
North Face Jester vs Borealis Backpack: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Pack
When it comes to choosing the perfect backpack for your daily adventures, The North Face Jester and Borealis are two of the most popular options on the market. Both packs are durable, comfortable, and offer a range of features to suit different needs. But which one is right for you? Read on to compare the North Face Jester vs Borealis backpack in detail and make an informed decision.

Key Features Comparison
Feature | The North Face Jester | The North Face Borealis |
---|---|---|
Capacity | 28 liters | 28 liters |
Dimensions | 18.5″ x 11.5″ x 6″ | 19″ x 13″ x 8″ |
Weight | 1.5 pounds | 1.9 pounds |
Materials | 600D polyester | 420D nylon |
Laptop sleeve | Yes, up to 15″ | Yes, up to 15″ |
Hydration compatible | Yes | Yes |
External pockets | 2 mesh water bottle pockets, 1 front zip pocket | 2 mesh water bottle pockets, 2 front zip pockets, 1 daisy chain |
Internal pockets | 1 large main compartment, 1 mesh zippered pocket, 1 stretchy mesh pocket | 1 large main compartment, 1 zippered mesh pocket, 2 stretchy mesh pockets, 1 laptop sleeve |
Comfort features | Padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum strap, and removable hip belt | Padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum strap, and removable waist belt |
Design and Construction
Both the Jester and Borealis backpacks have a sleek and modern design. The Jester is made from a durable 600D polyester material, while the Borealis is made from a more lightweight 420D nylon. Both packs are water-resistant, but the Borealis has a slightly higher water resistance rating.
The Jester has a more compact design than the Borealis, with a capacity of 28 liters compared to the Borealis’ 28 liters. This makes the Jester a great option for everyday use, while the Borealis is better suited for longer trips or carrying heavier loads.
Comfort and Fit
Both the Jester and Borealis are comfortable to wear, with padded shoulder straps and adjustable sternum straps. The Jester has a removable hip belt, which can be helpful for distributing weight on longer hikes. The Borealis also has a removable hip belt, but it is wider and more padded than the Jester’s belt.
The Jester’s back panel is made of a breathable mesh material, which helps to keep you cool and comfortable on hot days. The Borealis’ back panel is made of a more traditional foam material, which provides good support but is not as breathable as the Jester’s mesh back panel.
Features
Both the Jester and Borealis have a range of features to suit different needs. The Jester has two mesh water bottle pockets on the sides, as well as a front zip pocket for smaller items. The Borealis has two mesh water bottle pockets, two front zip pockets, and a daisy chain on the front for attaching additional gear.
Inside, the Jester has a large main compartment, a mesh zippered pocket, and a stretchy mesh pocket. The Borealis has a large main compartment, a zippered mesh pocket, two stretchy mesh pockets, and a laptop sleeve.
Price
The North Face Jester backpack is typically priced at $79, while the North Face Borealis backpack is typically priced at $99.
Conclusion
The North Face Jester and Borealis are both excellent backpacks that offer a range of features to suit different needs. The Jester is a great option for everyday use, while the Borealis is better suited for longer trips or carrying heavier loads. Ultimately, the best backpack for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between the Jester and Borealis backpacks:
- Capacity: The Jester has a capacity of 28 liters, while the Borealis has a capacity of 28 liters. If you need a backpack for everyday use, the Jester will be sufficient. If you need a backpack for longer trips or carrying heavier loads, the Borealis is a better option.
- Weight: The Jester weighs 1.5 pounds, while the Borealis weighs 1.9 pounds. If you are looking for a lightweight backpack, the Jester is a better option. If you need a backpack that is more durable and can handle heavier loads, the Borealis is a better option.
- Materials: The Jester is made from a durable 600D polyester material, while the Borealis is made from a more lightweight 420D nylon. The Jester is more resistant to wear and tear, while the Borealis is more water-resistant.
- Comfort: Both the Jester and Borealis are comfortable to wear, with padded shoulder straps and adjustable sternum straps. The Jester has a removable hip belt, which can be helpful for distributing weight on longer hikes. The Borealis also has a removable hip belt, but it is wider and more padded than the Jester’s belt.
- Features: Both the Jester and Borealis have a range of features to suit different needs. The Jester has two mesh water bottle pockets on the sides, as well as a front zip pocket for smaller items. The Borealis has two mesh water bottle pockets, two front zip pockets, and a daisy chain on the front for attaching additional gear. Inside, the Jester has a large main compartment, a mesh zippered pocket, and a stretchy mesh pocket. The Borealis has a large main compartment, a zippered mesh pocket, two stretchy mesh pockets, and a laptop sleeve.
- Price: The North Face Jester backpack is typically priced at $79, while the North Face Borealis backpack is typically priced at $99.