The North Face Recon Backpack Review
Introduction
The North Face Recon backpack starts at $109. TNF markets this bag as a daypack, but I think it can function quite well as a non-intensive outdoor pack as well. After hearing countless positive reviews about this backpack, especially considering its price point, I decided to give it a try.
The Pros
First off, this backpack is quiet. Sounds weird, but bear with me. Have you ever had a backpack with metal zippers that if you shook the backpack, you can hear the sound of the zipprs clacking on each other? Yeah, this backpack does not do that. The North Face did a great job making the backpack quiet. Something I really never thought about until I got this backpack.
The materials used in this bag are pretty high quality (and sustainable). TNF uses 100% recycled synthetic materials for the main structure of the bag. TNF also uses other materials like a stretchy water-proof fabric for the water bottle holder, and a stretchy mesh material in the front pocket. For zipper- material fanatics, they opted for YKK zippers.
What I also like about this bag is that it is 30L, but it does not feel overly large. It can definitely hold 30L, and it sure does feel like 30L when you are actually packing it, but on the exterior, you cannot really tell. This I think makes the backpack a great choice for traveling, or a daypack when you're out or commuting.
Speaking of this backpack acting as some sort of a hybrid pack, what I also love about this backpack is that it not only contains a sternum strap (with a TNF signature whistle), but also a waist strap for more comfort when outdoors, and stability if used while doing some sort of activity like running or biking. Bonus points for the waist strap being detachable. The shoulder straps are also comfortable. They are thick, padded, and I definitely did not feel like I was overheating like I did with my Bellroy Transit Workpack.
If we are also talking about heat, it is also worth mentioning that the back panel of the backpack is well-padded and contains a central vent.
There are a lot of compartments, and organizational features of this backpack. There are sleeping pad straps underneath the backpack where you can store things like a hoodie, sleeping pad, picnic mat, etc. There are also straps along the water bottle holder that can act as either extra security for bigger bottles or if you want to strap something else around there.
The Cons
While this backpack may be near perfect, there are some cons to this backpack worth mentioning.
The backpack lacks a false bottom or some sort of bottom laptop protection for when you store your device inside. I think at bare minimum, North Face could have made the laptop compartment more secure at this price point.
Another con to the backpack are the insanely long shoulder strap adjusters. The length is not necessarily the con itself, but the lack of organization of the straps is where I think can be a con for some. It is kind of weird because there is an elastic band for the sleeping pad straps underneath the backpack (and those straps are much shorter).
For travelers (with roller lugages), this backpack does not have a luggage strap attached to the back panel unfortunately. I have had some success when using both the sternum strap and waist strap as a luggage strap, but it definitely did not perform nearly as well.
The backpack does not stand on its own. Might not seem like a con, but it definitely is worth mentioning.
Conclusion
In summary, I think The North Face backpack delivers in many aspects, particularily the quality of materials, and the versatility of the bag. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a great daypack whether it is for day-to-day life, or for their travels. However, I think the lack of drop-protection for laptops are worth noting when considering this backpack. Though, this an easy fix if you get creative enough. That also goes for the lack of a dedicated luggage strap. While these may not be deal-breakers for everyone, depending on how you decide to use the bag, they are worth considering. Overall though, if you value durability, and a great design at a reasonable price, I would highly recommend this backpack.