The North Face Recon Backpack - Padded Laptop Compartment, External Pockets

I've owned several Recon backpacks, and this is the best one yet. It has a great variety of pockets and plenty of volume to store everything from laptops to sunglasses. I especially appreciate the large mesh pocket in front as well as the side storage on the outside for water bottles. The problem with previous Recon models was that the mesh pockets on the sides for water bottles would tear and wear out easily. This time, they made the water bottle side pockets with a sturdier material, with a smaller elastic part on the side to expand to accommodate larger water bottles. I took it to the top of a 14er in Colorado last week, and it performed just fine.

This is my first North Face pack. I bought it to replace a 20 year old tactical pack from another company. So far the quality is exactas the reviews and reputation have stated. I now work as a substitute teacher and this bag has all the features and space I need for everything I carry on a daily basis.

I enjoy the design improvement on the Recon 30L. The water bottle pockets have been made deeper and stronger. The front mesh pocket nicely overlaps with the small zipper pocket, protecting a place where I like to keep valuables. One weakness: The way I like to store some items makes the smaller middle pocket overweighted so the pack is less able to self-stand.

Have been using it as my daily backpack for work for the past three weeks. No complaints, a high quality backpack. My previous backpack was also a North Face backpack, and lasted five years of daily use.

I love this backpack for traveling. It has lots of convenient pockets and zippered areas. The side water bottle pocket is adjustable which is awesome.

I bought this bag to replace my hotshot from 20 years ago and I hope this bag lasts just as long and more. There are tons of pockets and great for commuting as I store my laptop and iPad in the back.

I bought the Recon Backpack for my son, and he loves it. It has plenty of space for a laptop, books, and daily essentials, with great organization to keep everything easy to find. The padded straps and breathable back panel make it comfortable to carry all day, even when it's full. It's very durable, holds up well in bad weather, and is perfect for everyday college use. Highly recommend.

My husband loves the color of this backpack and all of the pockets that he can store things in. He carries his for work and for play. He has plenty of loops to clip some of his extras on, loves the way the bag holds its shape and the design is tough as nails. He is not gentle on his gear so this will last him a long time! Absolutely recommend!

Excellent backpack for short and long trips to carry personal items. What I like most about TNF backpacks is that they are larger than others we find elsewhere. I walked for several hours with it and my back breathed very well, and I didn't feel any pain. I recommend it.

My son loves the backpack. Our other 3 children have the same pack. We bought them each a pack for college and they have lasted incredibly well.