one of kind video and bags, you’re the only one out there yet from bag enthusiast creators. Maybe this is the reason too why prices on the 2020 versions went on sale on our country because of the upcoming 2021. Hopefully you can get one for the router too! Looking forward to this
I just received a Recon after a lot of research, but I am second-guessing my decision. I'm going to order the Surge and do a comparison. The way my Recon is packed, it feels top-heavy. I think I'll enjoy the extra zip pockets on the front of the Surge as well as the ipad sleeve in the laptop compartment.
@@randompersonguy3124 I just ordered a Surge as well. It's absolutely insane on TNF's website the Surge is kind of review bombed because apparently the older version was just 'sO mUcH BeTteR' even though the new version looks better to me than the old version for what I need. The Surge is clearly a tech bag that prioritizes laptop, camera and small electronic storage, and it's meant to be accompanied by another carry-on bag for > 3-day trips. But that doesn't stop people from cramming it full of 30-40 lbs of sh** and then complaining when the zippers don't function properly or the seams start to tear... Whatever, I'm upgrading from an old Burton backpack that I've had for over 18 years. It's a guaranteed night and day difference.
@@biggusy25 Yessir, I've had mine since late 2021 and it has served me quite well. I love how you can compress it as well for the times were you really don't need to carry much.
The green Black and orange version of the surge s been a real tough one to find... By far the best option out there.. Any hints would be so appreciated! Keep up with the good work bro.
Wow awesome review. Better than north face short vids. You made the decision to purchase the surge. Thank you so much for taking time to make the vid. Great comparison 💯 😃 👍🏽
The 2020 models are on sale for $50 at a local store. I got a Recon and a Surge model. Now I’m torn. I want to keep only 1, which one do you recommend? My primary purpose is travel and then work
I cannot find the Back color with yellow front on the North Face website. I’d like the older version Recon backpack with yellow front, but not the newer one with half yellow and half black
Nice review. Currently have an older RECON (maybe a 2016) and had several 2019 RECON and JESTER packs (Got rid of) due to lack of stability and inability for the bag to stand straight up, always a drag and still is cause I have the older RECON but it's a keeper. The new bottom is definately a plus!
Thanks for the review. I like the previous one better, i use the compressionbands on the site to secure my waterbottlers or if i need more room i can hang a packing cube on the side
@@DesmondCheng I just bought today the 2020 edition. Like the extra handle as well. I have the cryptic as well. I like the extra compartmend not only for laptops but also for books and my binocular
@@DesmondCheng Yeah I think I return it and wait what the 2021 version is like..Since you got a review sample they might chanched it I dont really need one Have 7 backpacks but its.my only fetish 😁
both bags are a bit big to fit under teh seat, because then you can't place ur feet anywhere. if you want something to fit under the seat well, something under 25L is best!
Thanks for the great review. I am just trying to decide between these 2. Prefer the volume and design of Surge but not sure if Surge has loops to attach additional straps to carry skateboard. I know Recon has this possibility. Thanks once again, any help appreciated.
I dont understand why they would not put side compression straps on the surge... Why would you create waterbottle holders which you cannot strap safely to your backpack :( How can I strap my water bottles on the surge ?
How is the Recon's durability? Are the articulated shoulder straps durable? Will these new articulated straps detach from the backpack or the shoulder straps? I am looking for a backpack that will last for some years and the Recon's construction looks attractive to me. The only concern is its durability and load resistance. Any feedback will be very welcome, thanks in advance.
durability shouldn't be a concern. North Face bags are well built! The shoulder straps do not detach from the backpack! I got rid of the recon unfortunately and stuck with the Surge as I preferred the larger size
video on that coming soon! If I want comfort, Osprey hands down. If I want organization, the North Face... But if I was only allowed to choose one, I might go with Osprey because its just WAY WAY WAY more comfortable
Can't find the 2021 Surge anywhere on the internet yet. Official TNF site doesn't carry it either Thanks for the great review!! Definitely looking out for it
Hi thanks for the video comparison! It’s hard to find people who is reviewing the new surge and recon! So really found this helpful! Can I ask which bag is better for as a large edc (no camera), the surge, the recon, able carry max, or even the wandrd prvke 31. I have been looking for a new bag to replace my old north face recon.
Hey, after doing some research on these two backpacks I found that the Router is 41 liters while the surge is 31 liters. I am looking for a backpack for school and therefore I need a 40ish liter backpack. What are the sizes of these two? Cause in this video I heard "It is a two-liter difference" so as you can imagine I am pretty confused right now cause on North the Face it says that these two bags have a 10-liter difference.
Just picked up both of these bags so I could compare side by side in person for myself. I’ll I can say that they have changed. So cheaply made now. Bought my wife a recon in 2021. Completely different now. Smaller zippers. Paper thin cheap nylon. Thinner padding. What a disappointment.
bro i’ve been watching all these reviews and this is probably the best one made, good stuff keep it up!
Personally, the Surge just feels to big for me, especially for an EDC, but I agree it is designed well. The Recon works for me better.
one of kind video and bags, you’re the only one out there yet from bag enthusiast creators. Maybe this is the reason too why prices on the 2020 versions went on sale on our country because of the upcoming 2021. Hopefully you can get one for the router too! Looking forward to this
Haha the router did get an update for 2021, but i dont htink ill get a chance to review that. thanks!
@@DesmondCheng ohh too bad. but nice insight of it having revamped too. thanks!
I just received a Recon after a lot of research, but I am second-guessing my decision. I'm going to order the Surge and do a comparison. The way my Recon is packed, it feels top-heavy. I think I'll enjoy the extra zip pockets on the front of the Surge as well as the ipad sleeve in the laptop compartment.
What did you end up going with?
@@border4554 I returned the recon and kept the surge. The surge has a better laptop compartment and more useable pockets. The recon was top heavy.
@@stevedoyel That’s exactly what I did. Surge is just much more nice with the extra pockets and organization.
@@randompersonguy3124 I just ordered a Surge as well. It's absolutely insane on TNF's website the Surge is kind of review bombed because apparently the older version was just 'sO mUcH BeTteR' even though the new version looks better to me than the old version for what I need.
The Surge is clearly a tech bag that prioritizes laptop, camera and small electronic storage, and it's meant to be accompanied by another carry-on bag for > 3-day trips. But that doesn't stop people from cramming it full of 30-40 lbs of sh** and then complaining when the zippers don't function properly or the seams start to tear...
Whatever, I'm upgrading from an old Burton backpack that I've had for over 18 years. It's a guaranteed night and day difference.
@@biggusy25 Yessir, I've had mine since late 2021 and it has served me quite well. I love how you can compress it as well for the times were you really don't need to carry much.
The green Black and orange version of the surge s been a real tough one to find... By far the best option out there.. Any hints would be so appreciated! Keep up with the good work bro.
Wow awesome review. Better than north face short vids. You made the decision to purchase the surge. Thank you so much for taking time to make the vid. Great comparison 💯 😃 👍🏽
@Desy Cheng excellent review man! Seriously, on point and exactly what I was looking for. Keep up the good work!
Thank you!
Could you make a comparison between this new recon and the new borealis?
Thanks for the great video!
One of the best reviewers on RUclips!
The 2020 models are on sale for $50 at a local store. I got a Recon and a Surge model. Now I’m torn. I want to keep only 1, which one do you recommend? My primary purpose is travel and then work
Thank you for great review! , I'll waiting and looking for 2021 surge ,, beautiful color 🤩
no problem! hope you enjoy it when it comes out!
The New Surge looks like Boba Fett 😳
lol
Can’t wait to see what the new colors will be!
ditto!
I cannot find the Back color with yellow front on the North Face website.
I’d like the older version Recon backpack with yellow front, but not the newer one with half yellow and half black
Which one do you recommend as a better everyday carry for office work?
Nice review. Currently have an older RECON (maybe a 2016) and had several 2019 RECON and JESTER packs (Got rid of) due to lack of stability and inability for the bag to stand straight up, always a drag and still is cause I have the older RECON but it's a keeper. The new bottom is definately a plus!
I cant believe they got rid of the larger mesh pocket in the front of the recon.
@@ceas1128 they didn’t lol
Awesome review, thanks bro!
no problemo!
How did you find a Recon with the matching zipper pulls? Love that look but haven’t seen it anywhere!
this was a pre-production model!
Thanks for the review. I like the previous one better, i use the compressionbands on the site to secure my waterbottlers or if i need more room i can hang a packing cube on the side
apparently they made further revisions to this bag which is why its not released yet. so they might put it back! we will see... hopefully august?
@@DesmondCheng I just bought today the 2020 edition. Like the extra handle as well. I have the cryptic as well. I like the extra compartmend not only for laptops but also for books and my binocular
@@StefanTetelepta nice!!!
@@DesmondCheng Yeah I think I return it and wait what the 2021 version is like..Since you got a review sample they might chanched it
I dont really need one Have 7 backpacks but its.my only fetish 😁
@@DesmondCheng I bought the Router instead. Thats like the Surge XL
This was extremely helpful. Surge it is!
glad i could help!
Great video, great review.The surge could fut as personal item bag or underseat??
both bags are a bit big to fit under teh seat, because then you can't place ur feet anywhere. if you want something to fit under the seat well, something under 25L is best!
Thank you for your great reviews!!!
have you found the bottom of the back padding being uncomfortable for you? i’ve heard of it poking in on peoples back
Great review. Thank You ! !!!
Would the surge would the surge be okay for a 5’2 college girl carrying laptop, tablet and books AND would a med-wide hydroflask have space?
Have the 2021 gen recon rn. The surge is just too big for me, but i need the surge pockets on the body of the recon
i know right? theres never a perfect bag!
@@DesmondCheng shh 🤫 i believe one day the perfect bag will still come out!
Thanks for the great review. I am just trying to decide between these 2. Prefer the volume and design of Surge but not sure if Surge has loops to attach additional straps to carry skateboard. I know Recon has this possibility. Thanks once again, any help appreciated.
Can’t find the recon in that color with the yellow zippers do u think it will come out next year?
I'm in doubt between recon and borealis, but nobody make a borealis 2021 review yet. In my country not arrive the 2021 line yet.
apparently, there are 30% of ppl who had the straps break on them after few days - few months of use
This is a common trend I am seeing on both the north face and amazon review of the bag
How has the wear and tear on the straps been on the surge you have had it for a while now?
I dont understand why they would not put side compression straps on the surge... Why would you create waterbottle holders which you cannot strap safely to your backpack :( How can I strap my water bottles on the surge ?
i agree!
If the Surge have side straps and better water bottle holder then it would be a perfect backpack :P
What colour is the recon here?
Are you going to review the 2021 Borealis ?
Still loving my osprey tropos.
love the tropos!
How is the Recon's durability? Are the articulated shoulder straps durable? Will these new articulated straps detach from the backpack or the shoulder straps? I am looking for a backpack that will last for some years and the Recon's construction looks attractive to me. The only concern is its durability and load resistance. Any feedback will be very welcome, thanks in advance.
durability shouldn't be a concern. North Face bags are well built! The shoulder straps do not detach from the backpack! I got rid of the recon unfortunately and stuck with the Surge as I preferred the larger size
Great video!
Hello, i need a new backpack for school, which backpack would you recommend, the recon, the surge 2021or the surge 2020?
I would suggest 2021 surge, but to be honest, any backpack would work! Even a $30 swiss gear one would!
My Surge doesn't have an additional pocket in the main compartment.
Why is that?
I mean it's the 2022 model.
the backpack in this video is a pre-production model so in the curent production model they changed a few things!
@@DesmondCheng thank you for your respond.
Cheers
Does the 2021 surge stand up unsupported like the 2021 recon?
yup, but u need to have some stuff in at the bottom
When will they have 2021 version up on their site? As of today 3/26/21, I still see the old version
hopefully somtetime in April!
very helpful video
please link page where i can buy snapback as you have?
haha not sure if its availble yet! I got it from North Face when I picked up the Recon =)
Hi I would like to see a THE NORTH FACE “SURGE” vs LA POLICE GEAR TERRAIN STEALTH BACKPACK. Thanks in advance!
if only i had the la police gear terrain bag!
Very detailed review Pls do the adavant 20!
thanks! if i get one i will!
Hey Desy! Would you prefer the Osprey Tropos or the 2021 North Face Surge?
video on that coming soon!
If I want comfort, Osprey hands down. If I want organization, the North Face...
But if I was only allowed to choose one, I might go with Osprey because its just WAY WAY WAY more comfortable
@@DesmondCheng Thank you!
Can't find the 2021 Surge anywhere on the internet yet. Official TNF site doesn't carry it either
Thanks for the great review!! Definitely looking out for it
yeah its still not out yet!
great review
thank you!
When are the 2021 models being released?
someone from north face said within the next few weeks, lets hope that is accurate!
Where did you buy these new models?
north face sample sale!
Where can the new surge be bought?
not out yet!
@@DesmondCheng Seems its on their website not but very different than the ones in this video, seems the prototype bags were way better :-/
Where to buy?
not available yet, but soon!
@@DesmondCheng awesome thank you
Hi thanks for the video comparison! It’s hard to find people who is reviewing the new surge and recon! So really found this helpful! Can I ask which bag is better for as a large edc (no camera), the surge, the recon, able carry max, or even the wandrd prvke 31. I have been looking for a new bag to replace my old north face recon.
Hey, after doing some research on these two backpacks I found that the Router is 41 liters while the surge is 31 liters. I am looking for a backpack for school and therefore I need a 40ish liter backpack. What are the sizes of these two? Cause in this video I heard "It is a two-liter difference" so as you can imagine I am pretty confused right now cause on North the Face it says that these two bags have a 10-liter difference.
Non of the links works for surge 2021 were can one get this pack? Thank you.
Hi Jason, sorry its not available yet, I have been told sometime in the spring!
Just picked up both of these bags so I could compare side by side in person for myself. I’ll I can say that they have changed. So cheaply made now. Bought my wife a recon in 2021. Completely different now. Smaller zippers. Paper thin cheap nylon. Thinner padding. What a disappointment.
dammmnnnnn that sucks! shrinkflation...
The only thing that is holding me back from buying the Surge is the water bottle holder, it just seems so small
It stretches out
@@rainbowsix7959 does it fit a 32 oz. hyrdroflask?
no compression straps on Surge.... A floppy mess. Do ANY hiking and it will blow
yeah i hope the fix it soon!