REASONS TO BUY
Highly versatile
Comfortable
Durable
Water resistant
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Less comfortable when empty
Volume can easily go unused
Black Diamond Distance 15 Review
For overnights and dirty bivies, this is the pack that will allow you to go far comfortably
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Price: $180 List
By Matthew Richardson ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Jun 30, 2023
Our Verdict
The Black Diamond Distance 15 is our go-to for quick overnights and self-supported ultras. The single main compartment allows for easy packing and accommodates irregularly shaped items well. A stiff outer material and the padded back panel provide pack rigidity, preventing ballooning. The two main methods of pole storage are unique, and both have their benefits. We recommend this pack for those who plan to truly utilize the space. The more open design does have its drawbacks, as internal contents are more prone to bouncing. We found we could comfortably carry and run with 10 pounds. This is truly a single-quiver daypack if you want one pack to rule them all. Get the skinny on how it stacks up against other top products in our review of running hydration packs.
Editor's Note: This review was updated after a full retest of the newest version of the Distance 15 on June 30, 2023.
Compare to Similar Products
 This Product
Black Diamond Distance 15 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awards |  Best for Technical Overnights |  Best Overall Running Hydration Pack for Men | Best for Access on the Move | Best for Going the Distance |  Best Bang for the Buck |
| Price | $124.37 at Amazon Compare at 3 sellers | $112.50 at Amazon Compare at 3 sellers | $189.99 at Amazon Compare at 3 sellers | $165.00 at REI Compare at 3 sellers | $100 List $99.95 at Backcountry |
Overall Score  |
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| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | Among the most capable packs we've tested, but sometimes the volume can be overkill | For big days in the mountains, this vest is capable, dependable, and comfortable | For a pack that has 12L of storage space, we are amazed at how accessible the pockets are | A top-notch running pack, with excellent pockets and a comfortable fit | Affordable, capable, and comfortable, this is a great entry into hydration packs |
| Rating Categories | Black Diamond Dista... | Ultimate Direction... | Nathan Pinnacle 12L | Salomon ADV Skin 12... | Salomon Active Skin 4 |
| Comfort (30%) | |||||
| Features (25%) | |||||
| Hydration System (15%) | |||||
| Volume-to-Weight Ratio (15%) | |||||
| Pockets (15%) | |||||
| Specs | Black Diamond Dista... | Ultimate Direction... | Nathan Pinnacle 12L | Salomon ADV Skin 12... | Salomon Active Skin 4 |
| Measured Weight (Without Hydration System) | 12.8 oz | 6.5 oz | 7.5 oz | 9.0 oz | 6.9 oz |
| Advertised Carrying Capacity (Volume by Liter) | 15.0 L | 10.3 L | 12.0 L | 12.0 L | 4.0 L |
| Advertised Included Liquid Capacity (Volume by Liter) | 1.0 L | 1.0 L | 1.6 L | 1.0 L | 1.0 L |
| OGL Volume-to-Weight Ratio (Bigger Is Better) | 1.17 | 1.58 | 1.60 | 1.33 | 0.58 |
| Total Number of Pockets (Including Hydration) | 10 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 7 |
| Included Water Storage | None | Two 0.5 L Body Bottle III soft flasks | 1.6 L insulated hourglass reservoir | Two 0.5 L soft flasks | Two 0.5 L soft flasks |
| Optional Water Storage (Not Included) | Reservoir compatible up to 2 L and two soft flask pockets | Reservoir compatible up to 2.0 L | Two soft flasks up to 0.53 L/ea | Reservoir compatible up to 1.5 L | Reservoir compatible up to 1.5 L |
| Available Pockets | 2 soft flask/stash pockets, 2 stretch shoulder strap pockets, 1 zip pocket, 1 reservoir compartment with hook, 1 internal zip pocket with key clip, 2 pole sleeves, 1 main cinch-closure compartment | 2 cinched flask/stash pockets, 2 front stretch pocketes, 1 water-resistant chest zip pocket, 1 water-resistant shoulder stash pocket, 2 rear lat zip pockets, 1 water-resistant back zip main compartment, 1 back stash pocket, 1 rear reservoir sleeve | 4 front flask/stash pockets, 2 water-resistant chest zip pockets, 1 interior key/pill pocket, 2 side stash pockets, 1 back stash pocket with velcro tab, 2 rear kangaroo stash pockets (1 side access and 1 side + vertical access), 1 large back diagonal zip pocket, 1 reservoir compartment with velcro tab | 2 bilateral front flask/stash pockets with elastic loops, 2 bilateral side stretch pockets, 2 bilateral front zip pockets, 2 shoulder stretch pockets, 1 interior trash pocket, 1 large back zip compartment, 1 rear dual-entry tunnel pocket, 1 top stretch pocket, 1 insulated rear reservoir sleeve with hook | 2 front flask/stash pockets with elastic loops, 1 front zip pocket, 2 front stretch pockets, 1 rear reservoir compartment with hook, 1 back zip compartment |
| External Storage Options | Dual-side bungee | Back bungee | None | Dual-side bungee | Back bungee |
| Pole Holders | 2 side storage sleeves, dual piolet compression laces | 4 hooks and bugee loops (front or back closure) | 1 vertical entry rear kangaroo pocket | Elastic bungees and loops (front and rear options), custom quiver compatible | Custom quiver compatible |
| Extra Features | Adjustable torso straps, safety whistle, loops, left and right hose exit ports, side compression | Comfort cynch system, adjustable torso straps, bungee loop for flask, shoulder port for hose, key clip | Adjustable torso straps. loops/hose guides, whistle, reflective detailing | Torso cinch system, hydration flask loops, dual side compression laces, safety whistle, interior key clip, reflective loop for light, bottom hose port and shoulder guide | Torso cinch system, safety whistle, loops, elastic key clip, bottom hose port and shoulder loops/guides |
| Sizes Available (Size Tested) | S, M, L (M) | S, M, L, XL (M) | XS, S, M, L, XL (S) | XS, S, M, L, XL (M) | XS, S, M, L, XL (M) |
| Additional Capacity Options (Included Hydration) | Distance 4 L (1 L), Distance 8 L (none) Distance 22 L (none) | N/A | Pinnacle 4 L (1.2 L), Pinnacle Featherlite 1.5 L (0.4 L) | ADV Skin 5 L (1 L) | Active Skin 8 L (1 L), Active Skin 12 L (1 L) |
| Gender Specific or Unisex | Men's (women's model available) | Men's (women's model available) | Men's (women's model available) | Men's (womens model available) | Unisex (women's model availale) |
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Our Analysis and Test Results
Black Diamond takes inspiration from their successful climbing and skiing backpacks and brings this mountain heritage into the design of the Distance 15. This running pack is built for long mountain missions, and it has the durability and water resistance to withstand almost any adventure. The 100D ripstop exterior is stiff and not form-fitting, but paired with a well-designed chassis and adjustment straps across the ribcage and chest, it makes for a comfortable, secure suspension. Dual quiver pole sleeves, two ice axe attachments, ample storage in the chest pockets, and 15 liters of carrying capacity make the Distance suitable for fast-packing outings, quick approaches to the crag, or commuting to work. Versatility is the name of the game with this pack, but it excels at long mountain running most.
Performance Comparison
15 liters is plenty of storage for a simple lightweight overnight - here our lead tester Matthew carries all he needs in the Distance 15.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Comfort
With a large blitz pocket on the back, we had immediate concerns about weight distribution and bounce with this pack. Recently updated, the Distance 15 now has independent flank pockets on both sides like other high-volume hydration vests. Improved pockets also are easier to access and more adequately cover soft flasks for a secure fit. The running harness is comfortable and no longer features the side adjustment. A wrap design securely snugs your back and sides and is similar to what is seen on smaller storage vests.
We found that this pack's comfort was best if we limited the weight to about 10 pounds. While it can carry more, the light harness starts to dig into the skin. Rigidity in the back panel minimizes items protruding from the back, and the open design accommodates more irregular items. You will achieve the least bouncing by properly filling the pack to around its desired volume or by packing insulating layers.
With improved contours, the Black Diamond Distance 15 is one of the most comfortable packs we tested especially when considering the amount of weight it can comfortably carry.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Two closures across the sternum and lower ribs can be repositioned to the best point of comfort, accommodating more body types. We like the upper static closure and lower elastic closure, which provide snug comfort while still allowing breathing room. Our only complaint with the comfort is that the bottom can feel slightly too rigid when filled. This pulls on the side compression, stretching out the harness and making it slightly less comfortable.
Side compression is a one-piece knit design that provides good compression without being overly snug. We prefer this setup to the previous design which featured an adjustable side strap.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Features
Simplicity is one of the main selling points of the Black Diamond pack lineup, and this creates increased flexibility across a wide range of activities. The singular main compartment allows for packability and storage that is spacious and consistent. This design means the pack can accommodate larger and stiffer items more easily. Think stove, climbing gear, and crampons. Other packs that use stretchy fabric must use slimness and tension to pull the pack tight. While this creates a great bounce-free silhouette, it lacks packability for items that don't naturally compress.
The on-the-go pole storage design on the Distance 15 is the best we've seen and allows the poles to be securely stowed and removed. This uses a similar mechanism to common ski mountaineering packs — poles don't clutter up the front of the vest, but you can still access them without removing the whole pack.
Here our lead tester Matthew demonstrates the on-the-go pole storage system. This design mimics the ski carry found on ski mountaineering race packs.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
For those times when you want an easier solution, you can use the Z-Pole pouches. These dedicated pockets give easy entry, security, and removal on the go. You'll have to remove the pack to stow the poles, so this method is best when breaks are frequent. Two ice axes can also be attached — the shaft of the axe is securely held by side compression straps, which can also accept clothes or outerwear.
On-the-go removal from the Z-pole pouches is easy and quick. If you go straps up it will be even easier to find a purchase giving your hands something to pull on.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Hydration System
Our previous gripes with the hydration system on the Distance 15 have been fixed, upgrading this pack in our lineup. The soft flask pouches have been extended and raised to interfere less with front storage. This allows for easy removal and placement and prevents the need for closures. The zippered pocket is slanted, so a phone or other objects interfere less with the bottle. There is also a hydration sleeve and port to allow users multiple options, although we prefer flasks.
It's worth noting that this pack does not come with flasks. While this could be a gripe for some, we are happy that Black Diamond is reducing potential waste for users who already have too many. Given the raised height of the pockets, 500-700ml flasks are ideal with this pack.
Improved front pockets move the flaks higher and delete an overlapping pocket that we previously didn't like. This new version is easy to access and use even while on the move.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Volume to Weight Ratio
The Distance 15 scored well here. The updated version is slightly heavier, but we think the comfort outweighs this impact. Still, this pack feels featherweight for a 15-liter running pack that is far more durable than the standard. We think that between the volume of this pack and its durability, users will love how light it is and how much gear weight it can carry.
This packed volume is about the max for consistent, comfortable running. Ultimately how the pack feels will come down to what you carry. The Distance 15 is best for overnights and ultra-endurance events or self-supported missions. In our opinion, it carries just enough of a margin for safety in high-alpine environments.
Pockets
A large, fully waterproof main compartment with a blitz opening (quick pull) simplifies accessing all of the gear you need to protect from moisture. Inside that main compartment is a mesh zipper pocket for storing valuables. Seven other pockets are located on the shoulder straps, with a secured zipper pocket higher up on each shoulder and two slanted mesh pockets on each strap intended for snacks, headlamps, gloves, and soft flasks.
The new pocket material is stretchier and more secure, with the slanted side pockets being our favorites. The outer external shell does a great job of shedding water, but the breathable external back panel does tend to transfer moisture. While there is not as much up-front storage as some of the competition, we like the streamlined nature of the front and don't wish for anything extra.
The slanted pocket on the front of the vest is perfect for a phone because it minimally interacts with the soft flask pocket behind.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Should You Buy the Black Diamond Distance 15?
There is inherent value in a pack as versatile as the Distance 15 because you will likely use it for far more than just running. With a comfortable and ergonomic shape and constructed of durable materials, you have a lot of carry options. This pack has gotten more daily use than any of the other bags we've tested, rendering it a high-value option in our minds.
What Other Running Hydration Packs Should You Consider?
While we love the Distance 15 for mountain and trail usage, we'd recommend the Salomon ADV Skin 12 for those looking to carry slightly less with more running comfort. The Skin 12 is more suitable for a long day, but for running overnighters or bivy usage, there is no greater pack in our lineup than the Distance 15. If your needs are less technical and you want to save some bucks, check out the REI Co-op Swiftland 5.
For overnight running missions or technical terrain there is no better hydration running pack than the Black Diamond Distance 15.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
—Matthew Richardson
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