A good backpack is an investment, and as with any investment, it’s important to take the time to research brands and styles in order to ensure that you are getting exactly what you need for the best price. The North Face has been a top contender in the performance gear industry since it’s inception in the mid 1960’s. Their name is synonymous with quality and their backpacks have a reputation for delivering a solid performance whether you are hiking the Appalachian Trail or running between classes on the campus of UCLA.
Here we compare two of their best selling units. While each is a contender in it’s own right, it is important to ensure that you are getting the one that best meets your specific needs.
Unisex Borealis Backpack
The Borealis is a lightweight backpack suitable for hiking, trekking, cycling and travel. A padded laptop sleeve ensures that your computer is protected and the spacious main compartment is large enough for all of your backpacking needs.
Construction:
Injection-molded shoulder straps with added padding provide exceptional fit and comfort, and the mesh back panel with patented Spine Channel ensures extra back support. Main compartment includes padded laptop sleeve, hydration port, organization pocket and tablet sleeve. Available in 15 different colors.
Pros:
Quality construction, large size and exceptional comfort.
Cons:
Laptop compartment will not hold anything larger than a 15” laptop. Backpack is not waterproof, (although it never claims to be) especially around the logo.
Unisex Surge II Backpack
The Surge II is a well-built backpack suitable for both adventure and school use. The large zippered laptop compartment will accommodate up to a 17” laptop comfortably and securely, and the dedicated Neoprene tablet sleeve ensures that your tablet stays put. Secondary compartment includes organizational features.
Construction
Constructed of 1680D ballistics nylon with injection-molded shoulder straps. Straps include a top layer of Atilon foam for added comfort and a bottom layer of PE foam for added support. Available in 8 different colors/color combinations.
Pros:
Dedicated laptop compartment accommodates most 17” units. Extra foam padding at the bottom of the main compartment provides protection from accidental drops. Main compartment is large enough to hold schoolbooks or outdoor gear comfortably.
Cons:
Not waterproof (although it never claims to be).
Conclusion:
While both North Face backpacks are an excellent value, the Surge II is the better choice for all-around comfort, value and protection. The larger size accommodates laptops up to 17”, vs. 15” for the Borealis. Both units are suitable for hiking, travel, cycling and school use, however the Surge II has a larger main compartment that holds more “stuff”, whether it’s books, clothing or overnight gear.
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Both units are priced in the low-to-mid $100 range, making them affordable for the majority of consumers. Both received excellent consumer reviews, however for the purpose of our comparison, it is the opinion of the reviewer that the Surge II is the better buy for overall comfort, durability and value.
Other North Face Borealis Comparisons
Other North Face Surge Comparisons
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