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The North Face Isabella

Hiking & Camping > BackpacksRated: ***** by 135 reviews.

Rocky Mountain Trail

The Isabella was designed to fit a woman’s frame The North Face Isabella is a versatile day pack designed especially for women. The design of this bag was made to compliment the shape of a woman's body. One large main compartment is big enough for a full load of school books or everything you may need for a long day hike. The front organizer pocket keeps the essentials close at hand and easy to access and the front bungee system is perfect for those extra items that just don't fit inside, like a wet rain jacket. Ideally suited for use as a school book bag or a hiking backpack the Isabella will help you make the transition from work week grind to weekend adventure.

Features:

  • Basic organizer in front pocket
  • Carry handle
  • Designed and sized specifically for women to fit torso and hips comfortably
  • Hip-belt is designed and patterned specifically for the shape of women's hips.
  • Main compartment with multiple internal pockets to organize small essentials
  • Mesh side water bottle pockets
  • Reflective hits for nighttime visibility
  • Removable hip-belt comes off easily keeping it out of the way when not in use
  • Shoulder straps avoid the chest for comfortable load carrying.
  • Simplified bungee system on pack face lets you easily secure essentials like an extra layer
  • Small stash pocket on pack front for little items
  • Stitched back-panel with small channels for ventilation keeps your back cool
  • Torso length is shorter to accommodate a woman's build.

Altrec

Unisex pack designs are usually a guys-only club. Women have shorter torso lengths and different shoulders than men, and that's why The North Face designed their 1,200-cubic-inch Isabella Backpack with a female-specific back panels and anatomically proportioned shoulder straps. You carry the load better with more comfort and control. The Isabella has a removable hipbelt and a simplified bungee attachment system that stands apart from traditional unisex pack offerings. There's plenty of room for small essentials in the external stash pocket or the multiple internal pockets inside the main compartment.

Features:

  • Anatomically shaped and sized to fit a woman's back and torso
  • Available in the following colors while supplies last: Bittersweet Brown, Black, Blue Aster, Indian Clay Red, Millennium Blue, Oak Leaf Beige, Snow White
  • Capacity: 1,200 cu. in. (20 l.)
  • Dimensions: 17 x 12 x 6 in. (43 x 31 x 16 cm.)
  • Internal organizer in front pocket
  • Laminated and stitched backpanel design
  • Lightweight 10-oz. 100% polyester Sabre 6 fabric reinforced with sturdy 14-oz. Sabre 12 (also 100% polyester) along key abrasion areas and treated with a DWR finish
  • Redesigned and simplified bungee cord attachment on front of pack
  • Reflective accents for improved visibility, carrying handle for convenience
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Several internal pockets in main compartment allow for easy organization
  • Side mesh water bottle pockets and small external stash pocket for purse or change
  • Weight: 1 lb. 12 oz. (800 g.)

Berg's Ski Shop

Designed and sized specifically for women so everything you do looks good and is functional. Wether this be your school pack or your favorite light hiking pack, all the details are there to make your day comfortable and easy.
The Isabella is a small daypack that's designed and sized specifically for women and her simple organizational needs. All of The North Face's women's packs and sleeping bags are subjected to extensive women-specific fit tests. A bungee system on the front of the pack and multiple pockets inside and out give you lots of options for keeping your gear organized.
Features:
  • Sabre Fabrics are treated with a DWR finish and are abrasion resistant to withstand wear and tear of everyday use. Designed and sized specifically for women
  • Shoulder straps shaped to comfortably fit a woman's torso
  • Simplified bungee system on pack front
  • Small stash pocket on pack front for little items
  • Multiple internal pockets
  • Basic organizer in front pocket
  • Laminated, stitched back panel
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Mesh side water-bottle pockets
  • Reflective hits
  • Carry handle
  • Volume : 1200 in3 (20 liters)
  • Fabric : Sabre 6, Sabre 12


Oregon Mountain Community

Designed to conform to a woman's shape and fit a woman's torso, The North Face Isabella is a classic daypack, carrying enough room for the essentials, and then some. A sleek and stylish design works well for carrying around town, to class, and into the woods for a mid-day picnic. A bungee system on the front of the pack and multiple pockets inside and out give you lots of options for keeping your goods organized. Mesh side water bottle pockets make sure you don't get thirsty on the trail, and provides back-up. Attach the removable hipbelt for heavier loads. The Isabella is perfect for day trips in the mountains, or for toting your school or work necessities.

Features:

  • Basic organizer in front pocket
  • Carry handle
  • Designed and sized specifically for women
  • Laminated stitched backpanel
  • Mesh side water bottle pockets
  • Multiple internal pockets.
  • Reflective hits
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Shoulder straps shaped to comfortably fit a woman's torso
  • Simplified bungee system on pack front
  • Small stash pocket on pack front for little items

Mountain Gear

Be as regal as a Spanish queen (but perhaps more organized) with the utility pocket-laden, women-specific Isabella backpack from The North Face. Slide into the shoulder straps - designed just for women - and never lose track of your school papers and supplies with the multiple internal pockets, main compartment organizer, and front stash pocket.

Features:

  • Carry books and papers in the large main compartment and carry pens or your wallet in the multiple internal pockets, front pocket with an organizer, or small front stash pocket
  • Carry extra gear or a jacket in the simplified bungee system on the front of the pack
  • Don't bother trying to fit a guy's backpack - the women-specific comfort of the specially designed shoulder straps and removable hipbelt make for all-day comfort
  • Keep water with you all day from school campus to the practice field in the mesh side water-bottle pockets
  • Reflective hits and carry handle

USOutdoor.com

Designed to conform to a woman's shape and fit a woman's torso, the North Face Isabella is a classic daypack, carrying enough room for the essentials, and then some. With a sleek and stylish design, The North Face Isabella Backpack works well for carrying around town, to class, or into the woods for a mid-day picnic. A bungee system on the front of the Isabella pack and multiple pockets inside and out give you lots of options for keeping your goods organized. The North Face includes mesh side water bottle pockets to be sure you don't get thirsty on the trail, while providing back-up. Attach the removable hipbelt of the Isabella Backpack for heavier loads.

The North Face Isabella is the perfect pack for day trips in the mountains, or for toting your school or work necessities.


FogDog Sports

The North Face(r) Isabella daypack is designed and sized specifically for women. It has a removable hip belt and shoulder straps shaped to comfortably fit a women's torso. It features multiple pockets including a basic organizer in the front pocket and a small stash pocket on the pack front.

Features:

  • Average Weight: 1 lbs 12 oz
  • Basic organizer in front pocket
  • Carry handle
  • Designed and sized specifically for women
  • Dimensions: 17 in x 12 in x 6 in
  • Fabric: 600-denier polyester, 1200-denier polyester
  • Laminated, stitched back panel
  • Mesh side water bottle pockets
  • Multiple internal pockets
  • Reflective hits
  • Removable hip belt
  • Shoulder straps shaped to comfortably fit a women's torso
  • Simplified bungee system on pack front
  • Small stash pocket on pack front for little items
  • Volume: 1200 cu in

Backcountry.com

The North Face Women's Isabella Backpack is ready to go the distance. The Isabella has molded shoulder straps to comfortably fit a woman's narrower frame. Mesh water bottle pockets on the sides give you a place to stash water and other drinks so you stay hydrated (or caffeinated) on your journey across campus or across town. Keep all your schoolin' gear such as books and notebooks organized in the main compartment's internal divider pockets. A bungee system and organizer pocket on the Isabella's front panel give you quick access to a rain jacket, keys, cell phone, and other important stuff. Reflective hits on this The North Face daypack protect you from errant bikes and cars at night.


Paragon Sports

Designed to mirror a woman's frame, the Isabella's svelte construction contains a simplified bungee system on the pack's face, and a small accessory front pocket to hold petite items.

Features:

  • Basic organizer in front pocket
  • Designed and sized specifically for women
  • Laminated, stitched back panel
  • Mesh side water bottle pockets
  • Multiple internal pockets
  • Reflective hits; Carry handle
  • Removable hipbelt to distribute heavy loads
  • Shoulder straps shaped to comfortably fit a woman's torso
  • Simplified bungee system on pack front
  • Small stash pocket on pack front for little items
  • Two additional pockets to stash books and other belongings

Massey's Outfitters

The Isabella is a women-specific pack that features comfort and organization making it ideal for all-day adventures.

Sizes: One size Avg Weight: 1 lb 12 oz (800 g)

Volume 1200 in3 (20 liters) Fabric: Sabre 6, Sabre 12

Dimensions: 17" x 12" x 6" (43 cm x 31 cm x 16 cm)

 

 
  • Designed and sized specifically for women
  • Reflective hits
  • Shoulder straps shaped to comfortably fit a woman's torso
  • Simplified bungee system on pack front
  • Small stash pocket on pack front for little items
  • Multiple internal pockets
  • Basic organizer in front pocket
  • Laminated stitched backpanel
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Mesh side water bottle pockets
  • Carry handle


SummitHut.com

The North Face Isabella is a great daypack and bookbag designed specifically for women. With specially made shoulder straps and plenty of organization, the Isabella is sure to keep you on the move!

Features:

  • Basic organizer in front pocket
  • Carry handle
  • Designed and sized specifically for women
  • Laminated, stitched back panel
  • Mesh side water bottle pockets
  • Multiple internal pockets
  • Reflective hits
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Shoulder straps shaped to comfortably fit a woman's torso
  • Simplified bungee system on pack front
  • Small stash pocket on pack front for little items

O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)

Designed to fit a woman’s frame, this ladypack's svelte construction features a large main zip pocket, and a smaller stash zip pocket on front. Simplified bungee cord system on the pack’s face allows you to cinch down a rain jacket, or smaller items with easy on-the-go access.

Features:

  • Avg Weight 1 lb 12 oz (800 g)
  • Basic organizer in front pocket
  • Carry handle
  • Designed and sized specifically for women
  • Dimensions 17"x 12"x 6"(43 cm x 31 cm x 16 cm)
  • Fabric Sabre 6, Sabre 12
  • Laminated, stitched back panel
  • Last Women's Daypacks
  • Mesh side water bottle pockets
  • Multiple internal pockets
  • Reflective hits
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Shoulder straps shaped to comfortably fit a woman's torso
  • Simplified bungee system on pack front
  • Sizes One Size
  • Small stash pocket on pack front for little items
  • Volume 1200 in³ (20 liters)

This description was also provided by: The North Face


Appalachain Outdoors

This daypack from The North Face is designed and sized specifically for women. The shoulder straps are shaped to comfortably fit a woman's torso.


TetonVillageSports.com

The Isabella is a small daypack that's designed and sized specifically for women and her simple organizational needs.


Moosejaw

No description provided.

Access:top
Access Types:Top, front
Avg Weight:1 lb 12 oz (800 g)
Capacity:1200 in3 (20 liters)
Country of Origin:China
Dimensions:17" x 12" x 6" (43 cm x 31 cm x 16 cm)
External Pockets:2 Water bottle, 2 front
Fabric:Sabre 6, Sabre 12
Laptop Pocket Dimensions:N / A
Last:Women's Daypacks
Manufacturer Warranty:Lifetime
Material:Sabre 6, Sabre 12 with DWR finish
Number of pockets:main compartment + 3
Recommended Use:Campus, around town
Size:Medium
Sizes:One Size
Skateboard Carry:No
Suspension:Padded shoulder straps
Volume:1200 in³ (20 liters)
Waist-belt:Yes, removable
Weight:1 lb 12 oz (800 g)

View other products from The North Face classified in Hiking & Camping > Backpacks.

View all products from The North Face.
View other products classified in Hiking & Camping > Backpacks.

Sometimes brands make complementary products for the opposite gender that coordinate with this product, we also try to show these products below.

The North Face Isabella Backpack Moonlight IvoryThe North Face Isabella Backpack Moonlight IvoryUnspecified$75.00

Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

ColorSize
Moonlight-Ivory-128Black-001Cherry-Stain-Brown-7K2Camodil-Grey-Z34El-Rio-Blue-F95Terrazzo-Pink-16MN/A
Cherry Stain Bro
Cherry Stain Bro
      74.95
Cherry Stain Brown
Cherry Stain Brown
      62.9564.996 More...
Oak Leaf Beige
Oak Leaf Beige
      54.95
El Rio Blue
El Rio Blue
      64.9974.958 More...
Black
Black
      64.9974.9511 More...
Camodil Grey
Camodil Grey
      74.9575.002 More...
Moonlight Ivory
Moonlight Ivory
      74.9575.002 More...
Deep W.Blue      74.95
Indian Clay
Indian Clay
      75.00
Terrazzo Pink
Terrazzo Pink
      74.9574.956 More...
N/A74.9074.9074.9074.9074.9074.90 

Legend

  •     - The North Face
  •     - Massey's Outfitters
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - Paragon Sports
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)
  •     - Berg's Ski Shop
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - Appalachain Outdoors
  •     - Rocky Mountain Trail
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - SummitHut.com
  •     - Altrec
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - FogDog Sports

Notes:

TetonVillageSports.com offers this product at $75.00, but does not provide any color/size information.

The North Face Isabella Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****103
****21
***7
**3
*1
To see how this product compares to others view Backpack Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Great backpack for all women!

Rating:*****

I'm absolutely thrilled with this purchase. I was an owner of Jansport for many, many years (From high school to college), and of course, Jansport makes great backpacks that last a long time. In fact, mine lasted nearly eight years and is still in great condition without a single rip or tear. However, I was getting a little tired of the typical Jansport Classic look and wanted something a little more stylish and different for graduate school. First, I purchased the Jansport Wasabi from this site due to its cute colors, stylish design, and affordable price. It was a great backpack, but it was too big for my current needs. Too long, bulky, and big on my back. I'm a 5'4 female with a petite frame and I definitely didn't want to carry a load that was too big. I returned the Jansport and after hours of research on the internet, I finally decided on the Isabella. This one, I absolutely LOVE. I was a little worried that it may be too small but no, it’s great for my notebook, textbook, as well as few paperbacks. Despite its smaller size, it is able to fit a lot of books. I can even fit two paper backs in the front compartment! I love the colors, the sleek design, and the size that flatters a smaller female body. This is definitely the perfect backpack for any females that want a backpack that will carry all their school necessities (Even work and baby things) without too much extra space. Perfect for daily use. I feel that this backpack will fit any small to medium sized females up to 5'6 or 5'7 without a problem. This one is more pricey than other backpacks, but I'm still glad I decided to invest an extra 20-30 dollars for this one because I know it'll last me a long time. Plus, I love its design and size—it was definitely worth it.

Angelise at Backcountry.com on 04/19/2006

North Face Isabella

Rating:*****

This backpack is great! As a short girl (5'2") and a grad student, I don't need to carry much at one time, so the Isabella is the perfect size for me. I can even fit my 14" laptop in it (inside of a laptop sleeve) and still have room for a couple of little books. The organization is great, it's really sturdy, and and carries weight evenly. All in all, super backpack!

*for all those who are afraid it might be too small, pay attention to what you are purchasing. Go to a store, and look at any backpack that is 1200cu in before you make a decision. I assume most of the people who say the pack is too small were not aware of what backpack size is comparable to. Also, the water bottle pockets do not fit the normal Nalgene diameter. I went out and bought a Sigg and it fits great though!

jennifer.gaulin2332784 at Backcountry.com on 09/01/2008

Great pack, nice size!

Rating:*****

I bought this in white and red on sale last year and LOVE IT. It's my go-to hiking pack and it is large enough to carry everything you need for a weekend trip as long as you pack lightly. The organizer pockets inside are a VERY nice addition and while there isn't a padded pocket for a laptop, there is a net pocket across the entire front-interior of the pack for holding items of different sizes snugly into place. I usually keep my insect repellant in that area. The front zip pocket, while small, will hold a small first aid kit and thats just what I use it for. The middle zipper (between the main compartment and small front zipper) is also compartmentalized and has a place for keys, change, etc. While somewhat smaller than the male packs (ie: heckler), this will carry everything you need and look cute doing it!

*JadeAfton* at Backcountry.com on 10/23/2008

The North Face Isabella Backpack

Rating:*****

I use this backpack for school. It's smaller than most backpacks, and probably doesn't have as much room as others, but I can still pack in everything I need - including an ultra-portable laptop. There's a lot of intuitive compartments to stick your small stuff in too. With all the stuff I cram in there, it gets pretty heavy, but it's extremely comfortable to carry on your back. It's like ergonomically correct or something like that. I can trek across campus and not have the same problems that I would have with other backpacks I've used before. And of course, since it's The North Face brand, it's well-made, and I really doubt it will fall apart on me no matter how much stuff is in it or how long it hangs on my back. I highly recommend it for students with small laptops - 12" or smaller.

bag lady at Backcountry.com on 09/11/2006

Perfect!

Rating:*****

I was looking for a backpack to replace the gigantic L.L. Bean one that has served me for a few years. It was most important to me to have a pack that would lie flat on my back--especially if it was not very full. This bag totally fits the bill. It has a slim profile and is the perfect size for a smaller framed woman. I actually was quite impressed with what it can hold, as some of the reviews made me nervous it would be too small. But, I can fit a pair of shoes, a lunch, a change of clothes, a few magazines, an umbrella, a water bottle, and tons of personal items without feeling weighed down. Great for biking, walking, just about anything! (And the gray/pink combo is feminine without being obnoxious.)

LinzMD17 at Backcountry.com on 08/24/2007

"Great backpack!"

Rating:*****
I am always looking for a good, supportive backpack. I love this TNF bag, small, but holds a lot. I can fit two decent-sized textbook and my (small) laptop. The straps on this bag really are designed for a woman, especially women who have a tiny frame (like I do) or a smaller torso. The straps are also padded nicely and do not hurt your shoulders after being worn most of the day. The back is one of my favorite parts of the backpack. It's a sturdy back that helps you keep good posture. That being said, if you need to carry several textbooks (3+) and a rather large laptop- this bag will probably not be able to fit all of those. This is a very well made product and the delivery was fast.
Meagan at Moosejaw on 09/28/2009

good for petite gals, but it won't hold much

Rating:****

I am a petite gal (5'2" and 100 lbs) with very narrow shoulders. I cannot wear "regular size" backpacks because the straps slip off my shoulders and pin my arms backwards---really painful, and you feel like you're going to tip over! This pack has a smaller shoulder harness that fits fantastically on a petite figure. My only complaint is that it does not hold a lot of stuff. OK, so maybe a 100 lb girl shouldn't be carrying anything too heavy, but when I go on day hikes I don't have quite enough room for all my gear. The water bottle pocket is small and won't hold bigger bottles, which is also aggravating. However since it's the only backpack I've ever found that actually FITS me, I'll give up the extra space for comfort.

JaneG at Backcountry.com on 06/01/2007

"what a great backpack"

Rating:*****
I bought the North Face Isabella because, well, because my dandy Jansport, ripped (by accident...not) and I wanted a new backpack.I decided to go for a smaller one and buy the Isabella, mainly because I stand at a great 4"11.5. But I am a high school student, and I was worried about the size, but after getting it, it's a lot bigger than I thought. It fits all of my binders and a book, that's just the main compartment. There's a lot more room for pens, etc. in the front. A load that I normally carry feels much lighter in the Isabella than normal! You should definately buy this backpack! It's a super backpack for school, and I'm sure I'll be using it for a long time to come!
Rosemary at Moosejaw on 06/02/2009

The Perfect Carry On

Rating:*****
I went on an vacation with my four year old son and used the North Face Isabella as my carry on. I needed to have free hands and the Isabella back pack was comfortable to wear on my back. The straps adjust very easily. The inside is really cool looking. It has many organizing pockets which came in handy. I was able to put a lot in despite it being smaller than your average back pack. It did not look big and bulky on me. Definitely made for a woman. My sister really liked it too and is getting one for herself. It will be put to good use. I am very happy I purchased it. I wish I had one this fancy when I was in school!
Tamara Bileca at Altrec on 08/16/2007

Perfect backpack, perfect fit, perfect gift

Rating:*****
I bought this pack for my wife as part of a mothers day present. I had read many of the reviews prior to purchasing and recieved some help from one of teh associates online. my wife is smaller in stature and teh pack fits her perfectly. It is rugged and durable as North Face products reputation is. The color selections made it easy to choose from. It is a great day pack that allows her plenty of room for her tings, plus enough for our two boys things. She couldn't be happier. The back sits great on her frame, and the compartments make it easy to get to things quickly. We do a lot of trail biking and this pack suits short trips perfectly.
Kevin Henderson at Altrec on 05/19/2009

Negative Reviews:

Quality compromised in shorter length

Rating:*
I was very disappointed in the Isabella backpack. I was looking for a shorter version of the Recon to fit my smaller torso, however,quality was compromised. The shoulder straps are not padded and seem flimsy, the hip belt is not wide enough and a small water bottle barely fits in the mesh pockets. Why not just make a shorter version of the Recon? I returned the Isabella for a refund.
Anonymous at Altrec on 01/22/2008

Not what i expected

Rating:**
I was going to use this for school i loved how it looked but it was way to small. i could barely fit two books in it. also i ordered the moonlight ivory color and when it came it looked completely different from the picture. its fine for carrying around small stuff but definitely wouldn't recommend for school and its also pretty expensive for what it is..
sammy at Altrec on 07/31/2009

Great backpack for a kid.

Rating:**

I didn't realize how small it was when I ordered it, when the backpack arrived at my house I was tempted to give it to my 7 year old neighbor. It's really small. But I love the coloring and the style, it just doesn't have enough space.

JenB at Backcountry.com on 06/11/2007

just too small

Rating:**

We purchased the Isabella for a school back pack - it was way too small for that purpose - we returned it for a Mentor and are perfectly thrilled with the room that pack offers

disnybldog at Backcountry.com on 09/05/2006

Neutral Reviews:

Too small for college!

Rating:***
This is a great backpack overall for small trips or for a student in jr. high or maybe high school. But it's WAY TOO SMALL for a college student. I'm a nursing major and have tons of huge books that this teeny tiny backpack just couldn't fit. However, I love the water bottle holders, thick padded shoulder straps, the several compartments to keep things organized, and just the overall style. Totally comfy to wear as long as there's not a lot of stuff in it.
Anonymous at Altrec on 08/25/2009

A little to small

Rating:***
I got the isabella backpack in the millenium blue color and was really happy with how it looked. I wish that the back was larger so i could fit more than three binders for school. I was very pleased though with how it fit on me because it was designed for women but not big enough to hold books required for high school.
Almost Satisfied at FogDog Sports on 07/28/2009

Just too small for school

Rating:***
Nice pack if you are looking for something a bit smaller. I carry 5-6 text books with notebooks and binders and this just won't hold it all. Love North Face, but this isn't going to work! Was returned the next day.
vicki at Altrec on 08/08/2009

Cute, but too small!

Rating:***
This backpack is adorable but it is too small! I am in high school and it doesn't fit many books, i put two books in, and it's already loaded! I wouldn't recommend this bag for school. I'm somewhat disappointed
Anonymous at Altrec on 10/24/2009

not good for short people

Rating:***
its a pretty good backpack but i don't think its good for someone 5feet tall, it makes me look a lot younger than i really am and its harder to distribute the weight. it holds stuff well.
Anonymous at Altrec on 08/23/2008

Small

Rating:***
It is kinda really small. So alot doesn't fit in it but if you are looking for a small backpack then it is great!
Keri Krass at Altrec on 06/11/2008

"its ok"

Rating:***
its an ok backback, nothing too great.
Brandon at Moosejaw on 11/05/2008