Black Diamond
Distance 22
For fast overnight bivy missions, peak bagging and everything in between.
Photo: Maroon Bells summit attempt - Andy Timinsky
By: Andy Timinsky - Chief Editor
All reviews are my own and never persuaded by companies. Gear is also purchased from my own money.
I strive to give my honest, best and real opinion.
9.0
OVERALL
RATING
Price: $229.95 usd
Weight: 400 g
Volume: 22 L
Favorite features: Running pole sleeves built into the pack. 2 x (500ml) soft flask sleeves
on the front of vest, multi-sport pack.
Dislikes: Vest pulls shirt up while running, soft flasks not included.
The Black Diamond Distance 22 is a pack that gets me excited every time I load it up. Its 22-liter capacity strikes the perfect balance for longer outings—though for quick, fast runs, it can feel a bit roomy. I’ve tested it on epic adventures, from a 650-mile bike-packing trip along the Great Divide to multi-pitch climbs in Yosemite, ski tours, and countless local hikes. Here’s a closer look at what makes it shine—and where it could be better
Photo: Yosemite's Cathedral Peak Summit via Southest Buttress - Credit: Erika Bell
Durability: 9.0/ 10
The UHMPE ripstop body fabric has far exceeded my expectations considering how many miles, dirt and sweat it's received. Although I did manage to rip the fabric closing system after stuffing a 70 meter climbing rope into it. Black Diamond Warranty Department sent me a new one with no questions asked. As for the stretch fabric on the vest suspension, there's a few holes from tree branch snags and some stitching coming apart in one area. This vest/pack is by far the most durable one I've used compared to other options like the Salomon Advanced Skin 12, which is my favorite distance running vest but not the most durable and wouldn't be my go-to for larger mountain objectives.
Failed fabric from stuffing a 70 meter climbing rope inside
Fit: 9.0 / 10
At a 42" chest, broad build and 185 pounds the size large fits well around my chest. The pack sits a bit lower on my back compared to a typical "running style" vest which sits up high. It also feels better when the pack is stuffed with snacks, layers and emergency gear compared to when it's bare bones. As for running the pack tends to pull my shirt up above my waist on my back. This isn't my first choice for a non technical day in the mountains like the Salomon Adv Skin 12 or UltrAspire Mountain Race Waist Belt. It's better suited for those technical pursuits when you need layers, headlamp, multiple liters of water and thousands of calories/ carbs with running, hiking and rock scrambling. For the womens pack Erika is a 33" chest and wears the size medium which fits her great. She wore her's on the entire Great Divide Mountain Bike Route 2,700 miles.
Photo: Trail run up to Mt. Whitney Portal Trailhead - Credit: Erika Bell
Features: 9.0 / 10
- 2 x 500 ml flask (not included) pockets on the front vest (they fit snug but not too tight)
- 2 liter water bladder internal storage w/ hanging clip
- Z pole storage sleeves built into side of main pack
- Dual compression straps / great for tightening down my compartment
- Dual piolet storage
- UHMWPE Ripstop fabric
- Body: 87% recycled nylon, 7% PE, 6% recycled polyester
- Internal small zippered pocket with key clip
Front view with 2 x 500 ml flasks and 6 gels
The bad:
- While running the vest pulls rear shirt up after a few miles
- Expensive: At the current price of writing this $229.95 usd
Conclusion:
If you’re into hiking, running, rock climbing, or bike-packing and need a pack that excels on ultralight mountain missions, the Black Diamond Distance 22 is an excellent choice. It’s designed for fast-moving adventures while carrying just the essentials. I frequently rely on this pack for a variety of outings. While I haven’t yet used it for an overnight trip, I’ve packed it for one and fully intend to put it to the test on an overnight adventure this summer.