Customer Reviews The North Face Women's Recon

I think I actually ordered mine from Amazon, but only after getting serious to buy it and wanting a particular color that Zappos didn't carry anymore. But I love Zappos, and I wanted to review it here as well since this is where I had originally found it. I went on a new backpack search after purchasing a Jansport for a long trip a couple years back, and ultimately being disappointed by the design. The bag was fine overall, but there is a fine line between organization and complicated where my wishes are concerned. This NF Recon seemed to fix all those issues. I pulled the trigger and got this bag in the offwhite/gray and neon yellow. Just recently I took a trip and used the bag to get a feel for how I will use it later on a long trip this summer... turns out I was right (and so were the other reviewers). I love it. It is so comfortable!! It has the back padding like other backpacks do, but unlike my Jansport, it didn't ever feel like I had a board on my back. It was more flexible, and something about the fabric or design kept it from feeling too hot/stifling. I found myself being the person who sat on buses or in airports with my backpack left on! My favorite feature is that you can tuck the waist straps away when not in use. I rarely travel in such a way that requires those, so I was thankful to have one less thing dangling off of me. Also on that note, the chest straps are contoured so well and the attachment clips aren't super dangly. They didn't bother me at all. The middle pocket with organizational pockets came in handy. It had a couple more pockets than I really needed, but nothing so excessive that it was in the way. I don't usually travel with anything bigger than an ipad mini so all of my electronics fit well into that "Middle" pocket (kindle, ipad mini, and pouch with headphones/chargers), leaving the large compartment for extra clothes or shoes (packed in cubes). I used the smaller pocket for sunglasses, wallet/ticket/easy access pieces, and the slip pocket was mostly kept empty but I did store a crossbody/clutch purse there. Fit perfectly and worked very well in that manner. Only complaints were: 1. the clip on the front slip pocket always managed to break my nail. not sure if that was more me or the design of the clip. I do love that pocket though! 2. the side pockets, which I used for my water bottle, were a tight squeeze. it was a contoured bottle that I used, and other designs might fit better, but it was kind of bothersome. I was able to clip the bottle to the outside just fine (which I didn't like), or tuck it in the big compartment but it was less convenient. I'm REALLY excited about using this backpack later this summer for a big trip to see how it holds up. I love the colors, and had trouble deciding. If not for the price, I'd probably get a few others. You can't go wrong with this backpack!

Great size for school books!

the perfect work backpack! a great neutral color. would buy 10/10 times!

Nice design and great color!

I love that I can fit everything I need for a flight in this bag and don't need to also carry a purse. It's also a beautiful color.

I bought this for traveling so I didn't need a purse and personal bag. I can fit everything needed for my trip and have it easily accessible. The backpack is comfortable to wear and fits everything I need, including my laptop or tablet.

This is a great durable backpack. Love it!

Perfect size for my travels with laptop, color is even better than it looks on picture! Absolutely happy with my purchase.

Obviously it's great, it's a north face bag. Bought this for my daughter, my old bag is like 10 years old and still works great.

My daughter loves it. It is the trend in private schools, every student owes one or more.

We love the recon backpacks! Spacious, organized, and comfortable!

Bought this for my 27 yo daughter to be used as her travel backpack. It is perfect and fits everything including her laptop!

Great backpack. Bought it for my college daughter and she loves it.

Love the color

AMAZING - fits everything and great for flying

This bag is perfect for light travel, day to day, and carrying all of the essentials. It fits well for walking around the city, and I love the color!

Love it! Can easily fit my laptop and love the pockets to help keep everything organized!

My daughter loves this backpack! holds everything needed for college school.

Had my last recon backpack for over 15 years, didn't even really need a new one but after debating for about a year I finally got a new one. This backpack exceeded my expectations. I was skeptical before because I didn't think the new style was anything like the old style (i.e. the front mesh pocket). I'm so glad it's style mimics the older version, and is more practical and discreet.

This is my second north face backpack. Had the first one for 15 years and took it all over Europe. Love this product.

Purchased this backpack for my daughter who just started middle school. We both loved the color, especially since we are entering winter, which is usually dark and gloomy. The straps and the bag itself is very sturdy and definitely holds all the texts books and other things she has to carry around.

The backpack is very comfortable, with plenty of space for school supplies. The back cushioning system works very well, the chest and waist straps balance the weight, and I love its generous capacity.. This women's model can be used by children as it is designed for narrow shoulders, the size fits well for my 12-year-old son. You can buy this model if you need a backpack that isn't too big but still has enough space. It also has a unisex style. You just have to choose the colors you like, since the style adapts very well to men, women, and children at least 11 or 12 years old. I will continue buying this brand; I really liked it.

My daughter loved her backpack.

Well designed, well built, roomy, comfortable to carry. Holds a 15 inch laptop with care. Some colors are nice but look easy to get dirty.

Great