Black Diamond Distance 15 backpack review

Black Diamond is an American mountaineering equipment manufacturer specialized in climbing and ski touring equipment since 1957. In recent years, speed hiking, alpine running, scrambling & co. have become more popular and the boundaries between climbing, hiking and trail running have been blurred. Mountain fans, who like to travel fast in remote and alpine terrain, generally need more equipment, which was previously packed in a (larger) normal running vest or in a (smaller) classic backpack. Black Diamond combines the best technology of both running vests and alpine packs in the Distance 15 backpack. It includes vest-inspired suspension for running, and a time-tested alpine pack design for carrying a variety of tools for mountain adventures.

The Distance 15 – A new backpack category for outdoor fans

In June I had the opportunity to test the Distance 15 and took the backpack for mountaineering at the Garmisch Classics (Eckbauer, Kreuzjoch, Wank, Stepbergalm, …), as well as on a simple mountain hike in Slovakia. Unfortunately, I could not manage longer, more technical trips in steep terrain with high trails in the test period, although the backpack is designed primarily for these activities. The advantage of this backpack, which actually can or should be called a vest, lies in its versatility, as it creates a new category for outdoor fans. A practical running vest with 15 liters packing volume.

Viewed from the front, the Distance 15 reminds me to the trail running world: Small elastic compartments for fast handling on the go. Flasks, granola bars, mobile phone and gloves have enough space. I especially liked the zippered bag where (my) phone just fits in well and does not mess around.

Is the backpack water resistant? Yes!

Unlike you would expect from the front, the Distance 15 from the rear is more reminiscent of a hiking backpack. The large main compartment is made of waterproof fabric, the opening can be rolled up and can be attached and closed with a hook on the back. Underneath is another layer with an integrated safety compartment for important small items, which can be tighten at the upper edge of the opening with a waistband to keep out moisture. Although the inner layer is not completely covered by the upper layer, no rain came inside the backpack, even if it has heavily rained on test day. Despite the raindrops gathering on the backpack, the waterproof material was convincing and did not let moisture through.

Distance 15 backpack – The good fit offers high comfort

Inside, behind the elastic partition, a Camelback can be attached and small items, such as valuables can be stowed separately in a zip pocket. On the outside of the Distance 15 are two unobtrusive ice tool holders and two Z-pole compartments for stowing trekking poles when they are not needed.

The backpack can be compressed while wearing, with rubber bands on both sides. I was able to adapt the Distance 15 to my upper body easily by tightening and loosening the elastic cords. The fit (in my case size M) was very convincing, as it offered ideal comfort for me (193cm, 76 inch) as well as for my hiking colleague (175cm, 69 inch). The Distance 15 also adapts to the weather-related different clothing. Whether with a shirt, several thin layers or a rain jacket he was comfortable to wear. Whether empty or packed he was never too loose or too tight for me. At the front, it is closed with two height-adjustable straps with simple buckles, which also contribute to a good fit. The buckles seemed robust and easy to handle.

More possibilities with more packing volume

Although my slow runs or quick hikes in the early summer did not require just 15 liters of volume, for me this volume was not too much. Thanks to the above-mentioned characteristics and a very good and light back padding the wearing comfort is good. In addition, a larger packing volume still has a margin in terms of the tour complexity. So you could still take a light climbing equipment or more food, drink and clothing. Therefore, the distance 15 is also suitable for the colder seasons. In my opinion the backpack is very useful in long-distance or bad weather competitions, self-sufficient races or very technical routes. If you like the concept of the Black Diamond Distance 15, but do not need so much packing volume, you can use the 8l variant, the Distance 8.

Balck diamond distance 15 -Conclusion

In my view, Black Diamond has developed a solid hybrid backpack / vest, which is geared primarily for longer trails in the mountains, but also very good to use instead of a “typical” running vest. The main advantages are the flexibility, the great fit, the comfort and the water resistance. I did not find any major disadvantages during my test phase, but you should remember that you have to put down the backpack to stow or remove things in the large main compartment. But that was to be expected with this construction. The Black Diamond Distance 15 has convinced me and I am looking forward taking it with me for longer trips to the higher mountains soon.