North Face Surge vs Recon Compared

Maybe you are the kind of person who likes to travel a lot and live out of a backpack. Maybe you are a student studying at university, or you might just be a weekend warrior camper.

Regardless of who you are, if you ever use a backpack to carry the essentials, this North Face backpack comparison is for you.

When you have to lug around a lot of stuff, one of the most important questions you ask yourself is “Which backpack should I use?” And since there are so many options out there, it can be easy to not know which North Face backpack is right for you.

So today we decided to help mitigate this confusion by doing an in-depth review of two of the best backpacks out there. The backpacks under review are The North Face Surge and The North Face Recon. Just to shake things up, we are going to do this as a comparison review.

The North Face is an iconic brand that has been in the game of producing some of the finest outdoor products for a long time. They primarily manufacture and design backpacks, activewear, and outdoor gears. The North Face Surge and The North Face Recon are just a couple of the many amazing backpacks designed and manufactured by The North Face.

Bottom Line Up Front: If you are someone who likes to travel light, then the Recon is for you. If you need more storage capacity and plan to use it for airline travel then I recommend the Surge.

Main Differences Between the North Face Surge vs Recon

The main differences between the North Face Surge and Recon are:

  • The North Face Surge has slightly more capacity at 31L compared to the Recon at 30L
  • The North Face Recon is almost a whole pound lighter than the Surge
  • The North Face Surge has a TSA friendly travel design, whereas the Recon is better for hiking

The North Face Surge | Backcountry

It is said that the key to success is efficient organization, and that is why The North Face made the Surge 31L Backpack. Made for professionals and full-time students, the Surge is equipped with various pockets to keep you on track for success. 

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Before we dive into the actual comparison between these daypacks form North Face, we are going to take a look at some of the specs from each of them.

The North Face Surge

North Face Surge

This daypack has a volume capacity of 31 liters and comes with a lot of special features. It is designed for professionals, students, outdoor adventurers and just about anyone that needs a good backpack with a lot of room.

This backpack is especially recommended to people who like organization in their life because this backpack has several compartments that make it very efficient and easy to store all your items without the process being more chaotic than it needs to be.

The North Face Surge is available for men as well as women, in a whole range of eye-pleasing colors. It is a one-size-fits-all backpack and that makes it infinitely easier to buy the Surge backpack without spending a lot of time trying to gauge different sizes and dimensions.

The North Face Surge Specifications

  • Dimension: 20 inches x 13.25 inches x 10.5 inches
  • Volume: 31 Liters.
  • Average Weight: 3 pounds and 2.8 oz.
  • Fabric: 500D nylon oxford slub, 420D nylon and  210D Cordura nylon ripstop.
  • Laptop Sleeve: 10.25 inches x 14 inches

North Face Surge Pack Selling Points

Good Storage Capacity

As we discussed earlier in this review, The North Face Surge has a volume of 31 liters. So it is perfect for people who need a larger backpack. Due to its large storing capacity, this backpack is an ideal option as a faithful companion in most shorter outdoor activities. It is also recommended to students who need to carry a lot of stuff around with them.

Pack Compartments

This Surge backpack from The North Face has an impressive 6 total compartments. Two smaller side compartments on either side of the front of the backpack, a bigger front compartment, another compartment on the front and two main compartments. That is especially sweet because you can store a lot of things in a mess-free manner.

Media compatible [Laptop Compartment)

This backpack can also be used to efficiently carry laptops (laptop compartment) or tablets. If you need to take your laptop or tablet wherever you go then this bag is going to meet that requirement. It has a padded laptop compartment ideal for storing a 15-inch laptop. This backpack also has another padded tablet sleeve (can be used for a small padded laptop sleeve) placed on the front compartment for easy access.

The padded compartments are also lined with fleece. This ensures extra protection for your precious electronics.

North Face Surge

Design

Let’s be honest, no matter how good a backpack is if it is not visually pleasing than it is probably not going to be a favorite. Fortunately, that is not the case with this north face backpack. It is beautiful. Despite having a high storage capacity, this backpack does not look or feel bulky.

The FlexVent technology used to craft this backpack gives it flexibility and breathability. The custom injection-molded adjustable shoulder straps, padded back panel, and a lumbar panel makes it comfortable to use and distributes weight equally on the shoulders.

Other features

This backpack is safe and travel-friendly. It has a 360-degree bike light loop that is reflective so it is a great choice for people who use bikes for daily travel. There are two water bottle pockets that are made with Teksever fabric.

The shoulder strap has webbings which make this backpack even easier to carry. The top handle of the backpack is padded so you can even carry this backpack using the top handle rather than strapping it on your shoulder. There is a waist belt on this backpack that can be removed.

This backpack also has a sternum strap. A sternum strap that covers the chest. A sternum strap provides extra support for the chest and also minimizes the jarring motion of the backpack when carried while walking. The sternum strap on The North Face Surge backpack has a whistle that can be used during an emergency.

The North Face Surge | Backcountry

It is said that the key to success is efficient organization, and that is why The North Face made the Surge 31L Backpack. Made for professionals and full-time students, the Surge is equipped with various pockets to keep you on track for success. 

Check price Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

The North Face Recon Pack

The North Face Recon Pack

The North Face Surge is a popular backpack especially for carrying electronics. This backpack is stylish, chic and has an urban feel to it.

This is another daypack by The North Face. It has a volume of 30 liters and is available in one size that is suitable for all. This backpack is highly durable and organized. It has several compartments and pockets which makes it a champion among frequent travelers.

It has a men-specific and women-specific model available. These backpacks are manufactured in several different colors that allow your backpack to be highly personalized.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 19.25 inchesx 13 inchesx 7 inches.
  • Volume: 30 liters.
  • Average Weight: 2 pounds and 7.7 oz.
  • Fabric:  600D polyester toile, 500D nylon oxford, 420D nylon, 210d Cordura nylon – ripstop, polyester jacquard camo.
  • Laptop Sleeve: 11.5 inchesx 17.75 inches.

North Face Recon Selling Points

Size

This bag has a volume of 30 liters. It is neither too small nor too big, it is just the right size. This backpack is large enough to use makes it useful in various places. You can use this to as a school backpack, an office backpack, for traveling, and even for short camping trips.

Compartments

The organization with this backpack is infinitely easy. There is a large main compartment that can be used to store files, books, etc., another front compartment, an external pocket to store small items, a front, extendable stash pocket that allows easy, quick storage and retrieval.  

This backpack has a total of 4 external compartments and several internal pockets and organizers and bandoliers for storing your goods.

Media compatible

This backpack has a laptop sleeve in the main compartment. This backpack is ideal for carrying a 15-inch laptop. There are extended mesh pockets that can be used to store cell phones as well or act as mesh water bottle pockets. The front compartment also has a tablet sleeve.

The compartments are padded and lined with fleece to give protection to your devices and also prevent damage from falls and bumps.

Design

This backpack has a unique FlexVent suspension feature that makes this backpack very comfortable to use. There is a padded lumbar panel, a padded shoulder strap, and an extremely comfy padded mesh back panel.

Additional features

There is a sternum strap on this backpack which has a whistle on it to keep you safe. The two extended mesh pockets can be used as water bottle storage or to store a cell phone. The pockets and compartments have secure and easy-to-use zippers.

The North Face Recon Pack

This backpack has a 360-degree reflective bike-light loop which ensures that you are visible even during nigh or dark. The top handle of the backpack is padded for lifting. This backpack has a waist belt (waist strap) which is a removable waist belt.

Another unique feature found in the Recon backpack is the stretchable front stash pocket that can be used to store items such as a helmet or a water bottle. Also, there are clip-on carabiners in the internal compartment of the Recon. You can use these to clip on your Nalgene or keychains.

Above we saw the specifications and features of both backpacks. They share a few common features such as design, the make, and organizing capabilities. Now we will look at the differences between the two.

Comparison between The North Face Surge and The North Face Recon

There are a few differences between these packs. First of all, the dimensions of the Surge backpack are greater than the Recon.

Also, the volume of the surge backpack is higher when compared to the recon backpack. The North Face Surge also weighed more than Recon.

Volume

The volume of the Surge backpack is a whopping 31 liters while the volume of the Recon backpack is 30 liters. The North Face Surge has more storage capacity compared to Recon. One liter may not seem like a big deal, but that liter can be the difference between packing enough food or water or not.

This feature is especially useful when you need to use your backpack for traveling or packing in your camping gear. In such situations, every liter of storage space counts. But if you are a student or a professional who needs a bit smaller backpack then The North Face Recon is a better option. It is just the right size.

Weight

We saw in the review that the Surge is the heavier of the two bags. So if you are looking for a lightweight backpack then the Recon is definitely the appropriate choice. It is lighter and still big enough to meet whatever requirements you might have.

Compartments

While both the backpacks have several highly organized compartments and pockets, the Surge backpack definitely has the upper hand here as well.

The Surge has 6 compartments in total, of which 2 are main compartments. While the Recon backpack has a total of 4 compartments and only one of them serves as the main compartment. Clearly, the surge backpack provides more storage organization and flexibility than the Recon backpack.

That is one thing that you need to keep in mind about these backpacks, especially if you are purchasing them for their organization flexibility and the number of compartments they have.

Bulk

This is one round that the Recon backpack is going to win. When compared, the Surge backpack is a bit bulkier arguably due to the additional compartments and the Recon does not have as much bulk. So if you are looking for a backpack that is not very bulky and bloated looking, then The North Face Recon is the safer bet out of the two.

Daypacks

A daypack is defined as a small backpack or rucksack that has shoulder straps and is used to carry things. When compared, then the Recon backpack serves as a better daypack.

It has the perfect volume to be a light and comfortable backpack. This is not to say that the Surge is not comfortable, but it is a bit heavy for everyday use and that makes it the less attractive options comparatively.

Internal Compartments

While the Surge has several compartments, the Recon has carabiners in its main compartment. That is a cool feature as now you can clip a Nalgene or headlamp onto it. The Recon backpack also has bandoliers that make storing items just a bit easier and quicker to access.

The North Face Recon Pack

TSA friendly

If you travel frequently, then The North Face Surge is a better choice compared to the Recon. This is because the Surge backpack is more TSA-friendly out of the two. Its TSA-friendly design enables it to be opened completely flat.

As we previously mentioned in this review, The North Face Surge has a laptop sleeve that is located in the back compartment and this compartment can be opened and laid flat.

This just makes your life a lot easier when travelling and going through several TSA checks as you don’t have to go through the horrible experience of unpacking your entire backpack in hurry and then packing it back all the while you are in the middle of the airport TSA inspection line with people behind you telling you to hurry up. That is very stressful.

Stretchable front pocket

The Recon has a sweet feature that the Surge does not have. That feature is the stretchable pocket located in the front. It is a big pocket that can be utilized to store larger items such as a helmet or a jacket or maybe a hoodie.

Some backpacks have this option too, but those backpacks usually have front pockets having bungee cords. This is a bit disadvantageous as you are constantly fearful that the cords may break. But The North Face Recon solves this problem by trading the bungee cords for a stretchable pocket.

Material

While both the backpacks are fleece-lined, there are a few differences. The North Face Surge has a softer internal material when compared to the Recon backpack.

Which is important if you are going for rougher outdoor activities. The Surge might be easier to tear than the Recon backpack.

North Face Recon vs Surge Price

The price is always a factor that has to be considered when buying a backpack.  The North Face Surge has a price of $ 129 (Check out the latest rates here) while The North Face Recon costs $99 (Check out the latest rates here).

If you want a cheaper but good quality backpack then Recon is what you are looking for. But if money is not a problem for you and you don’t mind the extra bulk then go for The North Face Surge.

Here is just a glance at all the differences we found between the Surge backpack and the Recon backpack.

North Face Recon vs Surge Price

The North Face Surge Vs Recon- summary at a glance

  • Volume: The North Face Surge has more volume.
  •  Weight: The North Face Recon is lighter.
  •  Compartments: The North Face Surge has 2 more compartments (6 total, 2 main compartments).
  •  Storage capacity: The North Face Surge has a greater storage capacity.
  •  Bulky: The North Face Recon is less bulky.
  •  Daypack: The North Face Recon is more suitable as a Daypack.
  •  Carabiner: The North Face Recon has carabiner options.
  •  Bandoliers: The North Face Recon has bandoliers.
  •  TSA Friendly: The North Face Surge is TSA friendly.
  •  Stretchable front pocket: The North Face Recon has a stretchable front pocket.
  •  Material: The North Face Surge has softer material.
  • Price: The North Face Recon is generally $20-30 cheaper (typically under $100). 

So those are the differences between The North face Recon and The North Face Surge. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, it just depends on what your requirements are.

Although different, there are quite a few similarities between the two packs. They are both highly organized and useful if you like to travel mess-free. They have one size that fits all and averts any pickpocketing problems. The compartments are relatively spacious and easy to unzip.

Both the backpacks have a laptop sleeve that is extremely useful and provides enough protection to the electronic devices as the sleeves are padded and also lined with fleece material for added security.

The North Face Recon, as well as The North Face Surge, are both available as men specific and women-specific models. They are both available in a variety of colors and are aesthetically pleasing.North Face Recon vs Surge Price

They both have shoulder straps which are removable. They both also have sternum straps which are padded and allows extra stability when moving with the backpacks. The sternum straps have another nice little feature.

It has a whistle on it and this ensures extra safety. So if you are stuck in a sticky situation, bad neighborhood, or generally feel threatened, then you can blow the whistle and attract people towards you.

Both the backpacks are very comfortable to carry. This comfort is due to the fact that the back panel as well as the shoulder straps, both are padded. The weight of the backpacks along with all the items inside them is distributed equally.

This makes sure that your shoulders have equal weight and none of them are taking the majority of the brunt. The back panel supports the back and does not put too much pressure on it.

North Face Recond and Surge Alternative Options

Although the Surge and the Recon are a fantastic choice, there are several alternatives available for a person who needs the perfect day pack.

North Face Borealis Backpack

The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack | Backcountry.com

Made for grad students, free lance journalists, and individuals whose work follows them wherever they go, the Borealis 28L Backpack by The North Face holds everything you need with reliable support.

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The North Face Borealis is a great option for those who require an even smaller backpack. The Borealis backpack is 28 liters and has a capacity of carrying a laptop that is 15 inches.

North Face Jester Backpack

The North Face Jester | Backcountry

Designed for the modern user, the Jester Backpack fits the needs of business professionals, students, or travelers alike. Two large main compartments carry your essentials, while internal organizational pockets offer a home for your smaller items.

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Another great option is The North Face Jester which is again 28 liters in volume and also has a laptop sleeve. This backpack is a great option to carry on short hikes as well as in the city.

It has a large pocket that is crisscrossed with bungee cords. This compartment is similar in function to the front stretch pocket in The North Face Recon. But as we discussed in the review that the bungee cords are not very stretchable and have only so much flexibility.

Another option is The North Face Isabella backpack. This is specially designed for women and is 21 liters. It has a tablet and a laptop sleeve as well.

North Face Jester Backpack

How to buy The North Face Surge and Recon backpacks?

There are various means available through which you can buy these backpacks. The most obvious one is that you can directly buy them from the official The North Face website. Other e-commerce sites such as Amazon, eBay, or similar sites sell these backpacks too.

  • On Amazon: Find the North Face Surge at this listing and the North Face Recon here. Generally, both are available with a WIDE selection of patterns and colors.
  • On Backcountry: If you are an REI member you can take advantage of their divided savings, which brings the price down considerably. Find the North Face Surge here and the North Face Recon here.

If you have a The North Face basecamp in your state or city, then you can pay them a visit and purchase your backpack directly from there.

So Which is Best? Honest Opinion

Bottom Line: So the million dollar question, which is the better of the two? Well, that answer is highly variable depending on your specifications, requirements, and uses. If you are someone who likes to travel light, then the Recon is for you. If you need more storage capacity then I recommend the Surge.

Personally, if I had to choose, my choice will be The North Face Surge. I love organization. The sight of seeing all my stuff packed in an orderly fashion makes me giddy. With the Surge backpack, I get that organizational flexibility.

The North Face Surge | Backcountry

It is said that the key to success is efficient organization, and that is why The North Face made the Surge 31L Backpack. Made for professionals and full-time students, the Surge is equipped with various pockets to keep you on track for success. 

Check price Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Also, I carry a lot of stuff with me. At any given moment I can have several books, a few binders and a water bottle with me. So I need a backpack that can efficiently carry all of the items I need.

Another reason I liked the Surge backpack is because of its travel and TSA friendly design. I like how the main compartment can be easily unzipped and laid flat. Like mentioned before in this review, this feature just makes life that much easier.

But that is just my opinion. Every person uses their backpack differently and for different purposes. If you are going on a short hike then The North Face Surge will not be a practical option. The unnecessary weight will just slow you down and tire you faster. So in that case, the Recon is a better option.

No matter what you choose, both these backpacks are durable and an excellent choice for a daypack. They give you your money’s worth and there are very few things to complain about with these backpacks. They are comfortable to carry and use, highly compartmentalized, and just do what they are supposed to do. So no matter what you choose, you should be satisfied with it.

So that is all for our comparison review of The North Face Surge vs The North Face Recon. We hope we made your choice easier and less frustrating. Keep calm and adventure on!

Further Reading on Backpacks

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