Comfort/Fit
The Terra’s padding is comprised mostly of large blocks of padding. These blocks run the length of the back, with little accommodation for the arch of the lower back. The frame is flexible, which adds a bit of comfort for the back. The sternum strap has an adjustable slide, but moves position during use. 

Storage
The North Face Terra has both top and bottom entry points. Within the body compartment, there is an optional interior divider and a permanent water bladder sleeve. There are two small zippered pockets on the back that we found little use for. 

Stability
There is not much structure to the waist harness of the Terra, which means that whatever pivot does occur is a byproduct of padding bending and bunching. The Terra also has a tall and narrow body, which sits high on the body of the user. This high center of gravity is more dramatic than even bigger backpacks. 

Durability
The biggest durability concern on this bag are the basic plastic buckles. The wide waist buckle is hefty, but other buckles seem to be at risk of failure after prolonged or strenuous use though they never failed during testing. The mesh that forms the water bottle sleeves will be quick to tear if the user takes this pack off trail. 

Extras
The Terra has all the basic extras of this test set, beginning with a sternum whistle and four small loops on the brain to mount a solar panel or dry socks. There are two hip pouches, one mesh and the other water resistant, both with zippers. There are also two gear/tool loops on the back that are fastened at the top with stiff velcro.