The North Face Surge Backpack Review
(2023 Update)

When it comes to spacious storage options, The North Face’s Surge Backpack is hard to top. Importantly, the Surge Backpack features padded shoulder straps, a ventilating mesh back panel, and a hard-wearing exterior. For more, read the full 2023 North Face Surge Backpack review below.

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CONTENTS

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Product Card

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Size: 20" H x 14" W x 8.5" D

Volume: 33 L

Warranty: Lifetime

Laptop Sleeve: Yes

Side Pockets: Two

The North Face Surge Backpack

$128.32
$118.14
4 new from $117.60
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 12:25 pm

Roomy TNF Backpack

An outdoor bag with plenty of storage, the North Face Surge Backpack is a tough, durable option. The Surge’s standout features include a wide-opening dual zip main compartment, handy side water bottle storage, and numerous quick stash accessory pockets.

In keeping with North Face tradition, the Surge Backpack has several premium comfort features. Like the North Face Recon, the Surge Backpack is equipped with ergonomically shaped shoulder straps and a cushioned air mesh back panel for optimum support and ventilation. Thus, the Surge can be worn for extended periods without discomfort.

The Surge Backpack is designed to withstand the demands of rugged outdoor use with a durable 500D Cordura shell exterior and a hard-wearing nylon inner lining. A Lifetime Product Warranty from The North Face ensures that all of their goods are free of defects in materials and workmanship.

TNF’s Surge Backpack has an abundance of storage space and is a fantastic overall value. The Surge Backpack outperforms a similar North Face option, the North Face Jester Backpack, in terms of main compartment storage volume and carrying comfort. Additionally, the Surge’s laptop and tablet sleeves are finished with a fleece lining for safe travel protection.

SURGE BACKPACK: RATINGS BREAKDOWN

STYLE
85%
COMFORT
89%
DURABILITY
91%
VALUE
87%

PROS

Hard-wearing exterior offers protection against wear and tear.

Spacious main compartment with expandable mesh side pockets.

Multiple zippered external pockets for quick stash storage.

CONS

Unused slack from waist strap can hang low.

Molded back panel may have some initial stiffness.

Can get a bit bulky when fully packed.

SUITABLE FOR

OUTDOOR

Durable exterior. Ergonomic back panel. External gear attachment. Compression straps. Durable exterior.

EVERYDAY

Versatile everyday usability. Easy to access main compartment. Multiple quick stash front pockets. Long zipper pulls.

TRAVEL

Room for travel accessories. Ergonomic back and shoulder support. Top haul handle. Side compression straps.

WORK

Secure laptop and tablet sleeves. Padded back support. Zippered front pockets. Adjustable shoulder straps. Front handle.

The North Face Surge Backpack Review

North Face Surge Review Continued...

KEY FEATURES

✔ Padded 15″ laptop sleeve ✔ Large main compartment — ideal for books and binders ✔ Fleece-lined media pocket ✔ Dual side water bottle pockets ✔ Adjustable shoulder straps ✔ Padded air-mesh back panel ✔ 360° reflective loop ✔ Top carry handle

DIMENSIONS

20″ (H) x 14″ (W) x 8.5″ (D) 33 L (V)

Backpack Review Dimensions

NORTH FACE SURGE VS NORTH FACE IRON PEAK

In this comparison between the North Face Surge Backpack and the North Face Iron Peak Backpack, the Surge comes out ahead. Notably, it has a clear style and durability advantage and is better overall value for money.

TNF
Iron Peak

78 / OVERALL RATING
  • STYLE RATING - 74
  • COMFORT RATING - 82
  • DURABILITY RATING - 80
  • VALUE RATING - 76

NORTH FACE SURGE: SUMMARY

  • Durable Exterior

    The backpack has a 500D Cordura shell outside and a nylon lining inside that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

  • Large Main Compartment

    A large dual zip main compartment with a wide opening is one of the Surge's standout features.

  • Ergonomic Carrying Support

    Ergonomically contoured shoulder straps and a ventilating back panel provide carrying support and breathability.

  • Versatile Usability

    With multiple convenient storage options, the Surge can be used for a wide range of outdoor activities.

  • Secure Device Storage

    The interior laptop and tablet sleeves are equipped with a fleece lining to provide secure protection when on the road.

FINAL SAY!

"Featuring a large main compartment with plenty of storage space, the Surge Backpack from The North Face can be used for a variety of activities ranging from hiking to commuting to work. Notably, the 15-inch laptop pocket unzips to lie flat for easy access on-the-go. For maximum comfort and ventilation, the Surge Backpack has ergonomically shaped shoulder straps and an air mesh back panel."

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DISCUSSION

Let us know what you think about the North Face Surge Backpack in the comments below!

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