Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. The North Face Surge
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 43×23×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 96% |
| Price | $175 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | The North Face Surge |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | 2 |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 0 |
| back | Passport | front |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| removable | Hip Belt | removable |
| Y | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| N | Laptop | 15in |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2, side | Water Bottle Holder | 2, side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500d Cordura | 210D recycled nylon ripstop with non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish |
The North Face Surge
| Capacity | 31 L |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×31×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 89% |
| Price | $140 |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the North Face Surge are two distinct carry-on backpacks designed to meet different needs. The Tarahumara is a light, compact, and durable bag made of 500D Cordura. Weighing in at only 0.7 pounds, it makes for a perfect day hiking pack. Its 16-liter capacity may appear modest, but as many users attest, there's an impressive amount of space on the inside. Defined by its simplicity and sturdiness, the Tarahumara is a reliable investment, built to last a lifetime. It is also compatible with all airlines, adding to the flexibility and convenience.
- Hill People Gear Tarahumara:
- Dimensions: 44 x 24 x 10 inches
- Weight: 0.7 lbs
- Capacity: 16 liters
- Airlines Compatibility: 100%
- Material: 500D Cordura
- Laptop Compatibility: No
On the other hand, The North Face Surge is a heftier alternative with a larger capacity. Its capacity of 31 liters practically doubles that of the Tarahumara. Though it comes at a weight penalty of 1.26 pounds, the Surge's dimensions (50.8 x 17.8 x 30.5 inches) cater to users with bigger loads. Constructed from , the Surge does not have a built-in laptop compartment. However, it is important to note that the Surge is not compatible with all airlines.
- The North Face Surge:
- Dimensions: 50.8 x 17.8 x 30.5 inches
- Weight: 1.26 lbs
- Capacity: 31 liters
- Airlines Compatibility: 80%
- Material:
- Laptop Compatibility: No
Ergonomics aside, the widest gulf between these two backpacks is found in their design and functionality. The Hill People Gear Tarahumara's simplicity and time-tested design portfolio make it a perfect all-rounder. Being compatible with all airlines is a significant advantage for those frequently on the go. For those seeking larger storage space and unfazed by compatibility with less airlines, the North Face Surge fits the bill.
To conclude, both the Tarahumara and the Surge are solid backpacks built for purpose. Your final choice depends on what you need the most – the lightweight and versatile Tarahumara or the high-capacity, if somewhat heavier, Surge. These are both bags that perform their roles excellently. The ultimate decision not only relates to their respective features and capabilities but to the specific requirements and expectations of the user.