Top Backpacks for School-The North Face Borealis vs. Jester.
If you loved the Jester Backpack but want something with a little more organization and support, you'll definitely want to check out the Borealis line. The Borealis has been one of The North Face's best-selling backpacks for years, and after trying both, it's easy to see why.
The biggest difference is that the Borealis feels a little more "premium." It has a more supportive suspension system, a sturdier frame, additional organization pockets, and slightly more structure, making it a favorite for college students, commuters, travelers, and anyone carrying heavier loads every day.
The Jester is still an excellent backpack—and usually costs a little less—but if comfort and organization are your top priorities, the Borealis is worth the upgrade.
Borealis vs. Jester Comparison
Find the perfect backpack for school, work, commuting, and travel.
🎒 BOREALIS BACKPACK (28L)
✔ Backpack Weight: 2 lbs 5 oz (1,050 g)
✔ Dimensions: 12 × 6.5 × 19.5 in
✔ Capacity: 28 Liters
✔ Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to a 16-inch laptop
✔ Comfort: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✔ Organization: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✔ Back Support: FlexVent™ suspension with extra structure
🎒 WOMEN'S BOREALIS (27L)
✔ Backpack Weight: 2 lbs 1 oz (930 g)
✔ Dimensions: 11 × 5.75 × 18.75 in
✔ Capacity: 27 Liters
✔ Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to a 16-inch laptop
✔ Comfort: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✔ Women's-specific FlexVent™ suspension
🎒 JESTER BACKPACK (28L)
✔ Backpack Weight: 1 lb 10 oz (740 g)
✔ Dimensions: 11 × 8.25 × 18.13 in
✔ Capacity: 28 Liters
✔ Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to a 16-inch laptop
✔ Comfort: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
✔ Organization: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
✔ Back Support: FlexVent™ suspension
⭐ BOREALIS vs. JESTER
🎒 Borealis
✔ Larger overall backpack
✔ More structured design
✔ Better laptop protection
✔ More storage pockets
✔ Better for heavier loads
✔ Better for travel
✔ Better for hiking
🎒 Jester
✔ Lighter weight
✔ Slightly easier to carry
✔ Simpler organization
✔ More affordable
✔ Excellent everyday school backpack
✔ Great for casual travel
My Recommendation
If you're carrying a laptop, books, work supplies, or travel gear every day, I'd spend a little more and choose the Borealis. It has a more supportive suspension system, better organization, and feels more comfortable when carrying heavier loads.
If you want an excellent everyday backpack that's a little lighter and easier on your budget, the Jester is a fantastic choice. It's comfortable, durable, and has everything most students and commuters need.
Bottom line: The Jester is perfect for everyday use, while the Borealis is the better choice if you carry heavier loads or want premium organization and support.
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I hope this comparison helps you choose the perfect backpack! Click the links below to shop your favorite. If your child (or you!) has a specific color in mind, don't wait too long—some of the most popular colors sell out quickly, especially during back-to-school season.
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