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The North Face Recon

Hiking & Camping > BackpacksRated: ***** by 52 reviews.

Berg's Ski Shop

The TNF Recon backpack is all about getting you what you need. Whether you're in the field or using it as a school pack you'll always need options. Recon's got you covered.
Whether you're seeking out your next adventure or just going to work, the Recon gives you the options you need. A padded laptop sleeve keeps your computer safe. Versatile pockets inside and out let you organize your gear. This coveted daypack efficiently holds all your gear and keeps you organized whether you're using it to store goods that make you smarter, or stronger. Available in a variety of colors, this nylon pack is lightweight and durable for everyday use.
Features
  • BackSaver angled front panel - The angled front bottom positions the load closer to your back, helping you carry the load of your pack more efficiently.
  • Dual mesh side water bottle pockets with reinforcement
  • Front compartment with organizer
  • Laminated backpanel with breathable mesh
  • Large front mesh pocket
  • Padded laptop sleeve fits up to 15" laptop
  • Reflective hits
  • Safe-T whistle
  • Small stash pocket with water resistant zipper on front
  • Tuck away hipbelt
  • Pack dimensions - 19" x 13" x 8" (48 cm x 34 cm x 20 cm)
  • Pack weight - 2 lbs 2 oz (1000 g)
  • 10 YKK®  zipper on main zipper is super durable 2015
  • Fabric 420D nylon, 1680D Ballistics
  • Volume 2015 (33 liters)
BackSaver:Biomechanical studies have shown that carrying pack loads in the correct place is more efficient and crucial to minimizing lower back strain. Applying this information to several daypack styles, via BackSaver Technology, these daypacks are designed with an innovative angled bottom panel that works with the action of gravity to automatically shift the weight of the pack'­s cargo closer to the user'­s back '± resulting in a far more comfortable fit when carrying medium to heavy loads

Mountain Gear

You don't have to conduct in-depth reconnaissance to find out about the utility of the Recon Backpack from The North Face that keeps your books, gym clothes and laptop safely stowed in a sturdy main compartment with a laptop sleeve. Get to your keys, wallet, and on-the-go snacks easily when you stow them in the front pockets, and keep your cell phone within reach in the accessory pocket.

Features:

  • Carry your books or gym clothes safely in the large main compartment - they'll be safe thanks to the sturdy 420D nylon fabric while the padded laptop sleeve keeps your hardware safe
  • Heavy loads matter less with the comfortable padded Airmesh back panel that cushions while allowing air to circulate between back and pack
  • Keep your keys or sunglasses in the small stash pocket with a water-resistant zip while you keep snacks or your wallet in the large, front mesh drop pocket
  • Keep your load properly positioned against your back with The North Face's BackSaver technology which angles the bottom panel to shift the cargo weight closer to your back
  • Stay a little safe if you're out biking at night with your pack thanks to its reflective hits
  • Store your cell phone in the stretch woven accessory pocket on the shoulder strap
  • Take water with you as a built-in hydration port and dual stretch water bottle pockets give you plenty of stowage options
  • When there's not enough room to sling it over your shoulder, grasp it by the sturdy top-carry handle

Rocky Mountain Trail

This coveted daypack efficiently holds all your gear and keeps you organized whether you’re using it to store goods that make you smarter, or stronger The North Face Recon backpack is a great all-around pack for the scholastic weekend warrior. Features like a padded internal sleeve that easily accommodates a hydration bladder or laptop computer make this pack ideal as a school book bag or as a hiking backpack. The large main compartment has enough room for a full load of books or all your day hike essentials. Built for comfort on campus and on the trail, the padded Airmesh back panel and BackSaver Technology bottom panel make heavy loads more comfortable. A large mesh pocket on the front of the pack works well as storage for a helmet, ball, or extra layer. Laptop Sizing. Click here to learn more about how TNF uses waste foam to add protection in high impact areas.

Features:

  • BackSaver bottom panel with compression
  • Can hold a 15" laptop
  • Comfortable padded Airmesh back panel
  • Dual stretch side water bottle pockets
  • Large front mesh drop pocket
  • Large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port
  • Reflective hits
  • Small stash pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Stretch-woven accessory pocket on shoulder strap
  • Sturdy top carry handle

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

New for 2008 the Recon mid-capacity pack is ideal for dayhikes and school use. The North Face® Recon also features a large mesh front pocket that lets you keep a bike helmet or an extra layer within easy reach.

Features:

  • #10 YKK zipper on main compartment withstands the wear and tear of heavy loads
  • Adjustable sternum strap improves pack stability
  • Backsaver technology uses an angled bottom panel to shift the weight closer to you center of gravity for reduced lower back strain
  • Front pocket with organizer panel for school items includes cell phone and electronics pockets
  • Internal capacity of 2,015 cu. in. (33 liters)
  • Laminated back panel with breathable mesh and channels for ventilation
  • Main compartment with universal padded sleeve for laptops and a hydration port (reservoir not included)
  • Shoulder straps also include breathable mesh padding; tuckaway hip belt
  • Side mesh water bottle pockets; bottom compression straps let you attach additional bulky items
  • Signal whistle built into plastic sternum strap buckle

Paragon Sports

This coveted daypack efficiently holds all your gear and keeps you organized whether you’re using it to store goods that make you smarter, or stronger. Available in a variety of colors, this nylon pack is lightweight and durable for everyday use

Features:

  • Avg Weight: 2 lbs 2 oz (965 g)
  • BackSaver bottom panel with compression
  • Comfortable padded Airmesh back panel
  • Dimensions: 19"x 13"x 8" (48 cm x 34.5 cm x 20 cm)
  • Dual stretch side water bottle pockets
  • Fabric: 420D nylon, 1680D Ballistics
  • Holds laptops 15 inches or smaller
  • Large front mesh drop pocket
  • Large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port
  • Reflective hits
  • Small stash pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Stretch-woven accessory pocket on shoulder strap
  • Sturdy top carry handle
  • Volume: 2015 in3 (33 liters)

Ramsey Outdoor

This coveted daypack efficiently holds all your gear and keeps you organized whether you’re using it to store goods that make you smarter, or stronger. Available in a variety of colors, this nylon pack is lightweight and durable for everyday use.

Features:

  • Avg Weight:  2 lbs 2 oz (965 g)
  • BackSaver bottom panel with compression
  • Comfortable padded Airmesh back panel
  • Dimensions: 19"x 13"x 8" (48 cm x 34.5 cm x 20 cm)
  • Dual stretch side water bottle pockets
  • Fabric: 420D nylon, 1680D Ballistics
  • Large front mesh drop pocket
  • Large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port
  • Reflective hits
  • Small stash pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Stretch-woven accessory pocket on shoulder strap
  • Sturdy top carry handle
  • Style Number ABKH
  • Volume: 2015 in3 (33 liters)

This description was also provided by: Al's Sports


FogDog Sports

The North Face(r) Recon dayback is ideal for short outings and treks across town. It features a large main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve and a hydration port. It also includes a large mesh drop pocket and a small stash pocket with a water-resistant zip.

Features:

  • Average Weight: 2 lbs 2 oz
  • BackSaver bottom panel with compression
  • Comfortable padded airmesh back panel
  • Dual stretch side water bottle pocket
  • Fabric: 420-denier nylon, 1680-denier ballistics
  • Large front mesh drop pocket
  • Large main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve and a hydration port
  • Reflective hits
  • Size: 19 in x 13 in x 8 in
  • Small stash pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Stretch woven accessory pocket on the shoulder strap
  • Sturdy top carry handle
  • Volume: 2015 cu in

USOutdoor.com

An ideal pack for daily organization The North Face Recon backpack features a large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port. Coupled with a padded Airmesh back panel the Recon has you covered from point A to point B and everywhere in between.

Enjoy the ruggedness of The North Face.

Features:

  • 2015 in³ (33 liters)Q9" x 13" x 8" (48cm x 34cm x 20.5cm)T20D nylon, 1680D ballisticsRlbs 2oz (965g)
  • BackSaver bottom panel with compression
  • Comfortable padded Airmesh back panel
  • Dual stretch side water bottle pockets
  • Large front mesh drop pocket
  • Large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port
  • Reflective hits
  • Small stash pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Stretch woven accessory pocket on shoulder strap
  • Sturdy top carry handle

PeterGlenn

The North Face Recon daypack is a versatile backpack. Throw your hydration reservoir into the Recon, zip in your lunch, and head out on a hike. The Recon has a hydration port to help it function as a hiking pack. During the week, take out the water and put your laptop into its padded compartment. This backpack features a comfortable Airmesh and BackSaver back panel and padded shoulder straps for comfort.

Features:

  • 420D nylon, 1680D ballisticsR015 cu inQ9 x 13 x 8R Mesh side pockets
  • Chest strap
  • Front mesh drop pocket
  • Holds 15 or smaller laptop
  • Reflective hits
  • Side compression straps

The North Face

This coveted daypack efficiently holds all your gear and keeps you organized whether you’re using it to store goods that make you smarter, or stronger. Available in a variety of colors, this nylon pack is lightweight and durable for everyday use. Pack features one large main zip pocket with a laptop sleeve (fits most 15” laptops) with hydration port exit to keep your thirst in check on your journey.

Features:

  • Avg Weight 2 lbs 2 oz (965 g)
  • BackSaver bottom panel with compression
  • Comfortable padded Airmesh back panel
  • Compatible with most 15" laptops
  • Dimensions 19"x 13"x 8" (48 cm x 34.5 cm x 20 cm)
  • Dual stretch side water bottle pockets
  • Fabric 420D nylon, 1680D Ballistics
  • Large front mesh drop pocket
  • Large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port
  • Reflective hits
  • Small stash pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Stretch-woven accessory pocket on shoulder strap
  • Sturdy top carry handle
  • Volume 2015 in³ (33 liters)

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


Backcountry.com

When you need a staple pack for school, a day hike, or just a trip to the beach, The North Face Recon Backpack ups the ante for comfort and durability. A 15-inch padded laptop sleeve protects the brains of the operation. Bomber nylon fabric combines with a breathable, air-channeled back panel, an angled bottom panel, and a mammoth-sized mesh pocket to make a comfortable, well-organized backpack. The Recon Backpack is clean enough for school usage, but tough and techy enough for day hikes.


SummitHut.com

The North Face Recon Pack is a sport daypack featuring Backsaver technology ideal for any sport adventure.

Features:

  • ***This product available for shipping in the United States only***
  • BackSaver bottom panel with compression
  • Comfortable padded Airmesh back panel
  • Dual stretch side water bottle pockets
  • Holds laptops 15 inches or smaller
  • Large front mesh drop pocket
  • Large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port
  • Reflective hits
  • Small stash pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Stretch-woven accessory pocket on shoulder strap
  • Sturdy top carry handle

Sierra Trading Post

Pack heavy books and supplies into The North Face's Recon backpack; there's even room in the main compartment to securely stow your laptop!

Features:

  • BackSaver bottom panel with compression straps
  • Capacity: 2015 cu.in.
  • Dimensions (HxWxD): 19x13x8"
  • Fits laptops: Up to 15"
  • Front top-zip pocket with organizer panel
  • Hydration port in the main compartment
  • Material: Nylon
  • Mesh front pocket and side water bottle pockets
  • Padded air mesh back straps
  • Visit our Backpack Guide
  • Waistbelt: Adjusts to 57"
  • Weight: 2 lb. 2 oz.

Massey's Outfitters

Avg Weight: 2 lbs 2 oz (965 g)
BackSaver bottom panel with compression
Comfortable padded Airmesh back panel
Dimensions: 19" x 13" x 8" (48 cm x 34.5 cm x 20 cm)
Dual stretch side water-bottle pockets
Fabric: 420D nylon, 1680D Ballistics
Large front mesh drop pocket
Large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port
Reflective hits
Small stash pocket with water-resistant zip
Stretch-woven accessory pocket on shoulder strap
Sturdy top carry handle
Style Number: ABKH
Volume: 2015 in3 (33 liters)


Zappos.com

Great bag for hiking or daily journeys.
Large front mesh pocket.
Padded laptop sleeve.
Back saver angled front panel.
Tuck away hip belt.
Laminated back panel with breathable mesh.
Small stash pocket with water resistant fabric and zipper closure.
Front compartment organizer.
Dual mesh side water bottle pockets.
Full top zipper closure.
Reflective material.
Volume: 30 liters.
Dimensions: 13 wide x 8 deep x 19 high.


Eastbay

The North Face Recon Backpack features a large main compartment with padded laptop sleeve and hydration port. Other pockets include front mesh drop-in pocket, small stash pocket, dual-side stretch water bottle pockets and stretchy accessory pocket on shoulder strap. Sturdy top carry handle and BackSaver bottom panel add comfort. 420 denier nylon. 19" x 13" x 8".


O2GearShop.com (Spring 2009)

This coveted daypack efficiently holds all your gear and keeps you organized whether you're using it to store goods that make you smarter, or stronger. Available in a variety of colors, this nylon pack is lightweight and durable for everyday use.s


Appalachain Outdoors

The Recon daypack efficiently holds all your gear and keeps you organized whether you're using it to store goods that make you smarter, or stronger. Available in a variety of colors, this nylon pack is lightweight and durable for everyday use.


Moosejaw

No description provided.

Access:top
Access Types:Top
Avg Weight:2 lbs 2 oz (965 g)
Bottom Access:No
Capacity:2015 cu in (33 liters)
Cargo Capacity:2015 cu. in.
Cell Phone Pocket/Sleeve:Yes
Dimensions:19" x 13" x 8" (48 cm x 34 cm x 20 cm)
Fabric:420D nylon, 840D nylon, Hypalon®
Fits laptop:15 inches
Frame Sheet:No
Front Access:No
Hydration Compatible:Yes
Laptop Pocket Dimensions:15in (38cm)
Laptop Size:15 in.
Laptop Sleeve Dimensions:14" x 11" x 2"
Load-lifter Straps:No
Manufacturer Warranty:Lifetime
Material:420D nylon / 1680D ballistics
Number of pockets:main compartment + 5 pockets
Organizer Panel:Yes
Other Electronics Pocket(S):2
Pack Fabric (Primary):420D nylon, 1680D ballistics
Padded Laptop Compartment:Yes
Pockets:[External] 1 front mesh, 1 front stash with water-resistant zip, 2 mesh water bottle
Primary Use:School
Recommended Use:School, work, hiking
Size:Large
Skateboard Carry:No
Spindriftcollar:No
Stays:None
Sternum Strap:Yes
Sunglasses Pocket, Lined:No
Suspension:Airmesh back panel, BackSaver bottom panel
Top Access:Yes
Torso Length:One Size
Type:Technical
Volume:2015 in³ (33 liters)
Waist Belt:No
Waist-belt:Yes
Weight:2 lbs 3 oz (1000 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 Recon Laptop BackpackThe North Face Recon Laptop Backpack$42.13 - $88.95
The North Face Recon Day PackThe North Face Recon Day Pack$88.95
The North Face Recon Backpack - Deep Water BlueThe North Face Recon Backpack - Deep Water Blue$84.99

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 Flyweight BackpackThe North Face Flyweight Backpack
Hiking & Camping > Backpacks
$44.95 - $49.00
The North Face JesterThe North Face Jester
Hiking & Camping > Backpacks
$34.10 - $55.00

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-001Deepwater-Basin-Blue-6D5Truckee-Green-Z38Truckee-Pink-Z62El-Rio-Blue-F95Cardinal-Molten-Red-87ECardinal RedEl Rio BlueZinc GrayBlackDeep Water BlueTruckee PinkTruckee GreenChai YellowChute GreenTuolumne BrownSaratoga GreenNight Camo BrownN/A
Night Camo Brown
Night Camo Brown
                  88.9588.953 More...
Chai Yellow
Chai Yellow
                  88.9588.952 More...
Old Bronze Yellow
Old Bronze Yellow
                  88.95
Chute Green
Chute Green
                  70.9579.9989.00
Truckee Green
Truckee Green
                  88.9588.955 More...
Saratoga Green
Saratoga Green
                  88.9588.956 More...
Deep Water Blue
Deep Water Blue
                  79.9984.99
Deep Water Blue / Basin Blue
Deep Water Blue / Basin Blue
                  88.9588.953 More...
Deepwater / Blue
Deepwater / Blue
                  59.9989.00
King Fisher / blue
King Fisher / blue
                  85.00
Deepwater Blue / Basin Blue
Deepwater Blue / Basin Blue
                  89.0089.0089.00
Depp Water / Basin
Depp Water / Basin
                  88.95
Black
Black
                  59.9579.9912 More...
El Rio Blue
El Rio Blue
                  88.9588.952 More...
Kingfisher Blue
Kingfisher Blue
                  70.9589.0089.00
Millennium Blue
Millennium Blue
          89.00       85.00
Sundust Yellow
Sundust Yellow
                  59.9970.95
Tuolumne Brown
Tuolumne Brown
                  88.9588.954 More...
Zinc
Zinc
                  88.95
Zinc Grey
Zinc Grey
                  88.9588.954 More...
Ashpalt Grey                  88.95
Black - 001                  59.99
Cardinal / Molten
Cardinal / Molten
                  88.95
Cardinal Red
Cardinal Red
                  84.9585.0089.00
Cardinal Red / Molten Red
Cardinal Red / Molten Red
                  79.9988.955 More...
Deep Water Blue / Basin                  88.95
Gypsy Pink
Gypsy Pink
                  88.95
Molten Red
Molten Red
      89.00           89.00
Truckee Pink
Truckee Pink
                  88.9588.953 More...
N/A88.9088.9088.9088.9088.9088.90 89.0089.0089.00 89.0089.0089.0089.0089.0089.0089.00 

Legend

  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Berg's Ski Shop
  •     - Rocky Mountain Trail
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)
  •     - Sierra Trading Post
  •     - Massey's Outfitters
  •     - The North Face
  •     - Zappos.com
  •     - Eastbay
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Spring 2009)
  •     - Ramsey Outdoor
  •     - Appalachain Outdoors
  •     - SummitHut.com
  •     - PeterGlenn
  •     - Paragon Sports
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - FogDog Sports

Notes:

Al's Sports offers this product at $71.99, but does not provide any color/size information.

The North Face Recon Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****42
****8
***1
**0
*1
To see how this product compares to others view Backpack Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Rating:****
Overall, the design is great for a school/commuter bag, but the flimsy nylon material would call for a price drop in my experienced opinion. I wouldn't recommend this for the trail. I have an old NF book pack from '95...it was a good bag, I carried it everywhere in high school and part of college and I bought the new Recon based off of my old bag. I'm disappointed in the nylon materials used for the body of the pack, especially for the price. The materials feel cheap, thin and flimsy...I can only hope it stands up to abuse better than I suspect it will. On the positive notes, the Recon is designed well for a good school/commuter bag, I wouldn't wear this on the trail...I have more technical packs for serious adventures. The organizer panel is nice...lots of slots, even a few padded squarish ones for your electronics. The organizer in my bag is a medium gray with red accents...the lighter color helps make items more viable. (I bought the "bittersweet brown" color). The outside pocket on the front is a great stash pocket...they say it will fit a bike helmet...I don't bike but will stash my stethoscope and a light jacket in there. "The North Face" logo is embroidered at the bottom, while the pack's name is screen printed off to the side. There are two loops directly below the logo...which I find pretty much useless on a school pack (but love them on technical packs). There's also an additional zippered pocket just above the large mesh one on the front...its medium size is good for snacks or a headlamp and other small tools. The inside is roomy enough. Forget it if you're trying to bring your laptop AND 2 inch binder along with a couple text books...the pack isn't deep enough. Although my 2 inch binder and medium sized texts seem to fit fine. There's an internal sleeve/pocket for a water bladder or laptop...my 17 inch can fit ok. The zippers are quality. Easy to open and close although the protective zipper flaps get in the way often. 2 mesh side pockets fit a regular nalgene bottle easily. Shoulder straps are ergonomic and made with a thin but dense foam. I was wearing a strapless top my first day with the pack and the straps chaffed my skin. The sternum strap IS adjustable. There is a stretchy pocket on your left shoulder which is too small for my sun glasses but would fit an ipod or cell phone nicely. Two elastic bands cross the shoulder straps as well...I guess you could clip your keys here or loop sunglasses under them. Back panel feels nice with its contoured mesh fabric. The hip belt is basically worthless, it's thin and cheap and would offer no support for the pack at all...I removed them completely. Compression straps at the sides and bottom, which I find extremely useful. The side straps are attached to some funky rubberized material, I wonder when/if it will rip.
MC at Zappos.com on 06/25/2009

Good Pack, Very Versatile

Rating:****

I bought this pack when I began taking the commuter train to this past summer. I have also used it cycling and plan to use it as a day pack for hiking. The mesh breathes very well in the summer heat, and I didn't get too warm with it on while cycling. There is plenty of space for additional books or binders with a laptop in the bag. The inside organizer is great and I love the outer mesh pocket as it can expand to hold very large and bulky items such as a bicycle helmet, clothes, etc. I was worried about the mesh breaking apart, but it has held up very well. I use the water bottle pockets for my gloves and hat in the winter. I just found out that the laptop pocket also functions as a pocket for a water bladder, with a hole for the tube coming through the top of the pack, this is a great feature. This pack is great to ride on a bike with, the breast clip and waist belt keep it from sliding.

My only complaints with this pack are that the reflective foam on the back of it is very delicate and scratches and cracks easily. Secondly, there is no where to tuck away the waist strap when you aren't using it, I just buckle it and do my best to wrap the loose ends around something. When the belt is being used, the loose ends are so long that they dangle. This is especially a problem on a bicycle.

TNFGUY at Backcountry.com on 01/07/2009

Comfortable and versatile

Rating:*****
I purchased the backpack for two uses: to haul school materials (primarily small books and a laptop); and to serve as a daypack for my weekend hiking trips and my summer work in the Chinese desert. I have not had a chance to use the bag on a hiking trip, but I have no doubts it will be comfortable and useful. The backpack carries a laptop better than any other backpack I've ever used, and the myriad pockets allow organization of small articles. The stretch webbing on the outside of the pack will hold a bike helmet, smelly gym clothes or vegetables from the farmer's market with ease. The side water bottle pockets are big enough for a standard plastic water bottle, but tall items (like my EMS thermos) may fall out. If you need to carry more than one textbook and a laptop computer, plus lunch and sundries, you should consider a larger-capacity backpack. The straps are very adjustable and easy to use - it's as close to a "one size fits all" as you can get in a backpack.
Jonah at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 09/24/2008

"Great pack!!!"

Rating:*****
I've been a fan of the Recon for years. I absolutely love the ample space it has for all your books, gear, food, or whatever you need to carry with you. I mostly use this for school as it has a padded laptop slot but I also use it for when I venture outdoors. It holds my climbing shoes, harness, biners, an extra pair of flip flops, bear spray, food and water, etc. very well. The mesh pocket on the outside is pretty big, the two water bottle holders on the sides come in handy when you need a place for your water bottle and another pouch to throw random stuff. The shoulder straps (one with a whistle) and back panel are pretty comfortable. All in all, an awesome pack. I'm hooked for life :)
Christine at Moosejaw on 05/27/2009

TNF Recon

Rating:*****

I bought this backpack for carrying my books around campus. I like the overall look of the pack and the functionality. The pockets are very well placed, which puts everything you need easily accessible. I also like the front mesh pocket, which provides many different uses. It can expand to hold large items, but is not in the way when it isn't needed. The ability to put a hydration bladder in it was also a strong reason for me buying this pack. The pack can hold several big college text books, binders, and calculators with out a problem. But when you aren't carrying much, the pack doesn't feel huge. It can carry a lot of stuff without being bulky and in the way.

eric3189 at Backcountry.com on 03/05/2009

"Stop reading the reviews and buy it already!"

Rating:*****
I shred backpacks like it was some weird hobby but the TNF Recon pack, for the last couple of years, has been a champ. Its been on city excursions, camping/day trips, biking, flight lines, and trips to the desert and has been great. I've overstuffed it with gear and lashed extra stuff (including 100ft extension cord reels and a bag of tools) on the outside and this mofo has always been up to the challenge (w/o need of repair!)! It fits my 16.4" laptop and can fit my 100oz Camelbak (not at the same time). Side pouches each can hold a 32oz bottle. This is my goto backpack and it will be yours (not that I'm giving you mine....go buy your own!)
Geoff at Moosejaw on 08/26/2009

"I love this backpack, and I'm glad I got it"

Rating:*****
I researched many backpacks before my 8-month long trip to India. I needed something spacious and durable, and also comfy on a small framed woman. The other woman specific bags I tried just were not as spacious. After a year of traveling all over, this backpack served it's purpose beautifully. The front mesh pocket is really roomy. I'm always afraid it's going to tear, but it's held up great so far. The two side pockets are great for my big water bottle, or for stuffing little knick-knacks and snacks in. The middle compartment has lots of nice pockets for pens, your cell phone, ipod, etc. There is a sleeve for a laptop which also came in handy.
Sapana at Moosejaw on 07/06/2009
Rating:*****
Exactly what I was looking for - I bought this bag because it has space for my laptop and will hold my nalgene water bottle. I haven't used it much yet, but it holds quite a bit of stuff and seems pretty comfortable. I am in college and plan to use it for a school backpack. Also, I am studying abroad next semester and it makes the perfect carry-on. Plenty of space for my laptop, cd player, a change of clothes, etc. It would also work when traveling light on weekend trips. I would definitely recommend this bag. Also, the shipping was very fast even during the holidays. I would buy from this site again.
Anonymous at Zappos.com on 12/29/2004

Keeps me organized

Rating:*****

I'm not that tidy of a guy, so this pack helps me organize my life! There is just about a pocket for everything and then some. Be creative, I'm sure you'll come up with a use for the storage. I no longer loose my phone or keys and I can carry quite a bit in this thing. I did once attempt to use it as a commuter pack while biking to work, it was just too hot for that (mind you that was in the middle of the summer). Attach a few carabiners to this pack and you'll be set!

John Hansen at Backcountry.com on 03/25/2009

Love this backpack

Rating:*****

I love this backpack. I use it both for work and fun. For work, my 15" MacBook Pro just barely fits in the special laptop pocket (no way a 17" MBP is going to fit), and there is plenty of room to store other stuff. For fun, I frequently use this backpack while alpine skiing. I don't think this backpack is technically water resistant (or waterproof), but so far, I have not had a problem with items inside getting wet when it is snowing like crazy. Not sure I would trust my MacBook Pro inside during a downpour.

brianguy at Backcountry.com on 03/11/2009

Negative Reviews:

Mierp Neep Weow

Rating:*
Would not recccommend, absolutly horrible
North Face vcould have done done better with this piece of merchandise.
Shanequa The Outdorsy Hood Rat at FogDog Sports on 03/08/2009

Neutral Reviews:

Rating:***
Not for heavy duty book/laptop carrying - Laptop compartment didn't provide full protection, parts of laptops with high gloss finish could still be exposed. The layer that divides the laptop is also flimsy. The backpack was not wide enough to house my 2 inch binder. I am going to return it. The style is awesome, however, it wasn't suitable for my use.
Noah G at Zappos.com on 09/08/2008