I found the best North Face deals in REI's sale section — here's 15 outdoor styles with up to 50% off
Right now, REI is knocking up to 50% off select North Face apparel. Although the brand is most notable for their winter apparel, The North Face is currently discounting styles for all seasons — including summer. You can snag shorts, t-shirts, lightweight jackets, backpacks and fleeces starting at just $22.
To take advantage of these incredible summer deals, keep on reading for all my favorite picks from The North Face sale at REI. And for even more ways to save, check out our The North Face discount codes page.
A classic ball cap never goes out of style, especially one that's designed to wick away sweat and keep you cool. Lightweight and durable, the adjustable rear strap should accommodate most head sizes. We also love the Shady Blue hue.
From hiking to running (and everything in between), this women's shirt is ready to put in the miles with its odor-resistant fabric and moisture-wicking technology. It will keep you dry and comfortable during just about any activity. It also includes a reflective heat-transfer logo on the chest and graphic on the lower back.
Slide into something a little more comfortable with these North Face sandals. Padding on top and contoured cushion below make these slides extremely comfortable. They're great for days on the go or when your feet are feeling a little sore.
Being sunburnt is never cool, but you know what is? This North Face brimmer hat. It features a sweat-wicking interior, an adjustable shock cord chin strap and UPF 40 sun protection.
The name of these shorts says it all! The Wander Shorts allow you to stay cool, comfortable and dry while exploring thanks to their sweat-wicking and water-repellent properties. They're also built with added stretch and tons of performance features.
Whether you're running on the track or running errands, The North Face Sunriser Shorts will keep you comfy. They feature a secure-zip pocket on the center-back of the waistband, as well as moisture-managing technology to keep you dry.
This versatile sweatshirt is ready for anything — pair it with shorts and head to the gym, throw on some joggers and wear it on the trails or even sport it with a pair of jeans around town. It's super comfortable and works as a great top layer on a cool day.
Whether you're hiking, playing golf or just hanging out, this polo shirt is built with stretchy, moisture-managing fabric for comfort when you're on the move. Plus, its anti-odor technology will help you stay confident on and off the course or trail. The shirt also features a soft feel and stand up collar.
This backpack features tons of compartments — including a laptop sleeve — and can even stand up on its own. Its padded shoulder straps offer comfort and it also has two grab handles on top making it convenient to open and provide a balanced carry. It's also endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association thanks to its comfortable FlexVent suspension system.
Named after a Peruvian peak, this ¼-zip, acts as a light yet warm barrier to the elements on chilly hikes. It's lightweight, meaning it's ideal for backpacking, climbing and other activities where weight saving is important. Plus, its bright blue hue is perfect for summer.
These are sure to be your go-to exploration pants. Their FlashDry materials offer enhanced moisture management to help keep you comfortable and added water repellency will help keep you dry.
Whether you're on or off the trails, you'll want to be wearing these versatile pants. They'll keep you dry and comfortable thanks to their Flashdry material and durable water repellent finish.
If you're a runner, you need this ¼-zip for the colder months. Not only does it help regulate body temperature with its innovative insulating fabric, it also actively moves moisture away from the body. You can snag this deal in five different colors right now.
I'm a sucker for a cozy hoody and the Canyonlands from The North Face fits the bill nicely. Constructed of soft, midweight fleece, it features numerous zippered pockets for all your valuables and lowkey branding.
The Willow Stretch Jacket is a practical jacket that moves with you. The stretchy material handles light rain and wind, making it useful for unpredictable weather. Easy to layer or tie around your waist when the sun comes out — the kind of jacket that's great for everyday use.
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Tom's Guide
9 hours ago
- Tom's Guide
I found the best North Face deals in REI's sale section — here's 15 outdoor styles with up to 50% off
North Face is an apparel brand that offers tons of must-haves for outdoor adventures and exploration — so if you're planning to hit the trails or wander around the great outdoors any time soon, it's worth checking out the latest North Face sale taking place at REI. Right now, REI is knocking up to 50% off select North Face apparel. Although the brand is most notable for their winter apparel, The North Face is currently discounting styles for all seasons — including summer. You can snag shorts, t-shirts, lightweight jackets, backpacks and fleeces starting at just $22. To take advantage of these incredible summer deals, keep on reading for all my favorite picks from The North Face sale at REI. And for even more ways to save, check out our The North Face discount codes page. A classic ball cap never goes out of style, especially one that's designed to wick away sweat and keep you cool. Lightweight and durable, the adjustable rear strap should accommodate most head sizes. We also love the Shady Blue hue. From hiking to running (and everything in between), this women's shirt is ready to put in the miles with its odor-resistant fabric and moisture-wicking technology. It will keep you dry and comfortable during just about any activity. It also includes a reflective heat-transfer logo on the chest and graphic on the lower back. Slide into something a little more comfortable with these North Face sandals. Padding on top and contoured cushion below make these slides extremely comfortable. They're great for days on the go or when your feet are feeling a little sore. Being sunburnt is never cool, but you know what is? This North Face brimmer hat. It features a sweat-wicking interior, an adjustable shock cord chin strap and UPF 40 sun protection. The name of these shorts says it all! The Wander Shorts allow you to stay cool, comfortable and dry while exploring thanks to their sweat-wicking and water-repellent properties. They're also built with added stretch and tons of performance features. Whether you're running on the track or running errands, The North Face Sunriser Shorts will keep you comfy. They feature a secure-zip pocket on the center-back of the waistband, as well as moisture-managing technology to keep you dry. This versatile sweatshirt is ready for anything — pair it with shorts and head to the gym, throw on some joggers and wear it on the trails or even sport it with a pair of jeans around town. It's super comfortable and works as a great top layer on a cool day. Whether you're hiking, playing golf or just hanging out, this polo shirt is built with stretchy, moisture-managing fabric for comfort when you're on the move. Plus, its anti-odor technology will help you stay confident on and off the course or trail. The shirt also features a soft feel and stand up collar. This backpack features tons of compartments — including a laptop sleeve — and can even stand up on its own. Its padded shoulder straps offer comfort and it also has two grab handles on top making it convenient to open and provide a balanced carry. It's also endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association thanks to its comfortable FlexVent suspension system. Named after a Peruvian peak, this ¼-zip, acts as a light yet warm barrier to the elements on chilly hikes. It's lightweight, meaning it's ideal for backpacking, climbing and other activities where weight saving is important. Plus, its bright blue hue is perfect for summer. These are sure to be your go-to exploration pants. Their FlashDry materials offer enhanced moisture management to help keep you comfortable and added water repellency will help keep you dry. Whether you're on or off the trails, you'll want to be wearing these versatile pants. They'll keep you dry and comfortable thanks to their Flashdry material and durable water repellent finish. If you're a runner, you need this ¼-zip for the colder months. Not only does it help regulate body temperature with its innovative insulating fabric, it also actively moves moisture away from the body. You can snag this deal in five different colors right now. I'm a sucker for a cozy hoody and the Canyonlands from The North Face fits the bill nicely. Constructed of soft, midweight fleece, it features numerous zippered pockets for all your valuables and lowkey branding. The Willow Stretch Jacket is a practical jacket that moves with you. The stretchy material handles light rain and wind, making it useful for unpredictable weather. Easy to layer or tie around your waist when the sun comes out — the kind of jacket that's great for everyday use.
Buzz Feed
4 days ago
- Buzz Feed
26 Target Products To Look Put Together On Hot Days
A maxi dress for days where your noggin is incapable of forming a single thought, let alone an outfit. The foolproof equation goes as follows: this dress, sunnies, and your favorite purse. Promising review: "It is so easy to throw on. Dress it up with heels or dress it down with sneakers and a hat!" —Cait Alexander Price: $25 (available in sizes XS–4X and in two colors) An A-line mini you'll want to wear on hot, hot, hot, and humid days when the idea of slithering into pants makes you feel somehow even more sweaty. Promising review: "Precious little dress! Easily dressed up or down! Super cool for a hot summer!" —TeePrice: $20 (available in sizes XXS–4X) A tiered maxi that's about to become your "going out" outfit, and by going out, I mean heading to dinner at 7 p.m. and arriving home promptly by 10 p.m. to complete your nighttime skincare routine and watch another true-crime doc. Price: $35 (available in sizes XS–4X and in two colors) An Evian facial spray for a spritz of ~cool~ on even the hottest days. This hydrates, sets makeup, refreshes makeup, and gives you skin a dewy glow, all in a second. Promising review: "I'm currently eight months pregnant and I love having this spray in my purse. A lifesaver in the Colorado summer heat." —BurchfieldPrice: $10.39+ A cropped sports bra you'll wear to the gym, the coffee shop, and while rewatching Pretty Little Liars for the 90th time even though you're well past high school graduation and the plot, in hindsight, is pretty all over the damn place. This sports bra is moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Promising review: "I have this top in several colors and it fits great. Good for low-impact workouts and casual everyday wear. Washes well." —JL Price: $20 (available in sizes XS–4X and in six colors) A drawstring dress because hot temps mean that leggings are on pause. Say hello to your cuter (but equally as comfortable) new everyday staple. Promising review: "Cutest little throw and go dress! Super comfortable, stretchy material and the length is perfect for a busy mom!" —CyndiPrice: $35 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in four colors) A cotton gauze shirtdress I'd like to wear on a boat trip that hops from one tropical island to the next. My flight is not booked, (and I'm actually probably not going) but I'll add this to my shopping cart in the name of hope. Promising review: "Love this top as a pool cover-up, a top to throw on with jean shorts to run to the store in the evening, and a piece to elevate a basic. The fabric is lightweight and the shirt is so versatile." —Aloha mama catPrice: $25 (available in sizes XS–XL and in three colors) A puff-sleeve dress giving garden party vibes, perfect for the outdoor dining reservation you've been furiously checking (and rechecking) the weather app for. Price: $24.50 (originally $35; available in sizes XS–4X and in two colors) A pair of breathable pull-on pants for the comfort connoisseur who wants to feel comfy (but not drenched in sweat) through October. Price: $18.75 (originally $25; available in sizes 1X–3X) A mesh dress in a summer-approved hue that will serve as my personal motivation to leave the comfort of my AC-filled living room to get the heck outside (plus, the mesh means optimal airflow). Price: $36 (available in sizes XS–4X and in two colors) An E.l.f. setting spray formulated for a dewy, hydrating finish thanks to an impressive quartet: aloe, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and green tea seed oil. This stuff helps makeup last — even through sweaty, sticky, humid summer days. Promising review: "This stuff is magic in a bottle. Keeps my makeup on all night and I don't get oily." —KeyPrice: $10 A rib-knit maxi fated to win the title of ~favorite little black (or green! or striped!) dress~ as soon as you rip open the packaging and slip it on. Promising review: "Absolutely adore this dress! Fits true to size and can be dressed up or down. Bought it in several colors because I liked it so much." —Danielle T. Price: $20 (available in sizes XS–4X and in five colors) A cotton gauze maxi skirt vying for the title of your summer uniform. Repeat after me: tank, sandals, skirt. You're officially ready to go for any occasion. Promising review: "Love this skirt! It's bright white with lightweight fabric. The style is timeless." —SN310 Price: $30 (available in sizes XS–4X) A tube romper for a pants-less (and far less sweaty) twist on the leggings you live in four out of five seasons of the year. Price: $11.25 (originally $15; available in sizes XXS–4X and in four colors) A ribbed tank one can pair with pretty much everything in their closet for a summer-approved 'fit: maxi skirts, wide-leg trousers, skinny jeans. The list goes on. Price: $8 (available in sizes XS–4X and in nine colors) A pair of poplin shorts that I encourage you to wear on a random Tuesday in an effort to make boring weekdays feel like they're being spent in the south of France — not *insert landlocked state here.* Price: $30 (available in sizes XS–4X and in two colors) A moisture-wicking exercise dress I'm personally filing under "things to wear when I'm running errands, then immediately meeting my friends for brunch plans after." Promising review: "Super soft and and the built-in bra actually does a great job holding in DDD bust. Definitely recommend!" —LashesForDaysPrice: $35 (available in sizes XS—XL and in three colors) Some gauzy pull-on pants with a tailored fit, perfect for the office and made with a lightweight fabric. They're a shoe-in for title of "only thing I wear" through October. Price: $30 (available in sizes XS–4X and in four colors) A Sexy Hair volumizing hairspray that provides humidity resistance for up to 72 hours, maintaining sleek all-day hold in the thick of summer. Frizz? Who's that? Promising review: "Held all day long in 110+ degree heat without any primer." —Helizabeth Price: $12.59+ A sleeveless tank dress so lovely, I'm mildly tempted to change out of my work-from-home attire and dip my toe back into the art of dressing up on a Monday. Price: $30 (available in sizes XS–4X and in three colors) A jersey pajama set because you've been wearing the same ratty rubber duck pajamas since high school and perhaps (perhaps!) it's time for an upgrade, one you can also wear out for a morning walk. Promising review: "I LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS! Sooo comfortable and doesn't feel suffocating." —Semma Price: $20 (available in sizes XXS–2X and in three colors and patterns) An open-back eyelet A-line dress ideal for day trips to the beach *and* warm weather vacays in which the only decisions that need to be made involve gelato flavors (the right answer is always classic chocolate). Price: $40 (available in sizes XS–4X and in two colors) A relaxed fit jumpsuit with wide legs for anyone who detests having to scrounge up a matching top and bottom. Wear this with heels for fancy dinners or sneakers for runs to the coffee shop. Price: $40 (available in sizes XS–4X and in four colors and patterns) A lightweight pajama set embellished with subtle lace detailing, the ideal Netflix marathon attire. Promising review: "I have purchased at least four different color variations of these pajamas. They look lovely with a touch of lace detail. The fabric is so soft and gentle. They are so amazing to sleep in. I would keep purchasing them. I hope Target brings them back every year in new colors." —NOCPrice: $11.25 (originally $15; available in sizes 1X–4X and in three colors) A pair of wide leg pants for both beachside traipsing and/or dinner with your favorite wedges. There's no right or wrong answer here. Price: $28 (available in sizes XS–4X and in two colors) A wrap dress simple enough to be worn everyday, but with gorgeous features that make it stand out among the rest: wrap styling and adorable pink stripes. Price: $30 (available in sizes XS–4X)
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Yahoo
Students Can't Stop Raving About This $17 Best-Selling Laptop Backpack on Amazon
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Going everywhere from lectures and football games to an after-school job, a quality backpack for college is a must. It needs to comfortably fit a laptop, textbooks and notepads while looking stylish and feeling comfortable when trekking across campus. The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tested over 60 backpacks to find the best options for high school and college students. Lab analysts test backpacks in the Lab and have real students try them to rate how comfortable they are to wear. We evaluated each pack's storage capacity, ease of carrying when fully loaded, accessibility of pockets, material durability and organizational features. We also surveyed current college students and recent alumni to learn more about the features they look for when backpack shopping and which styles are currently Commuter Laptop Backpack We first tested this popular The North Face backpack more than 10 years ago — it was a top performer then, and it continues to impress us. ✔️ The bag is super durable, holding up to abrasion, water-resistance and drop tests in our Lab. Reviewers have shared that the nylon and polyester blend material has held up to years of use, from freshmen year of high school to senior year of college. The Borealis doesn't have a flat base, so it's easy to store when not in use, but it's more challenging to load when empty. ✔️ It's comfortable to wear and keeps your belongings organized. There is a lot of padding and a sternum strap as well as a detachable waist strap. The Borealis stands out for including thoughtful features, like a fleece-lined zipper pocket for glasses and a front bungee system that can hold a jacket as the weather changes. Plus, its larger size and separate laptop compartment mean it can hold everything you need for a full day of classes. ✔️ This pack's design is multi-functional while looking sleek. Our survey respondents said they loved how versatile North Face backpacks are too, wearing them "hiking, traveling, going to classes and teaching." Available in 17 colors, this style also touts reflective features and a whistle for safety. RELATED: The Best Travel Backpacks 99.00 at Laptop Backpack After researching hundreds of backpacks, this Matein backpack is the best value, costing a fraction of what most college backpacks retail for. ✔️ It costs just $22. Most quality backpacks run $100 or more, but this popular style is currently on sale for $22 — and boasts thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon. ✔️ Handy features make this pack great for school and travel. This affordable pack includes useful extras like an anti-theft lock, a padded laptop compartment and a built-in USB port so that you can charge your phone on the go (just note that you'll need to add your own portable battery). Plus, the ample padding prevents this pack from feeling like it's constantly digging into your shoulders. ✔️ Although lightweight, it's a bit flimsy. It weighs just about 1.5 pounds, which is notably less than other featured packs. The material isn't as sturdy feeling as other tested packs and testers reported some wear issues with extended use. $21.99 at Carry Laptop Pack, 36L GH pros have been recommending L.L. Bean backpacks for decades. This upgraded pack is ideal for high school students. ✔️ It's spacious interior includes enough volume for bulky items while having organizational features like smaller pockets and pouches. The laptop sleeve is padded to keep your tech protected. There's a stretchy water bottle holder on each side along with a front bungee cord to hold an extra layer of clothing. ✔️ The ergonomic padded shoulder straps and a chest and waist strap provide ultimate comfort and support. The back panel is also padded and covered in a mesh fabric for breathability too. ✔️ The design is specially made for people 13+ years old, making it a great choice for high school students. The durable yet lightweight nylon ripstop is currently only available in three neutral shades. The brand also sells matching lunchboxes and accessories to complete the look. $99.00 at Adaptive Backpack A standard backpack doesn't always work for everyone, especially if you have a disability or limited mobility that prevents you from carrying something on your back. With JanSport's newest line of adaptive backpacks, you can adjust the packs to fit your needs, thanks to their tangle-proof shoulder straps that can be aligned to fit a variety of mobility devices. ✔️ Additional handles make this pack easier to maneuver. This pack has a shorter height to make it easier to reach items at the bottom and so it fits nicely on different mobility devices. It also features longer zipper pulls, but one tester with limited grip strength found them challenging to pull. ✔️ It includes the features you need in a school backpack like a 15-inch laptop sleeve (however, it's not padded), two dedicated side pockets for water bottles and a front organizational pocket for pens and pencils. ✔️ Testers all reported that it was easy to attach to their wheelchair or scooter. "I strapped the backpack to the tiller of my scooter and the extra straps on the body of the bag made it very easy to grab and maneuver," said one tester. "The small straps with clasps made it easy to fasten." An online reviewer shared, "It has plenty of room and pockets. It straps easily and securely to my chair, so I can carry on with my daily activities hassle-free." RELATED: Best Adaptive Clothing Brands $70.00 at Laptop Backpack Deluxe Taking you from class to the airport and everywhere in between, this Timbuk2 backpack is a true jack of all trades. ✔️ It has a separate padded laptop compartment that fits a larger laptop than most backpacks on our list do. While most packs can only fit a 15-inch laptop, this backpack can accommodate a 17-inch laptop. To keep everything super organized, it also features two more internal sleeves, convenient front-zippered stash pockets and numerous pockets throughout. ✔️ For ergonomic support, there's generous padding on the back and shoulder straps and an optional chest strap. The compression straps and a luggage sleeve offer extra convenience while traveling. ✔️ Testers applauded its sleek, masculine look that fits it all without bulk. One GH analyst uses this backpack daily, carrying his laptop, gym clothes and everything he needs for the work day. He especially appreciates the built-in luggage sleeve, so the backpack can sit on top of his carry-on suitcase when traveling. Note that this pick is available in a limited range of dark colors. $169.00 at Daypack 26L Patagonia is known for travel and camping packs, but the brand's school backpacks are also top notch. They feature the same durable materials with designs perfect for students. ✔️ Ergonomic straps offer proper support. Carrying too heavy of a load can put intense strain on your shoulders and back, leading to chronic pain over time, but you can distribute the weight better with a chest strap and padded shoulder straps, like those included on this backpack. The straps and back of the pack feature mesh for improved ventilation. ✔️ This pack has an impressive 26L interior with a sleek look that doesn't appear bulky. It includes a padded laptop sleeve that's removable to use elsewhere too. In our tests, we appreciated all of the convenient pockets and the stretchy water bottle side pockets to accommodate larger bottles, but there was less internal organization overall than other backpacks. ✔️ Testers (even ones with back pain) found this pack comfortable to carry when full. "This backpack has saved my back," reported one tester with chronic back pain. She said this was the only backpack she could wear comfortably for hours because of the adjustable chest strap for support. $109.00 at XL Backpack If you are looking for something simple without all the extra frills that often accompany most packs, this streamlined yet stylish backpack from Herschel may be for you. ✔️ The classic design and shape is versatile for any occasion. It has one large compartment with a laptop sleeve, a front zippered pocket for items you need to access quickly and a side water bottle holder. Note that this pack lacks a luggage sleeve. ✔️ The long-lasting exterior fabric is sold in 18 colors (from the brand directly), including both neutrals and bold hues to showcase your personality. The durable exterior proved to be abrasion-resistant in our tests. Many testers reported that their Herschel backpacks stayed in great condition for years! $65.00 at Daypack When heading to a gym on campus, carry everything you need with this lightweight pack from Osprey. ✔️ It's spacious enough to hold workout clothes and school supplies. The Daylite can fit two water bottles in the side pockets and schoolwork with the built-in laptop sleeve. ✔️ The compression straps help keep smelly items separate. It can hold sneakers or a sweatshirt in the front of the backpack, separate from the rest of the interior. We like that you can handwash this pick, but we wish it were machine washable for easier cleaning. If you're a student-athlete and need something bigger than a backpack, we recommend checking out our gym bag round-up for larger options. ✔️ You can also easily carry this pack longer distances, thanks to the chest and hip strap that add support. There's mesh in the straps and back to prevent overheating, even after an intense gym sesh. $52.95 at Backpack 22L Whether you're headed to class or the gym, this sporty backpack from Lululemon was a favorite among testers for its lightweight feel and simple design. ✔️ The stylish backpack is available in classic and bold shades. Testers liked its sleek materials that one said "looked cuter than other backpacks." It's currently available in seven colors, including bright pink, dark green and black. ✔️ This backpack has a roomy interior but lacks certain handy features. It includes a laptop sleeve, a front zippered pocket and two side water bottle or umbrella holders, but it doesn't have a luggage sleeve. ✔️ The pared-down design makes it great to use as a bag for classes or workouts. While it lacks organizational features, the spacious interior allows you to carry bulky items like sneakers and other fitness gear easily. When not in use, this pack easily compresses flat for easy storage. $78.00 at You'll get two bags in one with the convertible Rowledge backpack from Lo & Sons. ✔️ This bag has an innovative two-in-one design. The backpack straps tuck away, so you can carry it by its top handles for a more professional look. The sleek material was also easy to wipe clean in our evaluations. ✔️ There's an organizational insert with pockets and compartments, great for keeping smaller items organized and accessible — that's removable too in case you need to carry larger items. ✔️ Bring this bag to both internships and job interviews as a tote and then to class as a backpack. Because of its multifunctionality, this bag is the most expensive pick in our roundup. $339.50 at Backpack We love Dagne Dover because the brand offers trendy purses, totes and carry-on bags that are both cute and functional. ✔️ This neoprene backpack is sporty yet stylish, making it perfect for anyone who needs to carry school supplies and gym clothes — the included shoe bag even keeps your stinky sneakers separate. The design also works well for an overnight trip. ✔️ The Dakota backpack has tons of interior and exterior pockets to keep you organized – and even a hidden one on top to stash your phone. It's available in nine colors and three sizes; the Large size is best for students. In our testing, we noticed that the neoprene fabric did show some pilling with extensive use. $230.00 at Pack Backpack With a look that has stood the test of time, this quintessential backpack from Jansport comes with a 15-inch internal laptop sleeve and ample room for binders and notebooks. ✔️ The classic design also comes in a wide range of color and fabric options, including corduroy materials, floral prints and embroidered designs. And you can't beat the price — some colorways are even on sale for $45 right now! ✔️ It has a reinforced suede bottom for durability plus padding at the back and shoulder straps for comfort while carrying a heavy load. In Lab evaluations, it stood out for being lightweight yet sturdy, proving it's practical for year-round and repeated use. Note that the laptop sleeve isn't padded. ✔️ Testers especially liked the roomy front pocket, which makes it easy to grab essential items like sunglasses, pens and a calculator — it even features a built-in key ring. $59.99 at Laptop Backpack Showcase your personality on campus with this trendy backpack from Calpak. ✔️Available in 20 colors, including shiny metallics, classic neutrals and bright neons, this backpack has a look for everyone. ✔️ Although highly organized, it lacks substantial padding. There's a side zippered pocket for an umbrella, a water bottle holder and plenty of zippered organizational pockets. The separate, padded laptop compartment can accommodate a 15-inch laptop, but the brand offers a 17-inch version for $148 (note this style is available in fewer colors). We wish the straps were a bit more padded. ✔️ It's great for travel too. Testers also liked the luggage trolley sleeve to take this bag on the go. Complete the set with a matching Luka Duffel and Luka Belt Bag. $138.00 at CalpakReNew Transit Backpack This chic backpack from Everlane shuts with a magnetic flap over the top to keep everything secure. ✔️ It's made of 100% recycled polyester with a water-repellent finish in five neutral colors. The zipper teeth are the only element of this bag that's not made from recycled materials. ✔️ The slim design has excellent organization. There's a main compartment and a zippered laptop compartment that can hold a 15-inch device. Its organizational pockets include an internal and external water bottle holder, front zippered pockets and inside pouches. Plus, it even has a back strap to fit on top of a carry-on suitcase for easy traveling. $118.00 at Laptop Swedish brand Fjallraven's simple backpack style has been around since 1978 — and this updated version is better suited for college and high school students. ✔️ We love the classic look and versatile design with an added laptop pocket. It can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, which is impressive for the pack's slim profile. This pick is sold in six fun color options such as yellow, teal, cobalt and grey. ✔️ When your back needs a break, you can carry this backpack by the handles on top, which also snap together for easier toting. It's best suited for lighter loads because the straps have less padding than other picks. ✔️ The top unzips fully around the sides for easier packing and unpacking. The whole pack keeps its shape when in use, but also goes completely flat for convenient storage. $119.95 at we test college backpacks When testing backpacks for students, we evaluate abrasion resistance, strap strength and tear strength as well as the amount of padding on the straps and weight when empty. We pack each backpack with standard packing loads for different age groups to ensure each bag will fit everything they need. In our most recent test, we evaluated over 60 different backpacks to make these selections. To find the best backpacks for college students, we surveyed current students and recent alumni to learn more about what they specifically look for when shopping as well as their recommendations for current popular picks. Here, Associate Textiles Lab Director Emma Seymour, loads samples into an abrasion tester to evaluate fabric durability. Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine evaluates a backpack's shape, organizational components and laptop compartment to score the bag's overall design features. What to look for when shopping for college backpacks After analyzing tons of feedback from our panel and conducting extensive Lab testing, we determined the most important features to look out for before buying: ✔️ Laptop sleeves keep your laptop protected on the go. Confirm the bag can fit your laptop's dimensions before purchasing. ✔️ Organization systems such as zippered pouches or pen pockets are nice to have. Testers especially liked water bottle holders (stretchy ones can fit larger bottles!). ✔️ Straps that are curved and padded for comfort and support keep things comfortable. Chest and hip straps can offer better weight distribution for improved comfort. ✔️ Fabric made of high-denier polyester or nylon have better durability. They are also more abrasion-resistant. ✔️ A build that's tall and narrow helps evenly distribute weight. Wide backpacks can cause back pain. ✔️ Function is essential. Of course, a stylish backpack is fun, but it's better to choose one that will work well with your routine rather than for how it trust Good Housekeeping? Emma Seymour is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab where she oversees Lab and consumer tests for all types of backpacks. She evaluated the above backpacks in the Lab and coordinated consumer testing. When she attended Cornell University to study fiber science, she always carried a Herschel backpack to bag shopping guides You Might Also Like 67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper
