North Face Borealis vs Borealis Classic
North Face Borealis and North Face Borealis Classic backpacks are available in a very similar price range. Both are laptop backpacks that are suitable for daily commuting and short travels. In a glance, they seem to come with similar features. So, what is actually the difference between North Face Borealis vs Borealis Classic? Continue reading below to find the answer.
Storage Capacity
First of all, North Face Borealis and North Face Borealis Classic do have different sizes. The Classic is a little bit more spacious, as the total storage capacity is rated at 29 liters. On the other hand, North Face Borealis is slightly smaller with a capacity of 28 liters. Frankly, the difference is not a dramatic one, but the extra space of the Classic can be useful when you need to put one or two extra clothes into your bag.
Each of the two models features a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate a 15” laptop. Each model also has a secondary compartment with internal organization, featuring a fleece-lined media pocket, a zippered pocket, and a flexible webbing that is designed to keep the cords neat. These internal pockets are handy for securing your smaller mobile devices and essential items.
On the front side of each backpack, you can find an elastic bungee for items that require external storage. On North Face Borealis, the external bungee cord goes lower to the bottom of the bag. Meanwhile, on North Face Borealis Classic, the bungee cord is placed higher and does not reach the bottom of the bag.
Build Quality
You may have noticed that North Face Borealis vs Borealis Classic backpacks are made from different materials. North Face Borealis seems to maintain the structure better. The fabrics are not too flimsy, and the structural integrity makes it so much easier to load the bag. The North Face Borealis backpack is made using the 210D Cordura nylon mini-ripstop, 420D nylon, 600D polyester, and 1680D ballistic nylon. The build quality is very good and reliable.
On the other hand, North Face Borealis Classic’s fabrics are somehow flimsier. But this does not mean that the build quality is bad. In fact, the build quality is also very good and durable. It is made using the 420D nylon, 300D mini-ripstop, 600D polyester, and 1680D ballisctic nylon.
Other Features
Both of these backpacks are equipped with the FlexVent injection-molded shoulder straps. These shoulder straps feature additional PE foam that greatly increase the comfort. They each also have a padded air-mesh back panel with the Spine Channel and PE sheet for enhanced breathability and back support. These backpacks are very comfortable to wear even after long walking.
To enhance the stability and weight distribution, both North Face Borealis and North Face Borealis Classic come with removable sternum straps, winged and stowable hip belts, and side compression straps. Simply tighten the side compression straps to keep your belongings in place, and equip the hip belt to keep the load neatly on your back.
North Face Borealis vs Borealis Classic
Conclusion
North Face Borealis and North Face Borealis Classic indeed share many similarities. But they do come with different designs and sizes. North Face Borealis Classic will give you the best value for the money, as it provides a larger storage capacity. The build quality is also very good. However, North Face Borealis can be your choice if you prefer the design.
