Carry Case vs Recon Backpack for Women: which is safer?

Garmin Carry Case is the clear pick. The North Face Recon Backpack for Women carries a failing PFAS grade, and we never recommend buying a failing product.

Our pick

Garmin

Carry Case

PFAS grade

B 85/100

Overall grade

C 73/100

Verdict

Buy

Hazard flags

⚑ 3

Material

Neoprene or polyester with nylon hardware

Confidence

72%

PossibleAzo dyes in polyester or neoprene coloring

PossibleNylon hardware degradation and microfiber release

PossibleHeavy metals in polyester dyes or pigments

Why this gradeBuy

The North Face

Recon Backpack for Women

PFAS grade

F 40/100

Overall grade

F 14/100

Verdict

Skip

Hazard flags

⚑ 3

Material

Nylon fabric with water-repellent coating water-repellent treatment

Confidence

45%

Possiblewater-repellent coating degradation and microfiber shedding

PossibleOff-gassing or volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

LikelyPFAS in water-repellent coating treatment (undisclosed chemistry)

Why this grade

Both products run through the same public rubric: materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls, plus a beyond-PFAS hazard analysis. Grades are model-based estimates, not lab tests. How grades work →

More waterproof outdoor bags & luggage: see the full ranking