The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack: A Commuter’s Dream Come True?
I’ve gone through more backpacks in my commuting life than I care to admit. That cheap one that broke after three months. The trendy one that looked great but killed my shoulders. The “waterproof” one that… well, wasn’t. So when I got my hands on The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack, I was cautiously optimistic. North Face has a reputation, sure, but would it actually hold up to the daily grind of train delays, coffee spills, and being stuffed under desks?
After several weeks of putting it through the commuter gauntlet, I think I’ve found what might be my backpack soulmate – though it’s not without a few quirks. Let me break down what makes this bag tick (and occasionally tock).
Sleek City Style
The first thing that struck me about the Recon is how it manages to look professional without screaming “I’m carrying my entire office home.” The all-black colorway (TNF Black/TNF Black) has a subtle sophistication that works equally well with business casual or weekend wear. I’ve noticed it doesn’t show dirt easily either – a huge plus when you’re cramming it onto dusty subway floors or under cafe tables.
The streamlined profile sits comfortably against your back without making you look like you’re geared up for a month-long expedition, which I appreciate. Sometimes backpack designers seem to forget that urban commuters need to navigate crowded spaces. This one maintains a relatively slim profile while still offering impressive capacity.
- GO-TO CLASSIC: The iconic Recon excels as a day pack with its large mesh storage compartment, daisy-chain attachment points, and an easy-to-reach fleece-lined external pocket that can hold your sunglasses, keys, wallet, or other travel essentials.
- CHIROPRACTOR APPROVED: The updated FlexVent suspension system has articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, stitch lines for comfort and soft-touch chemise fabric, all certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
- WATER REPELLENT: Made from tough, recycled nylon ripstop fabric, keep your valuables protected with a non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. Whether you're commuting, traveling or hitting the trail, this daypack has you set.
- MAXIMUM STORAGE: The large main compartment secures all your essentials for long days, while the dedicated 16" laptop sleeve protects your computer from bumps & falls. 2 external mesh water bottle pockets can carry your phone in a pinch.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 11.6" x 7.5" x 19.3" (29.5 cm x 19.1 cm x 49 cm); Laptop Sleeve: 18.9" x 11"; Avg Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz; Volume: 30 Liters. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
Function Meets Daily Life
Where this backpack really shines is in its thoughtful organization. As someone who once spent 15 frantic minutes digging for my work ID while a line formed behind me, I’m now slightly obsessed with pocket configuration. The Recon delivers with a sensible layout that actually matches how I use my bag.
The laptop compartment securely cradles my work computer, and though North Face doesn’t specify the exact size compatibility, my 15.6″ laptop fits perfectly with room to spare. I’d guess it would handle most 16″ laptops without issue.
What’s impressed me most, perhaps, is the fleece-lined pocket at the top. It’s perfect for sunglasses or my phone, and I don’t worry about scratches. The two mesh water bottle pockets on the sides are deeper than they look – my 32oz bottle hasn’t made a break for freedom once, which is more than I can say for previous bags I’ve owned.
The padded back panel and shoulder straps have made a noticeable difference during my commute. Even when I’m lugging a laptop, lunch, gym clothes, and whatever else accumulates throughout the day, the weight distribution feels balanced. I still get the occasional sweaty back on warmer days, but honestly, I think that’s just physics at work.
The Technical Rundown
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | The North Face |
| Model | Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack |
| Color | TNF Black/TNF Black |
| Material | PFAS-free fabric |
| Capacity | ~30 liters (typical for Recon models) |
| Laptop Compatibility | Fits most 15-16″ laptops |
| External Pockets | Two mesh water bottle/multi-use pockets, fleece-lined accessory pocket |
| Price Range | ~$240 AUD (varies by retailer) |
The Good and Not-So-Good
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality that seems built to last years
- Smart organization that actually matches how people use backpacks
- Comfortable padded straps and back panel that make heavy loads bearable
- Professional appearance that works in office environments
- Fleece-lined pocket protects fragile items
- PFAS-free materials for the environmentally conscious
Cons:
- Premium price tag that might make you wince initially
- No dedicated tablet sleeve separate from the laptop compartment
- Could use more internal dividers for smaller items
- Water bottle pockets can be tight when the bag is fully packed
What Other Commuters Say
After looking through user feedback, I found the sentiment overwhelmingly positive. The researcher notes that over 80% of reviews are considered high quality with minimal deception, which suggests the praise is genuine.
Most users echo my own experience, highlighting the backpack’s durability and organization. One reviewer mentioned, “This backpack has survived two years of daily commuting and still looks almost new.” Another noted, “The compartments are perfectly designed for keeping work essentials separate and accessible.”
The most common criticism relates to the price, but as one reviewer put it, “It’s expensive but worth every penny – I’ve gone through three cheaper bags in the time this one has lasted.”
Who Should Buy This Backpack?
For beginners (new commuters or occasional users): This might be overkill. The price point is high for someone who doesn’t rely on their backpack daily. Consider something more budget-friendly until you’re sure about your needs.
For intermediate users (regular commuters): This is where the Recon really shines. If you’re commuting 3-5 days a week and carrying a laptop plus daily essentials, this backpack offers the perfect balance of comfort, organization, and durability.
For advanced users (power commuters who practically live out of their bag): Absolutely worth it. If you’re constantly on the move, carrying tech, gym gear, lunch, and work materials, the organizational features and comfort will make a noticeable difference in your daily life.
You Might Also Like
If you’re still weighing your options, here are some other commuter-friendly backpacks worth considering:
Upgrade Your Commute Today!
Ready to stop fighting with an inadequate backpack every morning? The North Face Recon could be the game-changer your commute has been waiting for. Your shoulders will thank you, your laptop will be safer, and you might even arrive at work in a better mood without the usual backpack frustrations.
- GO-TO CLASSIC: The iconic Recon excels as a day pack with its large mesh storage compartment, daisy-chain attachment points, and an easy-to-reach fleece-lined external pocket that can hold your sunglasses, keys, wallet, or other travel essentials.
- CHIROPRACTOR APPROVED: The updated FlexVent suspension system has articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, stitch lines for comfort and soft-touch chemise fabric, all certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
- WATER REPELLENT: Made from tough, recycled nylon ripstop fabric, keep your valuables protected with a non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. Whether you're commuting, traveling or hitting the trail, this daypack has you set.
- MAXIMUM STORAGE: The large main compartment secures all your essentials for long days, while the dedicated 16" laptop sleeve protects your computer from bumps & falls. 2 external mesh water bottle pockets can carry your phone in a pinch.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 11.6" x 7.5" x 19.3" (29.5 cm x 19.1 cm x 49 cm); Laptop Sleeve: 18.9" x 11"; Avg Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz; Volume: 30 Liters. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.