What is the Black Diamond Women’s Distance 8 Running Backpack?
The Women’s Distance 8 is a female-fit trail running and fastpacking pack that blends the agility of a running vest with the storage capacity of a compact hiking pack. Designed for high-output mountain days, its stretch mesh “wings” wrap the torso for a secure, bounce-free fit that moves seamlessly with your body. From alpine ridge runs to summit scrambles, it keeps hydration, poles, and essentials accessible without slowing you down.
What is it made of?
UHMWPE Ripstop Body Fabric
The main body uses a custom-developed ripstop blend of 87% recycled nylon, 7% UHMWPE, and 6% recycled polyester. UHMWPE provides exceptional tensile strength and abrasion resistance, creating a tear- and snag-resistant fabric suitable for fast-moving mountain missions. Recycled nylon and polyester add flexibility, durability, and low water absorption, preventing the pack from becoming heavy or clingy when wet.
Diamond Mesh Lining
A 100% polyester diamond-pattern spacer mesh lines the back panel and harness. Engineered for airflow, cushioning, and sweat management, it promotes continuous ventilation across high-contact zones. The soft, hydrophobic fibres wick moisture efficiently, preventing irritation and maintaining comfort during long or intense efforts.
Smooth Edge Binding
All contact areas feature smooth-edge binding — a soft, low-profile seam detail designed to eliminate friction and chafing. This enhances next-to-skin comfort during long-duration or hot-weather movement where repetitive motion can cause irritation.
What are its features?
Stitchless Edge Taping Harness
The harness employs Stitchless Edge Taping Technology, replacing bulky seams with bonded edges to reduce weight and pressure points. This creates a sleek, contoured fit that feels like a second skin, maintaining stability without restricting movement.
Women’s Fit
Tailored for smaller frames, the pack features a shorter back length, narrower shoulder spacing, and sculpted strap shaping. The shoulder straps curve away from the neck and upper chest, reducing pressure on sensitive areas and improving balance and comfort during running, hiking, or scrambling.
Z-Pole Carry System
Integrated Z-pole sleeves allow fast stowage and deployment of trekking poles without removing the pack. Positioned close to the body, the poles stay stable with minimal bounce, supporting smooth transitions between running and climbing.
Smart Storage Options
The pack provides efficient, well-balanced storage, including:
- Two large side stretch stash pockets for layers or gloves
- One internal zip pocket with key leash for valuables
- Three shoulder-strap pockets (one zipped, two stretch) for gels, a phone, or navigation tools
Each pocket is placed for quick reach and even weight distribution.
Hydration Compatibility
Front-mounted holsters fit two 500ml soft flasks (not included), holding them snugly to reduce bounce and maintain a stable centre of gravity while allowing easy hydration on the move.
Compression and Carry
Dual side compression straps let you fine-tune pack volume for minimal carry or full-day loads, improving stability and balance. An integrated piolet carry system adds technical capability for alpine or shoulder-season objectives.
Features:
- Women’s fit
- Harness with Stitchless Edge Taping for superior comfort
- Stretch mesh “wings” for secure, chafe-free movement
- Custom UHMWPE ripstop body fabric for durability
- On-the-go Z-pole storage system
- Dual side compression for adjustable capacity
- Two soft flask pockets (flasks not included)
- Front zip and stretch pockets on shoulder straps
- Two side stash pockets and one internal zip pocket with key leash
- Piolet carry for technical mountain use
- Reflective details for visibility in low light