North Face Surge vs North Face Recon (2023) - What’s the Difference?

In this video we will be comparing The North Face Recon(2023) and the North Face Surge. Both a decent amount of space, a solid build quality, plenty of organization and comfortable harness systems, but there are some slight differences that might make one better than the other depending on your needs.

Which of these do you prefer? What are your favorite bags from popular brands?

Music: “The Nexus Riddim” - Konrad OldMoney

#minimaltravel #onebagtravel #whatsinmybag

00:00 - Intro
00:42 - Aesthetic and materials
00:53 - Harness
01:39 - Main compartment
01:51 - Similarities
03:09 - Wearing the bag
03:19 - Front quick access pockets
04:45 - Laptop Compartment
06:37 - Conclusion

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[ejavak]

Great reviews but I’m mostly here for the walk. Man’s got one hell of a walk!

[redmori]

Exactly what I was looking for. Great reviews as always.

[d.a.t]

This video really helped me with my decision. Ended up choosing the Surge solely due to the laptop compartment being roomier, as well as offering more protection. I’m an IT guy so keeping my laptops and other tech protected while traveling is very important. That being said they’re both good bags. I always liked TNF book bags because they’re very durable and long lasting. My first book bag was a north face bag that lasted me from Kindergarten, all the way to 8th grade. Could’ve still kept using it after that but after having the same bag for so long, I just wanted something new.

[belengonzalez]

This was SO helpful ! Thank you for making this !

[ninjashhh]

I've had the same NF Surge backpack for like 8 years around the world (along with another 52L NF backpack that has also been awesome to have) and have loved having it the whole time. So many convenient little and big pockets and it's a durable, quality bag. Interesting to see the changes they've made to the bag. And yeah I wish the logo was way more incognito on the front there. Honestly every NF product I've owned as I've bounced around the globe has been great quality.

[GaetanoProchilo]

I've took the Recon. The Surge is too big and doesn't have compression straps. This backpack really saved my back, it doesn't hurt anymore. The only thing that i'm concerned about, is the elastic web on the front. When it rains becomes wet, and i'm afraid it will smell. But oveall, definitely the best money i payed for a backpack and i'm very happy with my choice. Fantastic comparison.

[legendaryaguilar]

This was the perfect review for me, you were the only reviewer I saw that went into which option would be better for someone with a bigger back, I'm tall and my stature is a bit wider but every other reviewer would tell me the measurements but not really show the difference nor make the recommendation. Also, the laptop sleeve on the Surge seems more ideal since my laptop won't potentially hit a hard surface as hard. Great video, thanks!

[hustlasever]

Please also review The North Face Router comparing to the Borealis. Thank you.

[sergsergesrgergseg]

is the recon usable for long term travel? storing clothes, laptop and general stuff? or do i need something bigger

[hawkeye]

Looks like the Recon is a little more versatile -- especially for hikes where you may want a water bladder. Is there a hole on these bags for one? The Surge looks better for urban/work stuff where you need to lug that computer around. Weird that they removed the compression straps on such a large bag. Also, I have found you can always create a padded bottom in the compartments like the Recons with a rolled t-shirt/pad or something because the compartment is so huge it will still fit your devices. Also, are those front compartments dual zippers? I would certainly hope so.

[LiveLoveLaugh]

I’m trying to decide!! I need a backpack to fit my school stuff and then things like my wallet and all the other random junk I carry. I need a lot of storage space since I will be using it as a backpack and kind of like a purse. I plan on carrying it to my job so I can do schoolwork and not have to carry my purse as well

[suitlab]

To be honest the older version recon backpacks were a lot better. Spewing my mate lost my old recon backpack 😭

[j.m.t.]

II have the recon, but I don’t particularly appreciate how it keeps falling over. Does the surge backpack fall over like the recon?

[shaunsebastian]

I’m undecided between surge and recon 😬

[wushuhsu]

The new Surge no longer has the side compression straps.😢

[Salty_Biscuitz]

I just got the surge on a discount for $85

[hermanchu]

Is it possible to fit a regular tripod on the recon? Thanks

[starfoggs]

Wow.. just by looking at them within the first 3 min of the video I expected something like 28 vs 32.

[City-Hiker]

The North Face Borealis and ROUTER have up to 40% discount now.

[mayla]

I just bought the recon and I'm disappointed at how small it looks!