What is the Black Diamond Distance 22 Running Backpack?
The Distance 22 is a hybrid mountain pack built for long alpine objectives, technical terrain, and fast-and-light overnights. Combining the vest-style suspension of a running pack with the load-bearing capability of an alpine pack, it offers stability, comfort, and efficient movement even when carrying extra gear.
What is it made of?
UHMWPE Ripstop Body Fabric
The main body is constructed from a custom ripstop blend of 87% recycled nylon, 7% UHMWPE, and 6% recycled polyester. UHMWPE delivers exceptional tensile strength and abrasion resistance, forming a tear-resistant fabric ideal for rugged mountain environments. Recycled nylon and polyester provide flexibility, durability, and low water absorption, ensuring the pack remains lightweight and non-clingy even in wet conditions.
Diamond Mesh Lining
The back panel and harness are lined with 100% polyester diamond-pattern mesh engineered for airflow, comfort, and moisture management. Its open structure enhances ventilation, while soft hydrophobic fibres wick sweat efficiently and prevent irritation during high-output movement.
Smooth Edge Binding
All contact areas feature smooth-edge binding — a soft, low-profile finish that eliminates chafing and friction. This increases next-to-skin comfort during long runs, warm-weather outings, or continuous motion over technical terrain.
What are its features?
Stitchless Edge Taping Technology
Using Stitchless Edge Taping Technology (SETT), the Distance 22 removes traditional seams and replaces them with bonded edges. This reduces weight, bulk, and friction while improving flexibility and overall comfort.
Unisex Fit
The contoured harness offers a close, stabilised fit suitable for a wide range of body types. Its vest-style suspension distributes weight evenly across the chest and shoulders, maintaining balance and mobility on steep or uneven terrain.
Compression System
A dual compression setup — side and front tension straps — allows you to secure your load tightly. This minimises bounce and enables volume adjustment to match your gear setup.
Z-Pole Carry System
Integrated Z-pole sleeves provide fast, on-the-go stowage and deployment of trekking poles. The system positions poles close to the torso to reduce movement and maintain stability during transitions.
Smart Storage Options
The pack includes a variety of accessible, balanced storage compartments:
- Two side stretch stash pockets for bottles, gloves, or layers
- Large front stretch woven pocket for a helmet, shell, or quick-access items
- Two zip and two stretch pockets on the shoulder straps for nutrition, phone, or essentials
- Internal zip pocket with key leash
Each pocket is positioned for efficiency and stability on the move.
Hydration Compatibility
Dual front holsters fit two 500ml soft flasks (not included). Positioned for quick access, they hold bottles securely to minimise bounce and maintain a stable centre of gravity.
Piolet Carry System
Dual piolet attachments allow secure transport of ice tools or technical equipment, expanding the pack’s utility for alpine or shoulder-season missions.
Features:
- Harness with Stitchless Edge Taping Technology for seamless comfort and reduced weight
- Vest-style suspension for bounce-free stability
- Custom UHMWPE ripstop body fabric for strength and abrasion resistance
- Dual compression system for adjustable load control
- On-the-go Z-pole carry system
- Dual piolet carry system for technical terrain
- Large front stretch woven pocket for additional gear or helmet
- Two soft flask pockets (flasks not included)
- Two zip and two stretch shoulder strap pockets
- Two side stash pockets and one internal zip pocket with key leash
- Reflective details for low-light visibility