The North Face Borealis Sling Bag Gardenia White Dark Heather

Our review of the North Face Borealis Sling Bag finds it best for urban commuters and travelers who want a compact, well-organized carry option without the bulk of a full backpack. The sling delivers the single biggest benefit of practical organization in a small package: a padded strap, multiple secure-zip pockets and a tablet sleeve let daily essentials stay accessible yet protected. For anyone who values easy airport movement, quick access to phone and wallet, and a durable, water-resistant shell, this sling hits the right balance between utility and low profile.

Key Features

• Slimmed-down classic: Offers the carry convenience of the Borealis in a smaller silhouette that keeps essentials close without overwhelming the wearer.
• Adjustable carry: The padded shoulder strap adjusts from 24 in to 43 in for a comfortable crossbody or shoulder fit on most body types.
• Maximum storage: Multiple secure-zip compartments, a tablet sleeve and a phone pocket let users organize devices and small items efficiently while keeping hands free.
• External bungee-compression: The bungee system expands to hold a water bottle or compress when not needed so the sling adapts to variable loads.
• Recycled fabric with DWR: The recycled textile plus a Durable Water-Repellent finish helps keep contents dry in light rain and supports a lower-impact material choice.

Who It's For

The Borealis Sling is ideal for city commuters, transit travelers and anyone who wants quick access to essentials without a full backpack. It works well for airport carry, short hikes, and day-to-day use where a tablet or phone needs to be kept secure and reachable.

Shoppers who need large-capacity hauling, heavy outdoor gear or a bag for children under 12 should look elsewhere; the 6 L volume and compact footprint are not designed for long multi-day trips or bulky loads.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Quality construction and recycled fabric with DWR keep items protected and feel durable.
• Thoughtful internal organization including a tablet sleeve, mesh pocket and key hook for tidy storage.
• Comfortable padded strap with a wide adjustment range lets the sling fit a variety of carry styles.
• External bungee system and side water bottle pocket add flexibility for extra items on the go.

Cons

• Size perceptions vary; some find the sling roomier than expected while others call it much smaller, so measuring expectations against the 6 L volume is important.
• Not intended for children 12 and under and not suitable for heavy or bulky loads due to its compact capacity.

Specifications

Brand	The North Face
Model	Borealis Sling Bag
Dimensions	7.3 in x 4.7 in x 13 in (18.5 cm x 12 cm x 33 cm)
Volume	6 L
Strap Length	Min 24 in / Max 43 in (61 cm / 110 cm)
Average Weight	10.6 oz
Fabric	Recycled fabric with Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) finish

Our Verdict

The Borealis Sling is a smart choice for commuters and travelers who want a compact, well-organized carry that protects a tablet and phone while staying low profile. Given its durable recycled fabric, padded strap and adaptable bungee storage, it represents good value for anyone prioritizing convenience and organization over sheer capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the sling fit a standard tablet?
Yes, the main compartment includes a sleeve sized for a tablet or phone, suitable for most compact tablets.

Is the fabric weather resistant?
The sling uses recycled fabric with a DWR finish, which sheds light rain but is not fully waterproof in heavy downpours.

Can the sling carry a water bottle?
Yes, it has a side water bottle pocket and the external bungee-compression system can expand to accommodate a bottle.