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
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 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
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 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 😁
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 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
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
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
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.
