Customer Reviews The North Face Surge

What can I say, I am a big fan of the Surge line, but I have to admit the previous Surge model did have some flaws and minor design nitpicks that I think this new version definitely improves on quite a bit. The 2 large compartments and the 3rd mid-sized compartment have remained pretty much the same, no complaints there. The biggest differences are in the outer compartments. The fleece lined middle pocket is considerably larger now and the 2 front-side compartments definitely are more practical and improvements on the the old design with the left side having much needed organization and also just being able to see what is inside and quickly grab what you need. The water battle pockets are GREATLY improved now, where previously they were very loose and lacked structure, whereas the new one is easily expandable/compressible, more rigid, and goes deeper. Something interesting is that they moved 2x side compression straps down to the bottom, which I actually prefer. One last thing, the bag now stands on its own!!! which is always welcomed. All-in-all, I love this new design and highly recommend it.

Good quality, seems sturdy but the main pockets are oddly proportioned

Been using Northface backpacks for several years lost one. Another was stolen still have one then I actually heard about the life long warranty and the last pack they had was wearing out on the shoulder sling. I got the new surge and two of the pockets at the top have zippers that catch. bummed. Cannot show certification but I am not a bot or work for another company. Just Bummed

Big design flaw. The 2 main compartments, including the laptop sleeve can nor be locked. Theoretically it can be locked, but what holds the zippers together is a thin fabric cord, that can be very easily cut. Only one small pocket with metal zipper holders allows you to use a locker keep it safely locked.

This was the second Surge backpack that we have purchased and the second one that ripped at the shoulder strap (on the seam). The North Face name is supposed to be synonymous with quality outdoor products. This backpack only lasted two months before the strap ripped almost completely off. And, it was only being used for books - no laptop, no water bottle. Don't waste your money.

Originally bought the Borealis but it lacked the pockets I wanted for a business backpack. With the additional front pockets and extra tech sleeves for iPad and Remarkable, the Surge is perfect.

I own the previous version of Surge too and I gave it away to a family member and purchased a new 2021 version. I needed something with organization for office use and all around the city.Personally, I like the new version more to be honest. It's kinda perfect for me. It looks like TNF threw all the possible compartments, so there is nothing missing at all. Separate laptop tablet compartments and multitude of options at the front so you can stow you cables, keys, mask gadgets etc. etc. Secondly, the form factor somehow changed, and it feels more comfortable and right against my back. I love the solid modernized look it's probably the most appealing in the entire TNF line, especially if you have medium-large body type imho - this is individual perspective of course. Now this is not the most lightweight backpack of course but I wouldn't hike with it either I have other packs for hiking. What else.. waist belt is removable which is great. Who uses a waist belt in the city anyway? Bottom line I can definitely recommend this versatile backpack for city/travel/office and other daily usage.

This is a great bag with ample storage and comfortable for wearing. I am disappointed with the quality of the fabric. The material tore easily when I dropped the bag.

My son had the surge and loves it. It ripped. We returned it but coul dnot get repaired. Got an egift card but they were out of stock. Bought the Kanban instead but it was too big for hi for school. Finally the Surge is back in stock and is due to be delivered this week. Still waiting to get credited on my credit card but the people at North face were the best kind of people to work with. polite, caring, professional, helpful....excellent attitude.

I've been using this Surge backpack since 2019 and it has been great! I've heard my family's thoughts on the newer model of the same backpack and they are not as impressed. The straps are more prone to breaking and the seams have started tearing pretty early in the life of their backpack. This being said, my older model has been so great! It's gone through years of hauling notebooks, folders, textbooks, water bottles, and clothes for practice after school. One of the shoulder straps did begin to tear last year (2024) slightly but a quick stitch-job has got it back to working order. I would definitely buy a North Face backpack again!

I use this book bag for work. I love that it has many compartments and I am able to keep everything organized. I also like that my water bottle fits nicely. The pouch for my computer is adequately padded to keep my laptop safe.

Hold everything I need. Using for college and I could transition the bag as a work bag.

I use it for work and anytime I need to have my laptop and iPad on me (a lot of the time). I love how the laptop sleeve has a false bottom so when you place the laptop in the backpack it doesn't accidentally knock the surface the backpack may be resting on. I use the sleeve next to the laptop sleeve for files, and it has enough space for everything I need without being too big or too small. Comfortable, no worries. I'm not thinking about having any other backpack - it suits my needs perfectly.

Great product, an upgrade from my old surge!

Nice quality backpack. Hoping it lasts my daughters through high school. Perfect size.

Very spacious backpack, has tons of pockets that are easily able to hold everything I need it to. Big plus is that the side water bottle pockets fit my 32 oz yeti water bottle

Perfect size. Good amount of pockets for organization. Comfortable to wear around.

I use it everyday

perfect for bike commute

This is the second backpack I have purchased for my son. He has had the first one for several years. It lasted him through some schooling and two year mission in Bolivia where he wore it every single day. It is still in great condition. He just wanted a new one for Christmas.

This backpack is a perfect combo of functionality, comfort, and durability as all TNF backpacks. The main compartment easily fits my son's laptop, books, and other essentials, while the multiple smaller pockets keep everything organized.

I bought for my husband after I had gotten the women's version for myself. Will work perfectly for travel and taking electronics.

Exactly what I wanted. Lots of space and fits my gear just right.

I bought the Surge Backpack for my 18yo nephew. He is about to graduate from high school, so I was looking to buy a bag that could be used for college, travel, gym and possibly work. As you know, there are many travel backpacks to choose from, but his sister has a North Face backpack that she has used for several years and highly recommended North Face bags. He opened the bag on his birthday and it has many storage pockets, roomy interior and it's made of a durable material. It's a hit!!!!

My son uses it daily for school