Our Take:

The fastest of the Distance Pack Line, the Distance 6 represents a refinement of minimalism and efficiency. When speed is the ultimate metric in your mountain pursuits, the Distance 6 allows you to just get by with the essentials. An extra layer, plenty of snacks and included 500ml x2 of water carrying capacity. Add in a Katadyn BeFree water filter and your legs will give out before your water supply does.

This is an excellent piece of kit for trail races, speedy ascents on Mount Mansfield and daily training runs. The revised fabric composition has made this piece incredibly breathable so overheating is not an option.

We love this pack as our go-to for run club with the Stowe Trailheads, Mountain Biking at the Adams Camp trails and longer mountain efforts in fair weather. If the weather conditions call for a bit more layering or you are venturing further, check out the Black Diamond Distance 15 Pack.

What Black Diamond Says:

For endurance missions that require extra gear and food, the Distance 6L run vest provides the perfect balance of going fast and light while carrying the crucial gear you need.

The vest’s lumbar pocket gives you ample room to stash a lightweight shell, extra snacks, and a headlamp. The Distance 6L’s edge binding and diamond mesh construction gives the vest a soft next-to-skin feel. The mesh back panel is extremely breathable and made from a soft material that eliminates chafe. Thoughtful pocketing and innovative soft flask storage system provides security for on-trail essentials and improves efficiency when refilling water. The vest has two front pockets that fit two 500 mL soft flasks (included).