his would have had more abuse. They both traveled public transportation across the city. Either way I feel they held up pretty well considering the daily use and abuse.

PhillyMom
thenorthface.com

Originally reviewed on thenorthface.com

1 out of 5 stars

April 17, 2025

Wrong BackPack & Terrible Service

I ordered the Northface Borealis 28L BackPack based on the photos and video on BackCountry website. What I received was not the same item, then they charged me for the return of the product. When I asked them to rectify this situation, they asked me to prove it with photos. I sent photos. They asked for more photos... I told them that they have lost a 28 year customer and could keep the $8.99 that they didn't want to credit me. Misrepresented the BackPack and then gave terrible customer service. Two thumbs DOWN. Shame on you BackCountry!

user image
Troy K
5 out of 5 stars

March 29, 2025

The toyota of backpack

Bought this backpack back in 2020 for college, it has survived all type of activities like school, work, travel, hiking, camping,... it still feels like new and hasn't tear down. Great quality and overall build!

Charlie
thenorthface.com

Originally reviewed on thenorthface.com