I have both a survival and an original. The original is much lighter and only has the two cargo pockets. The survival has two cargo pockets which are removable and is noticeably heavier. These cargo pockets have smaller pockets to their outside. In addition it has slit pockets, a back pocket, and a key clip. I feel much more comfortable with my survival in the wind than with my original. The material is different too. I believe the original is a poly cotton mix, and the survival is all cotton. The survival wrinkles much more readily that the original. Wearing the survival definitely feels like you are wearing a lot more material than the original. It is nice to have all that pocket space though. I haven't tried it yet, but i think the survival would be right at home camping or on overnight hiking trips. The original is a good wear it out for a beer kilt to me.