Thule Subterra vs (Paramount, Chasm & Aion)

Having the right travel backpack can help us carry our devices and essentials conveniently anywhere. While there are way too many backpacks to choose from, our comparisons will break down their essential features for you. Today, we will look at the Thule Subterra vs Paramount, Chasm, and Aion models to see what leads in which category.

Quick Navigation

• Overview Table
• Thule Subterra vs Paramount
• Subterra vs Chasm- Thule
• Thule Subterra vs Aion
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Overview Table

Backpacks	Pictures	Storage	Fabric
Subterra Check On Amazon		40 L	800D Nylon
Paramount Check On Amazon		27 L	420D Nylon
Chasm Check On Amazon		26 L	840D Nylon
Aion Check On Amazon		28 L	Waxed P600 Polyester Canvas

Thule Subterra vs Paramount

Commons

Since both bags are made for diverse uses, they hardly have any features in common. However, both have a main compartment with multiple pockets to keep your stuff organized.

Another common ground is their top pocket for small objects. They also have a hidden compartment to store valuables and your passport.

Differences: Paramount vs Subterra

Subterra is a bigger backpack, so it has the dimension of 8.2 x 13.7 x 21.6 inches. On the other hand, Paramount measures only 13 x 10.6 x 19.7 inches.

Perhaps due to the variation in their dimensions, the former also has a greater carrying capacity. Subterra can carry up to 40 liters of stuff in volume, while Paramount can only carry up to 27 liters.

The Paramount model weighs less, with a total weight of 1.2 kg. On the other hand, Subterra weighs nearly 1.6 kg. It is not a drastic difference considering the gap in the capacities of the two.

Plus, Subterra boasts a better fabric for its shell and body- 800D nylon. Paramount uses 420D nylon as its material, which is also good. However, 800D wins in sturdiness, weather resistance, and overall durability.

The Subterra model is a convertible pack that can be a backpack, shoulder bag, or on top of a carrier. The straps also disappear completely inside the bag while not in use. This conversion is not possible for Paramount since it is a regular backpack.

Subterra has a laptop and tablet sleeve, which you can completely remove from the pack and carry on its own. Paramount also has a laptop and tablet compartment, which can open from the top and side providing ease of access.

A magnetic flap in the Paramount bag can fasten over areas that need weather protection. Paramount also has YKK zippers and a reflective finish on the body. Paramount has a total of 5 pockets on the exterior of the pack, while Subterra has 3.

Moreover, the Paramount bag boasts a water bottle pocket absent in Subterra, with a shoulder strap slip pocket. Paramount has a mesh back and straps that provide ventilation combined with comfort.

On the other hand, Subterra has some unique features, like an internal PowerPocket to organize your cords and earphones. To boot, it boasts multiple grab handles to carry the bag at many angles.

Additionally, it has a pass-through panel to fit it over your luggage. It also meets the carry-on baggage requirements for maximum airlines.

Also Read: Thule Accent vs Crossover

Thule Chasm vs Subterra

Commons

They have organizing pockets and mesh slots in the main pocket. Plus, both have a top pocket with a soft lining to keep small items like your phone, charger, etc. Besides them, both bags do not share any other common grounds as they are intended for varying purposes.

Differences: Subterra vs Chasm

Chasm is the smaller pack with dimensions of 8.3 x 11.8 x 21 inches. Subterra boasts dimensions of 8.2 x 13.7 x 21.6 inches. Hence, Chasm can only carry up to 26 liters while Subterra can carry up to 40 liters, providing more storage space.

However, Chasm has the advantage of being the lighter pack with a total weight of 1 kg. Subterra weighs around 1.6 kg instead.

Chasm has a superior fabric- Phthalate-free TPE laminate 840D nylon. It is slightly sturdier and abrasion-resistant than the 800D nylon Subterra uses which is also ideal. Chasm is cheaper than Subterra, most probably due to its dimensions and carrying capacity.

Chasm has mesh padded shoulder straps and a back panel with a sternum strap. They contour well to the body and provide ample support. It has additional features like a water bottle pocket, daisy chains, bike light loop, etc. These features are not accessible in the Subterra pack.

Chasm’s laptop sleeve is accessible from the top and side zippers. Subterra’s laptop sleeve can be completely detached from the pack, however.

Also Read: Adidas Prime vs Trefoil

Thule Subterra vs Aion

Commons

The bags include a water bottle pocket and a top pocket with a soft lining to keep small items safe. They also have a trolley sleeve so that they fit snugly on top of your luggage handles while traveling.

Differences: Aion vs Subterra

Their first difference lies in the varying dimensions. Aion measures 11 x 9.1 x 18.5 inches, whereas Subterra measures 8.2 x 13.7 x 21.6 inches. Hence, Aion can also carry lesser items, having a total capacity of up to 28 liters. Subterra wins in this category as it can carry up to 40 liters in volume.

Aion wins the weight battle as it weighs only 1.2 kg, is lightweight, and is easy to carry. However, Subterra weighs around 1.6 kg, which is not too heavy either.

Aion boasts the material 100% recycled waxed P600 polyester canvas for its body and shell. Subterra uses recycled 800D nylon, which maxes out on sturdiness and longevity. The first fabric comes with optimum water resistance and durability.

Aion is cheaper than Subterra, though not by a huge difference, which is surprising considering its capacity. Since Aion has some added design features, it goes head-to-head with Subterra in terms of pricing.

Subterra is flexible as it can be a backpack, shoulder pack, or even stay on top of your luggage. Aion is flexible as it can turn from a 28-liter to a 32-liter bag.

Both have laptop pockets, though Aion’s laptop sleeve opens fully to provide easy access. Subterra’s laptop sleeve is fully detachable from the pack to use separately.

Aion’s additional features include TPU dividers for organization, external stash pockets, daisy chains, etc. It is also a Bluesign-certified backpack, like other types in the Aion series.

Subterra’s unique features include a PowerPocket, side & bottom handles, a hidden passport pocket, etc. Aion is also compatible with the Aion sling bag to double as a hip belt, though you must buy them individually.

Also Read: Bellroy Sling vs Venture

Conclusion

The bags we have covered are very diverse, and they would fit the needs of almost anyone. Yet, they still have unique features which may attract distinct users. So, you can match your expectations to the bags to get the best choice for you.

Subterra may be expensive, but it is the most functional pack out of the four. Chasm is quite the opposite, with maximum affordability and moderate features. Aion and Paramount do not fall far behind as they boast unique qualities while being close to the middle price point.

FAQs

Is Thule Subterra Waterproof?

The Subterra bag model, like most other packs from the brand, is water-resistant. No bag can offer absolute protection from water, but it can resist water from light to moderate rains. You can purchase a rain cover if you wish to add more protection.

Which Is The Most Popular Thule Backpack?

While our individual opinions on the backpack may differ, most people agree that Subterra and Aion are superior & popular. They are versatile, sturdy, functional, and great-designed bags by the brand.

Is Thule A Good Brand?

Yes, users often prefer Thule bags as they love the attention to detail the brand provides. Plus, its bags mostly come from recycled material, making them an environmentally conscious producer.