Why We Like The Black Diamond Distance 15L Backpack
Blurring the line between running and ridge scrambling, the Black Diamond Distance 15 Backpack is a hybrid pack that combines an alpine-worthy daypack with shoulder straps similar to running vests. There are two pockets for soft flasks, two smaller pockets for nutrition, and another zippered pocket for keys or cash. The shoulder straps utilize Black Diamond's stitch-less Edge Taping Technology to eliminate chafing and promote ventilation, while the back panel also ventilates, wicks moisture, and dries quickly for active comfort high up in the mountains.
Details
- Hybrid daypack with vest-like design for trail running and hiking
- Burly ripstop fabrics are extremely light and durable
- Quick-access top opening with slack pocket to tuck cording
- Water-resistant main compartment helps keep gear dry
- Running vest-style straps for close-to-body fit and mobility
- Ice tool and trekking pole attachments for alpine missions
- Small, accessible pockets to keep gear and snacks at hand
- Item #BLDZ9VY
This item is made with PFAS chemicals and cannot be shipped to some states. View Shipping Policy
- Material
- UHMWPE ripstop
- Volume
- 15L (915cu in)
- Shoulder Straps
- contoured
- Waist Belt
- yes
- Access
- top
- Pockets
- 2 soft flask, 1 zippered, 2 stretch shoulder strap
- Ice Axe Carry
- yes, dual
- Trekking Pole Carry
- yes, Z-Pole storage and sleeve
- Compression
- dual side
- Claimed Weight
- 12.7oz
- Activity
- hiking, trail running
- Manufacturer Warranty
- 1 year
Reviews
Q&A
What do you think about this product?
Overall Rating
4.5 based on 57 ratings
Review Summary
Customer Images
Here's what customers have to say
The backpack offers a lightweight and comfortable design with a snug fit to minimize bounce during activities. It provides ample storage space with multiple pockets for efficient organization. The pack is water-resistant and durable, featuring useful features like a pole carry system and ice axe holders. However, some users noted issues with the lack of adjustability in the shoulder straps, the finicky top closure, and the potential for the mesh straps to tear. While a few experienced durability problems over time, most reviewers are highly satisfied with the versatile and high-performance design of the backpack.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews.
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Selecting an option will reload the available reviews on the pageOctober 7, 2025
Overly Utilitarian
A solid and considered pack that is little more than a single large pocket with pockets on the shoulder straps. Yet it does this will aside from a few glaring flaws. The pouches in the main compartment point out a few of these issues. First I still haven't found a dedicated exit site for a bladder hose. Also the ditty/key pocket is too low by a few inches. Protection of the main opening should have an additional rain cover similar to the Creek Climbing packs. Also if not fully loaded of cranked down the closure regularly unhooks. The shoulder strap pockets should be an industry standard. Their designs are highly functional. The vertical/water bottle pockets are massive. They will hold a 24oz cycling bottle easily. A major flaw is the zipper/phone pocket. It sits outside the water pocket or away from the body. I would suggest moving this against the body instead. The reasons being, to reduce challenging the zipper with a full bottle pocket underneath. Plus making it easier to slide things in and out under the same set up. I highly encourage making sure the fit is correct as the shoulder straps don't adjust. This is a strength and a weakness. Less to break as they well sown but all the adjustment is in the chest straps. I found the sizing to be accurate for my purchase. A huge plus is the compression straps for the pole stash pockets. When the pack is not full the effectively reduce the contents from bouncing around. Likewise the pack flopping about. The welds for the anchors and the rings should hold up long term. Haven't messed around with the included quickdraw pole holder. Seems contrived. Overall, its utilitarian but light/packable and seems durable. I will be taking it into the mountains at pace until it falls apart.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
October 7, 2025
Best pack for longer outings when you might need more stuff
I bought the this in addition to the Distance 8. I was going to choose one but kept both. As the weather turns or on longer hikes I can put a down sweater and more things I need for the mountains in the 15. I’ve tried several other ways of carrying my stuff from waist belts to my hands. This vest carries all the rain gear, snacks, water and small things I need for a run in the mountains in Montana. The HydraPak ultraflask speed 500ml fit the front pockets. You can put a bear spray canister in one if needed. For longer outings you can put a 1. 5 liter bladder in back too. The Distance 15 cinches down tightly in back and doesn’t bounce like a regular small backpack. Overall I’m super happy with this running solution. (Yes, I did cut and paste part of this review from my Distance 8 review). If I could add one thing it might be a stretchy pocket on the back of the bag for quick stuffables. Not a deal breaker though. The 15 adds dual piolet carry. I’m imagining this will be a great back for off track cross country skiing too.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
October 2, 2025
The only day pack you need
This is by far the best backpack I have owned for day hikes. It can easily hold a water bladder, rain pants, jacket, and lunch. Plus you can put additional water flasks up front if you want to. Its snug fit is really comfortable and I like not having a hip/waist strap—it isn’t necessary at all. The top closure is a little finicky if the bag isn’t stuffed full, but not a huge issue. It’s simple and minimalist, but don’t let that fool you.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
September 21, 2025
Shoulder-strap tears easily
Unfortunately these packs have a design flaw. The shoulder-straps are made of a thin mesh that tears very easily, and all that protects them is a narrow glued-on hem. If the hem ever separates then the rest of the strap will tear all the way through. I've had two of them and they've both failed in the same way. Black Diamond offers a "lifetime" warranty, but apparently they consider that the lifetime of these packs is only two years.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
September 20, 2025
Distance 15 Backpack
Stable, comfortable, and tough — the vest-style fit keeps bounce down even on scrambles or runs. Fifteen liters is just right for layers, food, and alpine gear, though the chest pockets are tight and it’s more water-resistant than waterproof. Great choice if you want a fast, durable pack that can handle big mountain days.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
August 30, 2025
Z pole Carry System - little help?
Can someone please explain how to use (or remove) the Z pole carry system? There’s a big dangly thing at the top of the pack that’s not intuitive at all, and I don’t see the bottom part of the system either.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
August 9, 2025
Game-changer
This thing is an ultralight beast that “packs” a real punch. I use it for running, hiking, and mountaineering and the pack is an absolute workhorse that’s so light it feels like a natural part of my body.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
January 13, 2025
Awesome
Light weight, feels like it’s not there while running. This is how every running pack should be
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
January 11, 2025
My first impressions
A very multifunctional backpack. Very light. My height is 184 cm, I need to get used to putting it on and taking it off, I would take a little more volume for myself. Not considering my size preferences, this is a great backpack.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
December 25, 2024
Good built quality, but shoulder straps is non-adjustable
Overall good quality backpack for outdoor activity. However, I wish it had longer, or adjustable shoulder straps.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
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