Swiss Gear Vs North Face (The Definitive Guide)

By Unlock Wilderness

5th January 2024

Are you on the hunt for the perfect bag for your travels, hikes, or daily commute? When it comes to trusted and reliable brands, Swiss Gear and North Face are two of the biggest names in the game. But which one comes out on top?

In this article, we break down the key similarities and differences between Swiss Gear and North Face to help you find the perfect bag for your needs. Grab your popcorn and settle in for the ultimate showdown – Swiss Gear Vs North Face!

This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate we earn commission from qualifying purchases.

Swiss Gear Vs North Face

Materials Used

When choosing a backpack for your outdoor adventures, one of the most important considerations is the materials used to make it. Swiss Gear and North Face are two popular brands in the backpack industry, and both offer quality bags made from different materials.

Swiss Gear bags are known for their durability and lightweight construction. They are made from materials such as polyester and nylon, which provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. These materials are also water-resistant, which means that your belongings will stay safe and dry even in the rain. Moreover, Swiss Gear bags are also designed with reinforced handles and straps, so you can carry heavy gear with ease.

On the other hand, North Face bags are made from higher quality materials like rip-stop nylon and Cordura. Rip-stop nylon is a type of nylon fabric that has a reinforced grid pattern, making it resistant to tearing and ripping. Cordura, on the other hand, is a heavy-duty fabric used in military gear and outdoor equipment, known for its exceptional strength and durability. North Face bags made from these materials offer superior protection against wear and tear, making them ideal for more extreme outdoor activities.

In conclusion, both Swiss Gear and North Face offer excellent backpacks made from quality materials. If you’re looking for a lightweight, durable backpack for everyday use, a Swiss Gear backpack would be a great option. On the other hand, if you plan to embark on more rugged outdoor adventures, a North Face backpack made with rip-stop nylon or Cordura would be a better choice. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Design Features

When it comes to choosing between Swiss Gear and North Face backpacks, one of the most important considerations is the design features. Both brands are known for creating high-quality and functional bags, but they focus on different aspects of design.

Swiss Gear bags are all about practicality and versatility. They are designed to meet the needs of busy travelers and outdoor adventurers with features like adjustable straps and multiple compartments. The adjustable straps are perfect for customizing the fit of your bag to ensure maximum comfort, no matter how heavy your load is. Additionally, the multiple compartments make it easy to organize your gear and keep everything in its place. This is particularly useful for people who need to carry a lot of equipment or travel with bulky items.

On the other hand, North Face bags combine functionality with style. They offer sleek and modern designs that are perfect for people who want to stand out while staying practical. The ergonomic straps are designed to minimize strain on your shoulders and back, making them ideal for anyone who wants to carry their bag for extended periods. While North Face bags don't have as many separate compartments as Swiss Gear bags, they do offer smart storage solutions that ensure your gear is easily accessible.

In conclusion, Swiss Gear and North Face backpacks are both great options for anyone looking for a high-quality and functional bag. If you prioritize practicality and versatility, Swiss Gear bags are your best bet. However, if you want a bag that combines functionality with style, North Face is the way to go. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal needs and style preferences.

Price Range

When it comes to choosing a backpack or a durable bag, price is always a crucial factor. If you're on a budget, you'll want to find a backpack that offers both quality and affordability. Similarly, if you're willing to invest in a high-quality bag that lasts a long time, you'll want to find one that's worth the cost. In this section, we'll compare the price ranges of Swiss Gear and North Face bags to help you decide which one is right for you.

First, let's talk about Swiss Gear. Swiss Gear offers a wide range of backpacks and bags at an affordable price point. These bags are ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want quality and functionality without breaking the bank. Swiss Gear bags are usually priced between $40 and $150, with most bags falling in the $60 to $100 range. This price range is great for students, travelers, or anyone who needs a reliable bag that won't add too much to their expenses.

On the other hand, North Face bags are marketed as high-end products that offer superior quality and durability. While the price point may be higher than Swiss Gear bags, many North Face fans believe that the investment is worth it. North Face bags are usually priced between $80 and $300, with most bags falling in the $120 to $200 range. Although these bags are more expensive, they are designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable and reliable bag that can withstand harsh conditions.

In conclusion, Swiss Gear bags are generally more affordable than North Face bags, making them a great choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, North Face bags are worth the investment due to their superior quality and durability. When choosing between the two brands, consider your needs and budget, and choose the bag that suits you best.

Customer Reviews

When it comes to choosing a backpack, it's always helpful to hear what other customers have to say. Luckily, both Swiss Gear and North Face have plenty of satisfied customers out there.

According to the reviews we found, Swiss Gear bags are known for their durability and functionality. For many customers, their Swiss Gear backpacks have held up to years of heavy use without showing any signs of wear and tear. Several reviewers also mentioned that these bags are great value for money, with plenty of useful features at a reasonable price.

On the other hand, North Face bags tend to get high marks for their quality and stylish designs. Many customers appreciate the attention to detail that goes into each bag, from the sturdy construction to the sleek design options. For outdoor enthusiasts in particular, North Face bags are often a go-to choice for their combination of function and fashion.

Of course, everyone's needs are different when it comes to picking a backpack. Some people prefer a bag that's all about practicality, while others are willing to pay a bit extra for a bag that looks great as well. No matter what you're looking for, though, it's clear that both Swiss Gear and North Face have plenty to offer.

Swiss Gear Vs North Face All Round Backpacks

When it comes to all-round backpacks, both Swiss Gear and The North Face offer excellent options. If you're trying to decide between the two brands, let's take a closer look at their offerings.

Swiss Gear's 5505 Laptop Backpack is a great choice if you're looking for a backpack to get you through a day's work or school. It comes with three compartments, including one for laptops, and has a padded, breathable ergonomic suspension system. With 27.3 liters of volume, it's an excellent all-round backpack that compares favorably with The North Face's Borealis Backpack.

The North Face's Borealis Backpack is a classic best-seller for good reason. It has a large main compartment for books and binders, a protective laptop compartment, and front compartment with internal organization. It also features a FlexVent™ suspension system, articulated shoulder straps, and rounded back panel for comfortable carrying.

Both backpacks have external pockets for water bottles, and offer compression options for keeping your items secure. The Borealis Backpack has a sternum strap with a whistle buckle and removable waist belt, while the 5505 Laptop Backpack has a mini loop for hanging and a front panel web vista loop for attaching a blinky bike light or reflector. Overall, both brands offer comparable features and functionality across their all-round backpack range.

To decide between Swiss Gear and The North Face, consider your personal style and needs. The Borealis Backpack has a range of colors and even a women-specific version available. Swiss Gear's 5505 Laptop Backpack also comes in different colors, but has a less distinctive look overall. Think about the features that matter most to you—perhaps you want a backpack with reflective strips for night visibility, or one with a dedicated sunglasses or phone pocket.

In the end, both Swiss Gear and The North Face offer great all-round backpacks. It comes down to what you're looking for, whether it's specific features, style, or brand loyalty.

5505 Laptop Backpack by Swiss Gear

SHOP ❤ Check price on swissgear.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Get organised and stay cool with this functional backpack.

What makes it special? This Special Edition backpack is perfect for students who are always on the move between classes and study group meetings. With three compartments, including one specifically designed for laptops, this backpack can accommodate most 16" portable computers. The second compartment provides additional storage space and even has a dedicated tablet pocket. The third front compartment is a handy organizer with dividers for smaller items like pens and keys. The backpack also has a padded, breathable ergonomic suspension system which ensures that you stay cool while carrying it. You can even put that cold drink in either of the two stretch mesh side pockets. And if you're travelling, the add-a-bag feature allows your bag to slide over the extended handle of wheeled luggage. With 27.3 liters of volume, the Swiss Gear 5505 Laptop Backpack is an excellent all-round backpack that compares favorably with the North Face backpacks.

Find the best price on Swissgear

Borealis Backpack by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Carry your load in style and comfort with this versatile backpack.

What makes it special? It's a classic best-seller, and for good reason. One of the Borealis Backpack's defining features is its iconic bungee cord system. It's not just for looks; it actually helps keep your items secure both inside and out. You can also take advantage of the external bungee-compression system with clips to help you stay organized. And with side and bottom compression options, you'll be able to fit everything you need for your on-the-go lifestyle. The backpack has a large main compartment that's perfect for books and binders. There's also a dedicated laptop compartment that's protective and secure. The front compartment is organized with secure-zip pockets and a padded tablet sleeve. Plus, there's even an external, fleece-lined pocket for your sunglasses, phone, or keys. Comfort is key with the Borealis Backpack, and the FlexVent™ suspension system is certified by the American Chiropractic Association. The backpack has articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, comfortable stitch lines, and soft-touch chemise fabric. It's designed to help you carry your load in comfort while you're on the go. Not only is the Borealis Backpack functional, it's also stylish and reflective. It comes in a range of colors and even has a women-specific version available. And with 360-degree reflectivity, you'll be visible in low-light conditions.

Find the best price on Thenorthface

Swiss Gear Vs North Face Laptop Backpacks

When it comes to laptop backpacks, Swiss Gear and North Face are both solid brands with plenty of options to choose from. Let's take a closer look at their offerings and see how they compare.

Swiss Gear's 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is a durable and practical option for those in need of a reliable backpack for their laptop and other gear on the go. It boasts a dedicated laptop compartment with adjustable divider designed to fit most portable computers up to 17 inches in size. The backpack also has a floating TabletSafe tablet pocket, multiple internal accessory pockets, and side accessory and water bottle pockets. One of the standout features of this backpack is the Unobstructive ScanSmart lay-flat design, which allows for easy and quick laptop-in-case scanning through TSA X-ray machines.

On the other hand, the North Face Recon Backpack is a versatile daypack that's perfect for students, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It also has a dedicated laptop compartment, a front compartment with secure-zip pockets and a padded tablet sleeve, and an external fleece-lined pocket for your phone or sunglasses. The backpack is also equipped with a stand-up design, daisy-chain webbing that offers lash points, and 360-degree reflectivity for increased visibility in low light. The FlexVent™ suspension system, certified by the American Chiropractic Association, is also a standout feature of this backpack.

So, which brand should you choose? Ultimately, it depends on the features that matter most to you. If you value TSA scanning convenience, a large main compartment, and multiple internal accessory pockets, Swiss Gear may be the better choice for you. If a versatile daypack with plenty of storage options is more your style, the North Face Recon Backpack may be a better fit.

Both brands offer quality and durability that you can trust, so it's really a matter of personal preference and needs. Take a close look at the features and decide which brand and product offer what you need to carry your laptop and gear efficiently and comfortably.

1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack by Swiss Gear

SHOP ❤ Check price on swissgear.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Efficient travel-friendly laptop backpack.

What makes it special? Made from durable 1200D ballistic polyester fabric, this backpack can keep up with even the toughest daily commute or adventure. One of the standout features of this backpack is its Unobstructive ScanSmart lay-flat design, which allows for easy and quick laptop-in-case scanning through TSA X-ray machines. This feature makes it perfect for those who frequently travel by air, as it helps speed up the security process. The backpack is also equipped with a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit most portable computers up to 17 inches in size, as well as a floating TabletSafe tablet pocket. There are multiple internal accessory pockets to help keep small items organized, and an accordion file holder to keep documents tidy. When it comes to comfort, Swiss Gear doesn't skimp. The backpack features padded, ergonomically contoured shoulder straps with built-in suspension, breathable mesh fabric, and a sunglasses holder loop. The back panel is also padded with Airflow ventilation technology for superior support and ventilation. Additional features of the Swiss Gear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack include adjustable compression straps to secure your bag contents, side water bottle pockets, side zippered large accessory pockets, a padded media pocket, a reinforced molded top handle, and a front carabiner and web daisy chain for added convenience.

Find the best price on Swissgear

Recon Backpack by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Comfortable and versatile backpack with dedicated laptop compartment.

What makes it special? The Recon Backpack boasts a large main compartment that can fit books and binders, a front compartment with secure-zip pockets and a padded tablet sleeve, and an external fleece-lined pocket for your phone or sunglasses. It's also equipped with a protective dedicated laptop compartment that will keep your device safe and sound on the go. This backpack is packed with features that make it comfortable to wear and easy to access your essentials. The FlexVent™ suspension system has articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, comfortable stitch lines, and soft-touch chemise fabric. You'll be able to wear this backpack for hours without experiencing any discomfort or strain. Other noteworthy features include a stand-up design, daisy-chain webbing that offers lash points, and 360-degree reflectivity for increased visibility in low light. The YKK® zippers are easy to grab and the padded top grab handle is comfortable to hold. It also has a sternum strap with a whistle buckle and a removable waist belt to help distribute the weight of your belongings evenly. It's perfect for students, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Find the best price on Thenorthface

Swiss Gear Vs North Face Duffel Bags

If you're in the market for a durable, high-quality duffel bag, both Swiss Gear and The North Face have a lot to offer. Here's an in-depth comparison of their product ranges, using the reviewed bags as examples.

When it comes to Swiss Gear, their 6067 21" Garment Duffel Bag is a versatile and practical option for anyone who needs to transport business attire or other delicate garments. It converts into a hanging garment bag, features internal sleeves for shoes and personal items, and has a large front zip pocket and two external side pockets. It's also designed with a back trolley strap for easy mobility.

On the other hand, The North Face's Base Camp Duffel offers a 71-liter capacity and legendary durability, making it the go-to choice for outdoor adventurers and extended expeditions. Made with 100% recycled materials, it features removable, adjustable shoulder straps, double-stitching, bartacks, and a water-resistant Base Camp material. It also has a D-zip opening with a weather-resistant, zippered flap, secure-zip mesh pockets, and four compression straps for easy organizing.

So which brand should you choose? If you're looking for a versatile bag that can also serve as a garment bag, Swiss Gear is a great option. However, if you're an outdoor enthusiast or need a bag for extended expeditions, The North Face's Base Camp Duffel is the clear winner.

Overall, both brands offer high-quality, durable duffel bags that are designed to meet different needs. Determine your specific needs, consider your budget, and choose the brand that offers the features and functionality that best fits your travel or outdoor adventure.

6067 21" Garment Duffel Bag by Swiss Gear

SHOP ❤ Check price on swissgear.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Streamline your business trips with this versatile duffel and garment bag.

What makes it special? . This bag is the perfect solution for anyone who needs to pack and transport suits, dresses, or other garments without worrying about wrinkles or creases. One of the standout features of this bag is its ability to completely unzip and convert into a hanging garment bag, complete with a foldable hanger hook. This means you can pack your outfits flat and then easily hang them up when you arrive at your destination. The bag also has internal shoe and personal item sleeves to help keep you organized. The Swiss Gear 6067 21" is also spacious enough to hold up to three days' worth of outfits, making it ideal for short business trips or weekend getaways. It has a large front zip pocket and two external side pockets for storing travel essentials and accessories, as well as a back trolley strap that lets you attach it to your luggage handle for easy mobility.

Find the best price on Swissgear

Base Camp Duffel by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

The ultimate durable and sustainable duffel bag for your adventures.

What makes it special? Not only is it made with 100% recycled materials, but its durability has become a legend in the industry. With a 71-liter capacity and compression straps, this duffel offers plenty of room for an extended trip. And thanks to its removable, adjustable shoulder straps, it's ergonomic and easy to carry without twisting or straining. The Base Camp Duffel also features double-stitching, bartacks, and a water-resistant Base Camp material that's built to withstand the elements. Plus, its zippered flap and secure-zip mesh pockets add extra organization for easy access to your essentials. And with its eco-friendly and sustainable materials, it's also a responsible choice for the planet.

Find the best price on Thenorthface

Final Verdict

In conclusion, Swiss Gear and North Face are both excellent choices for bags, each with their own unique strengths and features. Both brands are well-known for their high-quality materials, durable construction, and functional designs that cater to a variety of lifestyle needs.

At the end of the day, the choice between Swiss Gear and North Face ultimately boils down to personal preferences, needs, and budget. Do you prioritize storage capacity, style, or weather resistance? Do you need a bag for everyday use or outdoor adventure? How much are you willing to spend?

Regardless of which brand you choose, it's important to remember that bags are an investment. They should be built to last, versatile enough to adapt to your changing needs, and practical enough to make your daily life easier.

So whether you're heading to work, hitting the trails, or traveling the world, rest assured that both Swiss Gear and North Face have got your back. It's up to you to choose the one that resonates with you the most.