Journal · Guide
The backpack with the bungee cord on the front, in two sizes.
The Borealis is one of The North Face’s most recognisable backpacks: two compartments, side bottle pockets and the criss-cross bungee cord on the front. At ECRU we carry two sizes: the Borealis Classic, in several colours and also in a Patch version, and the Mini Borealis. Here are the differences, with the data from each product page.
In short
Which one? The Borealis Classic, 29 litres with a 15" laptop sleeve, for university, work and long days; the Patch version is the same backpack with three exclusive patches. The 10-litre Mini Borealis to travel light.
What is at ECRU? The Borealis Classic in black, Summit Gold, TNF Navy, Pacific Teal and Deep Burgundy, the Classic Patch in TNF Black and Stone Slab, and the Mini Borealis in black.
Backpack · Borealis Classic
Pacific Teal / Restorative Teal
29 litres · 15" laptop sleeve
View product →01 · The Classic
Two compartments and a back panel built to carry
The Borealis Classic holds 29 litres and measures 48.3 x 34.3 x 19 cm. The main compartment has organisation pockets, a 15" laptop sleeve (34.2 x 26.6 cm) and a hydration port; in front there is a second compartment, also with pockets, and a front pocket. On the sides, two mesh bottle pockets, and on the front, the bungee cord with clips for carrying extra items on the outside.
The back panel is what sets it apart from a simple city backpack. It has the FlexVent™ suspension system, certified by the American Chiropractic Association, with moulded shoulder straps, a padded breathable mesh back panel with a spine channel and a polyethylene sheet. The sternum strap and hip belt come off when you do not need them. The body is 420D nylon and the base 1680D ballistic nylon.
02 · The versions
Two sizes: Classic and Mini
29 L
Borealis Classic
Two compartments, 15" laptop sleeve, FlexVent™ and a removable hip belt. 1166 g. The one with the most colours, with Pacific Teal new this season.
Patch
Classic, Patch version
It is the same Borealis Classic: 29 litres, two compartments, FlexVent™, 420D nylon body and 1680D base. The finish changes, with three exclusive The North Face patches; its official page also lists a non-PFC DWR finish and 1060 g.
10 L
Mini Borealis
The small version: 22 x 10.5 x 34.3 cm and 340 g, with the bungee cord on the front, an internal pocket and two side pockets for a bottle or phone. No laptop sleeve.
03 · Specs
Sizes and materials, version by version
- Borealis ClassicBlack, Summit Gold, TNF Navy / Tin Grey, Pacific Teal / Restorative Teal, Deep Burgundy / TNF Black
- Classic · size29 litres · 48.3 x 34.3 x 19 cm · 1166 g
- Classic · laptop15" laptop sleeve (34.2 x 26.6 cm) in the main compartment
- Classic · fabric420D nylon body and 1680D ballistic nylon base
- Classic · Patch versionTNF Black / Asphalt, Stone Slab / TNF Black · 29 litres · three exclusive patches
- Mini BorealisBlack · 10 litres · 22 x 10.5 x 34.3 cm · 340 g
- Mini · fabricRecycled 210D ripstop nylon with non-PFC DWR finish
- Back panelClassic and Classic Patch: FlexVent™ with padded mesh panel and spine channel
04 · Who it suits
Everyday, university or travel
For university or work, the Borealis Classic is the logical choice: the laptop goes in its sleeve, books and folders in the main compartment and small things in the front one. If the day includes the gym or a hike, the hip belt and sternum strap spread the weight better; if not, take them off for a cleaner look. For a short trip, its 29 litres fit a change of clothes and the essentials. The Classic Patch does the same job with a more graphic look.
The Mini Borealis is for those who do not carry a laptop: wallet, keys, a bottle, a light sweatshirt. At 340 g and 10 litres, it works for everyday city use or a short hike, and keeps the bungee cord on the front. If you are torn between it and the Classic, the question is simple: if you carry a computer, Classic; if not, the Mini is much lighter on your back.
FAQ
Questions about the Borealis
What is the capacity of the Borealis backpack?
The Borealis Classic and the Classic Patch hold 29 litres. The Mini Borealis, 10 litres.
Does a laptop fit in the Borealis Classic?
Yes. It has a 15" laptop sleeve inside the main compartment, measuring 34.2 x 26.6 cm. The Mini has no laptop sleeve.
What is the difference between the Borealis Classic and the Classic Patch?
None in the construction: the Classic Patch is the 29-litre Borealis Classic, with the same compartments and FlexVent™ back panel. What changes is the finish, with three exclusive The North Face patches. According to the brand’s official website, it weighs 1060 g and its 420D nylon body has a non-PFC DWR finish.
Is the Borealis waterproof?
It is not a waterproof backpack. The Mini and the Classic Patch have a DWR finish, which repels light rain and splashes; we explain it in our article on DWR at The North Face.
Where to buy The North Face Borealis backpack in Tenerife?
At ECRU: in our La Laguna, Santa Cruz and La Orotava stores, and online at ecru.es with shipping to all the Canary Islands, mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands.