The North Face Jester Reviewed in 2025

A Useful, Comfortable Backpack

This is a workhorse backpack that ticks every box for an everyday pack for work or school. Some won’t like the bungee cords, understandably so. Luckily, TNF Vault is the exact same bag with lash straps instead.

At first glance, we like the bright colors and soft texture of the Jester. We’re testing out the deep green with fluorescent orange compression bungee. The back and shoulder straps are great for carrying heavy loads and the padding is solid.

On design and comfort, there are many virtues shared across many other TNF packs. The Jester takes the simplicity of these best practices and represents it comfortably well.

The mesh water bottle pockets on each side are large enough, but there is no extra compression or securing straps, like on The North Face’s other monster, the Borealis. The ergonomic and padded double carry handle gives it extra points for comfort, even weight distribution and easy grabbing.

The laptop compartment fits a 15’’ device but it’s lacking a bit of padding on the internal side, unlike the Borealis, which offers padding inside and out. The main compartment is large and fits a pair of shoes and a small towel even with a computer.

The front pocket works well for pens, power banks, items like keys and smartphones. There’s an additional internal zipped pocket, but it doesn’t open or close to well when filled up.

A Practical Jester: Pockets & Cords

This Jester comes with several different features, not unlike most of The North Face backpacks. In the front, the bungee-compression system is expandable and adjustable, for easy stashing of a jacket or securing a yoga mat.

Some people might not appreciate the bungee cords. It’s not going to be necessary for a lot of urban lifestyles. That’s where the Vault will offer a more streamlined look. The daisy chains on the Vault still might not be useful for a lot of people, but the aesthetic might be more appealing.

As for the look of the Jester, the heathered material offers 360-degree reflectivity against the elements, including the sun, there is a sternum strap with adjustable rails.

The 360-degree reflectivity is made from 300D and 600D polyester, with a non-PFC durable water-repellent finish. Its heathered weaving gives its fabric a multileveled look.

It is a one-size pack with a soft feel, weighing only 1.63 lbs (790g). Check out the women’s version for more petite body shapes.

Capacity and Comfort

28 liters might not seem like much. Most people who don’t need to carry a lot beyond a jacket, a lunch, a water bottle and a laptop won’t need more.

Its materials are mostly recycled and it is certified by the American Chiropractic Association if you are concerned about everyday use on your back.

The padded back features a flexible panel that is comfortable and both back and lumbar panels are highly breathable.

When cycling or hiking, there is a clear advantage to having a design that avoids using the spine to support the burden. In real-life terms that translates to a more balanced support that won’t strain the shoulders and to minimized sweating.

These zippers need to be fastened all the way to one side and not meet up in the middle of the compartment, as that can result in the bag accidentally unzipping when in use.

What’s Inside TNF Jester 

This everyday backpack features a sleeve for a 15’’ laptop in its main compartment and has a few more convenient pockets. On each side, there are mesh water bottle pockets.

A smaller but functional pocket is placed in the front of the bag. Inside, four mesh pockets are great for keeping smaller items. That’s a useful feature for thumb drives, power banks or even Pokemon cards.

There is also a key clip to secure your keychain inside the pocket.

The second zipped pocket inside is convenient to have for extra organization.

There are also several attachment points on the Jester, making it possible to hook up gear. These give the Jester a bit of a daypack profile if necessary.

WATER RESISTANCE

The Jester pack is not waterproof, but it is very water resistant. Its materials have a rating 2 on the water-resistance scale, which means in practice that it’ll survive 15 minutes in the rain without getting flooded.

It can withhold a drizzle or a splash, but anything longer than 15 minutes of serious rainfall will get through with humidity first, followed by threatening moisture levels after half an hour.

Waterproof backpacks will withstand downpours indefinitely, but have their own compromises on convenience.

Price and Value

The Jester is very fairly priced. The North Face brand is known for its durable and practical products, which usually means it’ll last several years as a daily driver. It comes at a lower price than the Borealis, with a few extra features.

Compared to a lot of similar packs, including everything from the Timbuk2 Spire 2.0 to Stubble & Co. Roll Top, the Jester’s stiffer back supports are more comfortable during more active use.

The 360-degree reflectivity gives it extra points, but you might want to invest in a waterproof cover to ensure you have better protection from the elements.

Do We Recommend the Jester?

For its capacity, size and features, the Jester is a good choice for everyday commutes and carrying a laptop with comfort. The back panel also makes a good case for use as a casual daypack for shorter hikes. Unlike the Borealis, there’s no port for a hydration pack hose, but that’s not what this bag is intended for.

The Jester’s main compartment does not offer additional storage options besides the laptop sleeve, but it makes up for that with its smaller, well-structured front pocket with multiple compartments.

Look around the bus and on the street and you’ll probably spot a backpack with an open pocket due to two zippers sliding open. This isn’t a minus as much as it is a bad habit for owners. Just zip the bag shut properly and everyone’s happy.

Overall, the price is justified for The North Face Jester. The popularity speaks for itself and our experience confirms its utility while cycling and as a daily drive.