Disclaimer: I own a base camp duffel in size small and base camp travel canister. Nothing bias, just facts.
Without any announcements, The North Face has finally updated their base camp duffel and no one seems to notice (except for user reviews). Here is my take on the new base camp duffel.
The base camp duffel have been popular for those who are adventurous, hikers, travelers, and just needed a durable duffel bag. Due to it’s water resistance, nylon straps, and weight, it is no wonder many have bought these. They come in XS and to XL sizes.
Pros
- More cushion on shoulder pads
- front side zipper compartment
- handles on all sizes
- thicker handles
Cons
- removable of top handle
- still no inside pockets
- no interior cinches
- still same shoulder strap design
Shoulder pads – The old (left) duffel had padded support but it was thin. This has been greatly improved on the new one, which is more thicker (right).
Side zipper compartment – All of it’s rivals have this for a few years now and The North Face has finally added it. This is practical and will be used a lot. Sizes XS and S have zipper as shown below. Sizes M to XL has a top zipper, which is a bigger compartment and internal mesh pocket inside compared to size XS and S.
No interior changes – Nothing has change in the interior part. no cinches additional pockets.
Handles – the old had one single webbing handle. New one had double webbing.
Missing Top Handle – This is the biggest change of them all. Gone are the top handles and North Face decided to make the user use the shoulder straps be the top handle. This is not only problematic but impractical.
In conclusion, the changes that North Face has brought will affect the user, especially to those who have been loyal to these bags. For better or for worse, it will be up to the user if the improvements are enough to purchase the new one.
I for one is not happy with the changes, especially the top handle. Top handle should have been kept as many of their competition still have them. This duffel should’ve lot of improvements based on user feedback but The North Face did not listen. I think they should have added interior pockets, interior inches and easy removable shoulder straps.
The question now is, will I buy the new one? No.
Is there an alternative, which is better? Yes.