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The North Face Jester

Hiking & Camping > BackpacksRated: ***** by 235 reviews.

Altrec Outlet

Puns aside, The North Face Jester Backpack is a versatile design that easily transitions between your daily commute and your weekend day hikes. It features a 1,850-cubic-inch capacity main compartment with an external bungee system for any extra shells or outer layers. Side mesh pockets conveniently expand to latch onto your gym bottles and other forms of liquid refreshment. Because the main compartment doesn't feature any internal dividers, The North Face Jester is perfect for hauling around big binders for work and school assignments. A removable hipbelt stows away for those times when you're shouldering a light load.

Features:

  • Available in the following colors while supplies last: Black, Dark Earth Brown, Blue Aster, Empire Blue, Green Camo, Inew Taupe, Oak Leaf Beige, Pinot Red, Snow White, Indian Clay Red, Aviator Blue, Cargo Green, Cylinder Blue
  • Carry handle up top
  • Convenient organizer and key clip inside front accessory pocket
  • Dimensions: 19 x 13 x 7 in. (48 x 33 x 18 cm.)
  • Dual mesh water bottle pockets on sides
  • Durable #10 YKK zippers in high stress regions
  • Durable 100% polyester 10 oz. 600-denier Sabre 6 fabric with 14 oz. 1,200-denier Sabre 12 reinforcement areas
  • Expanded bungee cord system on upper pack for attaching jackets and shells
  • Generous main compartment accommodates books and binders
  • Large reflective element for improved visibility in low light conditions
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Supportive foam backpanel
  • Volume: 1,850 cu. in. (30 l.)
  • Weight: 1 lb. 10 oz. (740 g.)

This description was also provided by: Altrec

USOutdoor.com

Spring and fall are the perfect time to toss out the old and bring in the new. Cash in your two pocket tote from years back and go for something that provides more organization, comfort and style. The North Face Jester Backpack is designed with a large main compartment for your books or spare clothing and a front organizer pocket with a key clip, pens, iPod and bus pass. A stitched foam back panel gives the Jester additional comfort and stability. When your daypack is stuffed full, you can stow your wind breaker or rain coat in the outer bungee system. The North Face finished this pack off with reflective safety patch so that you can be seen on your way home at night.

Providing ample comfort and organization, The North Face Jester is ideal for all-day adventures.

Features:

  • #10 YKK® zippers on critical construction features
  • Avg Weight : 1 lbs 10 oz (737 g)
  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Carry handle
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Dimensions : 19 in x 13 in x 7 in (48 cm x 33 cm x 18 cm)
  • Fabric : Sabre 6, Sabre 12
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • Mesh water-bottle pockets
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Volume : 1850 cu in (30 liters)

Mountain Gear

There's no joking about it, when you want to carry a ton of stuff, be it books for school or your commute to work, you can't go wrong with The North Face's Jester backpack. With 1850 cubic inches of capacity, you have plenty of room for books, files, and gym clothes while a soft foam back panel and removable hipbelt keep your load from wearing on you.

Features:

  • Carry a good stock of H2O in the mesh water bottle pockets while you stow your coat or a pair of running shows on the packs exterior with the bungee system
  • Keep your gym clothes, books, files, or lunch safely stowed with durable polyester fabric within the large main compartment
  • Keep your wallet and cellphone in the front accessory pocket and keep your key's safely attached to the key clip
  • Never put undue pressure on your back with the comfortable, stitched foam back panel and removable hipbelt that redistributes weight from your shoulders to your hips
  • Stay a little safer when you're walking or biking at night with the large reflective patch that makes you more visible to others
  • Zip up a full load and don't worry, the tough #10 YKK zippers don't fall apart

Berg's Ski Shop

The Jester is a daypack that's designed and sized specifically for books and binders and simple organizational needs.So there is nothing funny about the versatility of this pack and its ability to take you from school to light hiking in the woods.
It's no joke. The Jester, in a wide range of colors, is a favorite year after year for its large main compartment, removable hipbelt and versatile pockets. Lots of simple storage space to hold all sorts tools from being school pack to biking around town.
Features:
  • Sabre Fabrics treated with a DWR finish and abrasion resistance to withstand wear and tear of everyday battle.
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Mesh water-bottle pockets
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • #10 YKK®  zippers on critical construction features
  • Carry handle
  • 1850 in3 (30 liters)
  • Fabric : Sabre 6, Sabre 12


Rock/Creek Outfitters (Spring 2009)

The Jester Backpack by The North Face is a day pack perfect  for traveling to school, work or that important coffee shop meeting.  With a large main compartment you can fit an arsenal of books and binders as well as your most necessary items that can be put in the front accessory pocket. 
A comfy, double stitched foam back panel gives you a more padded back area so you don't feel the points of the books, etc in your back and the hipbelt is removable for when you are riding your bike or just don't need it.

Features:

  • #10 YKK zippers on critical construction features
  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Carry handle
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • Mesh water-bottle pockets
  • Removable hipbelt

Ramsey Outdoor

A coveted daypack among athletic-minded scholars, the Jester's main compartment is large enough to store a day's worth of books and binders to get you where you need to go. With a removable hipbelt, you can easily distribute heavy loads so you're back isn't overloaded. The front accessory pocket contains an organizer for easy access to your essentials, and is topped off with a bungee system on the pack's face so you can easily add-on last minute items for your journey.

Features:

  • #10 YKK® zips on critical construction features
  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Carry handleQ lb 10 ozQ9" x 13" x 7"
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • Mesh water bottle pockets
  • Removable hipbelt

Mountain Gear (Spring 2009)

The Jester backpack from The North Face is built tough to withstand the abuses of campus life and features a large main compartment that's just perfect for books and binders. Treated with a Durable Water Repellent, to keep your important stuff safe and sound.

Features:

  • Complete with an organizer and key clip, the front pocket helps you keep track of small items
  • Removable hipbelt comes in handy when you're carrying a heavy load, but can be removed when your load lightens
  • Stash your jacket in the bungee system on the upper pack face
  • Stay visible in low light thanks to the large reflective patch
  • Treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish to shed rain, the Sabre fabric stands up to abrasion and abuse
  • Two side mesh pockets carry water bottles or what have you

Paragon Sports

A coveted daypack among athletic-minded scholars, the Jester's main compartment is large enough to store a day's worth of books and binders to get you where you need to go.

Features:

  • #10 YKK zippers on critical construction features
  • Bungee system on upper pack face; Carry handle
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • Mesh water bottle pockets; Removable hipbelt
  • The front accessory pocket contains an organizer for easy access to your essentials, and is topped off with a bungee system on the pack's face so you can easily add-on last minute items for your journey
  • With a removable hipbelt, you can easily distribute heavy loads so you're back isn't overloaded

Oregon Mountain Community

The North Face Jester Day Pack has what it takes for carrying around life's basics. The Jester backpack is perfect for school with its large main compartment easily accommodating books and binders. The Jester has a large reflective patch for nighttime visibility, so you won't have to worry when the sun goes down. This daypack has a comfortable stitched foam backpanel. The North Face Jester is one of the hottest daypacks out there!

Features:

  • #10 YKK xippers on critical construction features.
  • Bungee system on upper pack face.
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel.
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip.
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders.
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility.
  • Mesh water-bottle pockets.
  • Removable hipbelt.
  • Top carry handle.

FogDog Sports

Perfect for school or day trips, this North Face(r) Jester daypack features a large, zippered main compartment that fits books and binders. The front accessory pocket includes an organizer and a key clip, while the removable hipbelt provides stability. The 600D/1200D polyester construction allows for long-lasting durability. The stitched foam back panel offers maximum comfort.

Features:

  • #10 YKK® zippers on critical construction features
  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Carry handleV00D/1200D polyester
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • Measures 19-in x 13-in x 7-in
  • Mesh water-bottle pockets
  • Padded shoulder straps
  • Removable hipbelt

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

A coveted daypack among athletic-minded scholars, the straightforward design of The North Face Jester scores well in durability, construction quality and convenience.

Features:

  • #10 YKK zips on critical construction features
  • Bungee system on the pack's face for attaching extra gear
  • Carry handle
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Front accessory pocket contains an organizer for easy access to your essentials
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • Main compartment is large enough to store a day's worth of books and binders to get you where you need to go
  • Mesh water bottle pockets
  • With a removable hipbelt, you can easily distribute heavy loads so you're back isn't overloaded

Massey's Outfitters

The Jester features comfort and organization making it ideal for all-day adventures.
Specifications

Sizes : One Size
Volume : 1850 cu in (30 liters)
Dimensions : 19 in x 13 in x 7 in (48 cm x 33 cm x 18 cm)
Fabric : Sabre 6, Sabre 12
Avg Weight : 1 lbs 10 oz (737 g)

Features

* Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
* Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
* Large main compartment fits books and binders
* Bungee system on upper pack face
* Mesh water-bottle pockets
* Removable hipbelt
* Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
* #10 YKK zippers on critical construction features
* Carry handle

 

 


Backcountry.com

The North Face Jester Backpack includes a front organizer pocket and massive space in the main pocket for all your school books. But with a breathable mesh back panel, padded shoulder straps, and waist-belt, the Jester carries your load more like a technical pack. Remove the Jester Pack's waist-belt and stash it when your load is light. The front bungee system holds an extra layer. Keep water bottles on-hand in the mesh pockets, and stay safe at night with a large reflective The North Face patch on your back.


SummitHut.com

The Jester from North Face understands the need for fun. Despite some serious construction and durable features, the Jester is ready for a little action on the trail. Hip belt is removable while the large compartment fits books, gear and other essentials.

Features:

  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Carry handle
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibilityQ0 YKK® zippers on critical construction features
  • Mesh water bottle pockets
  • Removable hipbelt

Appalachain Outdoors

A wanted daypack among athletic-minded scholars, the Jester's main compartment is large enough to store a day's worth of books and binders to get you where you need to go. With a removable hipbelt, you can easily distribute heavy loads so you're back isn't overloaded. The front accessory pocket contains an organizer for easy access to your essentials, and is topped off with a bungee system on the pack's face so you can easily add-on last minute items for your journey.


Al's Sports

The Jester features a front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip.

Features:

  • Avg Weight : 1 lbs 10 oz (737 g)
  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Carry handle
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Dimensions : 19" x 13" x 7" (48 cm x 33 cm x 18 cm)
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Mesh water-bottle pockets
  • Removable hipbelt
  • Style number AF9V 
  • Volume : 1850 in3 (30 liters)

Rocky Mountain Trail

One of the most popular school book bags in the world, and for good reason.

Features:

  • #10 YKK® zippers on critical construction features
  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Carry handle
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • Mesh water-bottle pockets
  • Removable hip-belt

Zappos.com

A bag for the serious student.
Front accessory pocket with organizer.
Key clip so you won't loose keys.
Large main compartment fits books and binders.
Bungee system to hold items that need to be easily accessible.
Two side mesh water bottle pockets.
Removable hipbelt.
Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility.
Carry handle and shoulder straps.
Volume: 30 liters.
Dimensions: 13 wide x 7 deep x 19 high.


TetonVillageSports.com

The Jester is a daypack that's designed and sized specifically for books and binders and simple organizational needs.

Features:

  • #10 YKK zippers on critical construction features
  • Bungee system on upper pack face
  • Carry handle
  • Comfortable, stitched foam back panel
  • Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip
  • Large main compartment fits books and binders
  • Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility
  • Mesh water-bottle pockets
  • Removable hipbelt

This description was also provided by: O2GearShop.com (Spring 2009)


FinishLine.com

The Jester is a daypack that's designed and sized specifically for books and binders and simple organizational needs. Front accessory pocket with organizer and key clip. Comfortable, stitched foam back panel. Large main compartment fits books and binders. Bungee system on upper pack face. Mesh water-bottle pockets. Removable hipbelt. Large reflective patch for nighttime visibility. #10 YKK zippers on critical construction features. Carry handle.


Moosejaw

No description provided.

Access:panel
Access Types:Front
Average Weight:1 lb 10 oz (740 g)
Bottom Access:No
Capacity:1850 in³ (30 liters)
Cargo Capacity:1850 cu. in.
Cell Phone Pocket/Sleeve:Yes
Dimensions:19" x 13" x 7" (48 cm x 33 cm x 18 cm)
External Pockets:1 Front, 2 water bottle
Fabric:Sabre 6, Sabre 12
Frame Sheet:No
Front Access:No
Hydration Compatible:No
Laptop Pocket Dimensions:N / A
Laptop Size:N/A
Load-lifter Straps:No
Manufacturer Warranty:Lifetime
Material:600D polyester / 1200D polyester
Materials:600d polyester, 1200D polyester
Number of pockets:main compartment + 4 pockets
Organizer Panel:Yes
Other Electronics Pocket(S):1
Pack Fabric (Primary):Sabre 6 & Sabre 12 nylon
Padded Laptop Compartment:No
Primary Use:School
Recommended Use:School, around town, travel, casual
Size:One Size
Skateboard Carry:No
Spindriftcollar:No
Stays:None
Sternum Strap:No
Sunglasses Pocket, Lined:No
Suspension:Padded straps and foam back panel
Top Access:Yes
Torso Length:One Size
Type:Technical
User Statement:Rugged and convenient, this spacious daypack flourishes both on the trail and on campus.
Volume:1850 in3 (30 liters)
Waist Belt:Yes
Waist-belt:Yes, removable
Weight:1 lb 10 oz (740 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, we can't be sure that the product is the same across the stores that offer its, so you may find the same product listed more then once on GearBuyer.com, we these list highly similar products below.

The North Face Jester Backpack BlackThe North Face Jester Backpack Black$55.00
The North Face Jester Backpack - Cardinal RedThe North Face Jester Backpack - Cardinal Red$39.99
The North Face Jester Backpack - Coffee BrownThe North Face Jester Backpack - Coffee Brown$39.99

These are products that have been indicated being comparable to this product:

The North Face BorealisThe North Face Borealis
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$67.92 - $85.00
The North Face IsabellaThe North Face Isabella
Hiking & Camping > Backpacks
$54.95 - $75.00
The North Face ReconThe North Face Recon
Hiking & Camping > Backpacks
$59.95 - $89.00

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
Black-001Coffee-Brown-2P4Deepwater-Basin-Blue-6D5Saratoga-Green-M30Camodil-Grey-Z34Cardinal-Molten-Red-87ETerrazzo-Pink-16MBlue AsterNew TaupeBlackBrown-Plaid-21RCardinal//moltenDiesel BluePinot RedTerrazzo PinkBrown PlaidIndian Clay RedCamodil GreyYam OrangeN/A
Coffee
Coffee
                   55.00
Coffee Brown
Coffee Brown
                   54.9554.955 More...
Brown Plaid
Brown Plaid
                   54.9554.957 More...
Brown Plaid / Black
Brown Plaid / Black
                   55.00
Green Camo
Green Camo
                   54.9555.00
New Taupe
New Taupe
                   43.9754.95
Saratoga Green
Saratoga Green
                   49.9954.958 More...
Diesel Blue/ El Rio Blue
Diesel Blue/ El Rio Blue
                   54.9555.00
Deepwater / Blue
Deepwater / Blue
                   54.9555.00
Deep Water / Basin
Deep Water / Basin
                   54.95
Deep Water Blue
Deep Water Blue
                   49.9955.00
Deep Water Blue / Basin Blue
Deep Water Blue / Basin Blue
                   54.9554.952 More...
Deepwater Blue / Basin Blue
Deepwater Blue / Basin Blue
                   55.0055.0055.00
Empire Blue
Empire Blue
                   54.9555.00
Deep Water Blue / Royal / Black
Deep Water Blue / Royal / Black
                   55.00
Black
Black
                   49.9954.959 More...
Camodil Grey
Camodil Grey
                   54.9554.954 More...
Brown Plaid - 21R                   44.99
Cardinal Red
Cardinal Red
                   38.9555.00
Cardinal Red / Black / White
Cardinal Red / Black / White
                   55.00
Cardinal Red / Molten Red
Cardinal Red / Molten Red
                   49.9954.956 More...
Cardinal Red/ Molten Red
Cardinal Red/ Molten Red
                   54.95
Dieslbl / El                   54.95
El Rio Blue            55.00       
Indian Clay Red
Indian Clay Red
                   34.1034.1054.95
Pinot Red
Pinot Red
                   54.9555.0055.00
Red / Molten Red
Red / Molten Red
                   55.00
Terrazzo Pink
Terrazzo Pink
                   54.9554.957 More...
N/A54.9054.9054.9054.9054.9054.9054.9055.0055.0055.0054.9054.95 55.0055.0055.0055.0055.0055.00 

Legend

  •     - Berg's Ski Shop
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Spring 2009)
  •     - Rocky Mountain Trail
  •     - Massey's Outfitters
  •     - Appalachain Outdoors
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - Ramsey Outdoor
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - Zappos.com
  •     - Mountain Gear (Spring 2009)
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - SummitHut.com
  •     - FinishLine.com
  •     - Altrec
  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters (Spring 2009)
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Paragon Sports
  •     - FogDog Sports
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - Altrec Outlet

Notes:

Al's Sports offers this product at $54.99, but does not provide any color/size information.

TetonVillageSports.com offers this product at $55.00, but does not provide any color/size information.

The North Face Jester Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****135
****15
***4
**5
*0
To see how this product compares to others view Backpack Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Gray/Pink Jester

Rating:*****

After my Eddie Bauer backpack wore out after 6 years, I decided it was time to splurge on a new bag. This is my first North Face purchase, and I'm very happy with it. I'm a college student, and the Jester easily accomodates my books and binders. It also has plenty of pockets in the front pouch for organizing pens, pencils, keys, gum, calc, chapstick, notecards, personal items, etc. And the mesh pockets on the side are handy for drinks. At times, I have also been able to pack my laptop (in a sleeve), plus 2 books. It's very comfortable and easy to carry, even when the bag is packed to the max. I'm hoping this bag will last me through a few more years of college.

*Bonus* Backcountry is awesome! My bag was shipped to me within a few days even though I used the economy (free) shipping. Since my original purchase I have ordered more items. Thanks!!

jberger_832274416 at Backcountry.com on 09/08/2008

A strong backpack and a fresh start for my son.

Rating:*****
After doing without a backpack since the beginning of school I finally addressed the issue with my 18 year old son. He requested a North Face product over our long standing L.L.Bean loyalty. I was eager to accommodate his wishes. It was a sign that school mattered for him to agree to the need for something to carry his books around. It has arrived and I am impressed with the product. I like the outside pocket features. We did not have this with our previous backpack. It appears durable and well made. I believe it will hold up to his rugged handling. The website made it very easy to sit down to and process through. I look forward to future purchases and continuing to support your company.
Tina Pepe at Altrec Outlet on 10/17/2009
Rating:*****
I love this backpack! If you\'re looking to lug around a ton of books, you might want to keep looking, though. It holds my 15 inch Macbook and 2, maybe 3, law books (depending on how big they are). That\'s enough for my purposes, but there are roomier backpacks out there, if that\'s what you\'re looking for (for example, LL Bean). It could also have more padding on the straps and back, but, I think it\'s generally the larger backpacks that have the thicker padding, which makes sense, and it\'s never really compromised my comfort. Also, I\'ve been caught in the rain with this backpack, but my books and computer have stayed dry. Overall, I\'d recommend this backpack--excellent combination of style and functionality!
Anonymous at Zappos.com on 10/25/2009

"The most utilitarian no-messing backpack."

Rating:*****
My 2nd Jester purchase, it's easy to just get fed up of looking at the same bag for so long ( 5 years!) and order something different, just for the change. Reordering the same one meant I know where the pockets are on the side to throw in keys/retrieve water bottle/grab cell phone whilst cycling, finding corkscrew in an emergency etc.. Ideal for multi uses - I can even get a weeks groceries in it without the need for plastic grocery sacks and still being able to bike home with it all safely stowed. I will buy another in five years time I'm sure - but I will change the colour though, just to be abit adventurous...
Emma at Moosejaw on 09/07/2009

"roomier than you think!"

Rating:*****
i had a jansport big student backpack for my first three years of high school, but i was reluctant to get another one just for senior year because they are pretty much useless outside of a classroom. i settled on the north face jester because 1) it's super cute (i have it in terrazzo pink), 2) it's big enough to hold 3 AP-size textbooks, a 1-inch binder, a spiral notebook, and a couple novels (and my nalgene!), and 3) it performs well on weekend camping adventures. those funny little bungee strings on the front seem ridiculous but are actually quite handy for holding a raincoat or sweatshirt.
Ann-marie at Moosejaw on 08/22/2009

Great bag for the price

Rating:*****
Bought this for a vacation and for a bag to bring to school. It works great and can fit my laptop in it along with a change of clothes, shoes and a few books. The two compartments on the side work very well to put bottles of water in. I was able to fit 2 20oz bottles of water on each side. It is very comfortable. You don't feel anything digging into your back. It also is good because you can fit a lot of stuff in here without it looking like one of those really hefty bags. I strongly recommend this product.
Erik at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 09/01/2008

This Backpack Rocks!!!!!

Rating:*****
I purchased this backpack for my 6th grader. She loves it! It is extremely durable for all of the books she now has to carry with her...the style, color and size Rocks! I like the way the straps adjust to make the backpack more uniform to her body so she isn't hurting her back with all of the weight that she has to carry around. I am very impressed with this backpack and other purchases that I have made with this site and will continue to be a customer for life;) Thanks for the great deals and wonderful products!
Danielle....mother of 4 at Altrec Outlet on 09/12/2007

"Great fit for small frame female"

Rating:*****
I did a ton of searching trying to find a backpack that would fit all of my books and a 15" laptop. My biggest issue was finding something that is large enough for all the stuff and is not bigger than me. This was the perfect fit, it fits me well, doesn't look too bulky and the shoulder straps don't cover my entire shoulders. So, if you're a small frame female, you may find this review helpful. I know I would've killed for one of these while I was trying to find the perfect backpack :)
Asalya at Moosejaw on 09/20/2009

Great for commuting

Rating:*****

Primary purpose for this pack was for commuting to/from work. Has plenty of space for u-lock, cable lock, pump, spare tube, levers, and lock keys (and extra room) just in front zipper. I always carry those on the front zipper area, then often carry a laptop, purse stuff (wallet, keys, phone, camera, zip bag with jewelry and hair stuff, gym stuff (socks, sports bra, shirt, shorts/pants), and sometimes shoes and sometimes raincoat. Durable and attractive. And, the FIRST backpack in my 30 years that has actually fit me (5' 2.5"), which is very important when riding.

Regan at Backcountry.com on 10/17/2008
Rating:*****
Zappos is the best - I love this backpack! I love the style and the amount of stuff I can put in it. As a college student, I need extra space for all of my books and supplies. This also made a great edition on my canoeing trips where I could easily store water bottles and other misc. things I needed. Zappos did an amazing job with the delivery. I ordered this product Thursday evening and received the backpack on Friday morning. It was faster than going to the store. Thanks Zappos. You're the best!
Anonymous at Zappos.com on 04/16/2008

Negative Reviews:

Poor quality in my view

Rating:**

I bought this bag because it was comfortable, was black (I use it for work) and because it did not have the 'mesh style' backs and straps that are fashionable now, but which cause some clothing fabrics to pill, scuff and tear. I do not overpack my bag, it has only been used in day-to-day city life and it is 6 months old. However it has split between the padded back and the base - and is now unusable. Because it was bought in a location outside of where I am living now it is difficult to get a replacement. I have not found North Face at all helpful as a company in this respect (i.e. in assisting me with a replacement or refund). Looking at the bag it is obvious that it needs a thicker fabric at the base and a more resilient method of stitching the base to the back. I have been looking at others' comments to see if I am the only one with this problem and I see I am not. Pity because other than this it is a good bag.

Kathy at Backcountry.com on 02/27/2009

well built, lack features

Rating:**

While this is another well built pack from The North Face, it does lack features. It has the one main compartment, and only one other zipped pocket. The water bottle pockets have no zippers, and are only a pouch really. The pack is a little small for school use, especially if you have lots of textbooks, and/or a laptop. As for hiking, it may do as a light daypack. I returned my Jester for a refund.

If you want a really great pack for school use, with a dedicated laptop pocket, along with many, many features, look for the packs by STM. They come with a lifetime warranty, and they rock!

John M., Olympia, WA at Backcountry.com on 09/26/2008

Decent bag, Better Choices

Rating:**

I mean, I'm not going to attempt to tell you that this bag isn't North Face quality. I've had one for about a year now, and I haven't noticed any serious wear or tear. However, I wouldn't really suggest this bag to anyone. The straps are not very padded, the waist strap is straight uncomfortable, and there is no strap across the upper chest. When filled up, it can really weight you down. I have other bags (Recon, Camelbak Wingman) that manage to carry the same amount without putting nearly the same amount of strain on my back. In short, cheap TNF option, but you get what you pay for.

Zach Branson at Backcountry.com on 02/11/2009

Decent but...

Rating:**

Like most TNF products this backpack is well made and gets the job done. That said, in my opinion its more than worth the extra 30-40 bucks to pick up a pack like the recon or hotshot if you're set on a north face pack! Best piece of advice to consider when buying gear, spend the extra coin for something that is of better quality and you really like and will use for many, many years!

Casey Kipfer at Backcountry.com on 11/07/2008

disappointed

Rating:**

I took this bag with me to the Galapagos Islands and used it non stop for two weeks. THe first day one of the pulls started to fray and I couldn't get it back on. Another did the same a few days later. The stitching around the zipper compartments also frayed.. It did the job, but not as well as I had expected

kmc2479934 at Backcountry.com on 11/25/2008

Neutral Reviews:

Great Bag BUT

Rating:***
I bought this bag because it was comfortable, was black (I use it for work) and because it did not have the 'mesh style' backs and straps that are fashionable now, but which cause some clothing fabrics to pill, scuff and tear. I do not overpack my bag, it has only been used in day-to-day city life and it is 6 months old. However it has split between the padded back and the base - and is now unusable. Because it was bought in a location outside of where I am living now it is difficult to get a replacement. I have not found North Face at all helpful as a company in this respect (i.e. in assisting me with a replacement or refund). Looking at the bag it is obvious that it needs a thicker fabric at the base and a more resilient method of stitching the base to the back. I have been looking at others' comments to see if I am the only one with this problem and I see I am not. Pity because other than this it is a good bag.
Aussie at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 02/27/2009

Good school pack, if nothing else

Rating:***

I've had this backpack for a quite a while now and have been a bit disappointed by it. I will say that it does work great as a school backpack or for overnight traveling. Although it does not have a laptop sleeve built in, a 17 inch notebook will fit (a bit snug - but it will fit) and it does have ample room for a days coursework as well.

It is however far from being a good hiking pack. It lacks a sternum strap, hydration compatibility, the shoulder straps are not especially comfortable and the waist belt is practically worthless. The back of the pack is not well padded by any means as well so lugging books around campus on a hot day is made even less enjoyable by the back sweat that you will form.

All in all, this is a good school and travel backpack but far from being trail worthy in my opinion.

Austin at Backcountry.com on 06/24/2009

Okay, but not the best trail choice.

Rating:***

This backpack gets the job done, and works well. I would only use it for school/commuting, though. It's just not built for the trails. It's got plenty of pockets for organization, and a large main pocket. I wouldn't recommend this backpack strictly for hiking purposes. You can pay a little extra for a much better daypack.

Tyler Olander at Backcountry.com on 12/09/2008

the north face jester

Rating:***
its north face what else can i say its durable good quality ,a bit on the small side really small side, perfect for trips across town or the county .just wish it was bigger but defently somthing you need to have, a must have
bk at FogDog Sports on 06/27/2009