Review - North Face Rolling Thunder Suitcase

I must admit when it comes to The North Face I am normally quite dubious. Not to say they are not a reputable company in outdoor gear but I used to work in outdoor retail and quite a high percentage of their products were returned to us, with a couple of notable exceptions. Firstly the North face produce a Steep and Summit series for there clothing range. The items in these ranges are well constructed and built to last so are fine to purchase. Secondly and most importantly for me the luggage made by TNF is amongst the best available, whether it be the duffles, carry-ons, backpacks or suitcases its all built to last. Here is my review of the TNF Rolling Thunder Suitcase.

Coming in at a gentle £229 for the 80 litre model the Rolling Thunder isn't cheap. It took a lot of convincing for me to go for it, but since then I haven't looked back. The 80L version weighs in at 4.4kg which is not light s for those of you who are looking to make the most of your luggage allowance there is certainly lighter luggage available, just look at the range from Osprey. What that 4.4kg gives you is one of the toughest luggage options on the market and the durability of this case is not in question.

Throughout the spine is a strong backbone which transmits all the way to the handle. In addition to the extendable handle on the top of the bag there is also a grip handle on each side of the bag. Meaning whichever way it comes around on the conveyor belt its easy to grab, or tie down on the roof rack of a car. The wheels are strong and durable and this strong spine, solid wheelbase and great handle make it one of the easiest bags I've ever had to navigate around the airport and even down the cobbled backstreets of Padua. Its strong backbone also makes it a case that you can be confident isn't going to tip over unexpectedly. This thing is so sturdy you can leave your backpack hanging on the handle and be pretty certain it's going to stay upright.

The bottom of the case is reinforced which is great as this is the area that takes the most abuse. Added to this there are skid rails on the base which prevents the bottom of the bag from getting damaged when laid flat, as well as given protection from the abuse the baggage handlers like to hand out when dragging bags about. The duffel exterior is strong and waterproof and this adds another great factor to this luggage. Stuck in rain waiting for your AirBnB host to let you in. Well at least you will have a fresh set of clothes when you finally get inside.

In terms of packing this case is super easy. It has a large D shape opening with a zip that opens on three sides. This allows really good access to the deep main compartment which when fully loaded remains easy to close. There are compression straps on the interior of the pocket that allow you to buckle down your belongings meaning you can squeeze a couple of extra items in! On the reverse of the opening flap there is a large zip mesh pocket which is great for keeping those items you want to keep handy. The mesh pocket allows these items to be found easily due to being able to see the items.

Overall I know this piece of luggage is expensive, but it really does do what it says on the tin. Its strong, durable, comfortable and its going to last. Although this isn't a backpacking piece that I would take with me on a round the world trip, this bag definitely has a place in my luggage collection. Recently living in Cairo this piece was my go to when travelling around the country in taxi's and buses. It has been with me on a number of flights and journeys has a remained unscathed. It is also a favourite for taking on snowboard trips where I want to fit larger items such as snowboard boots, which is easy with the large packing compartment. If your looking for a luggage piece that is going to last look no further.