Black Diamond Distance 4 Vest
In a running vest, size is critical. Too baggy, and you risk stroopwafel-shaped bruises from the contents of your pack bouncing off your lumbar for miles on end. Too tight, and you won't be taking a full breath. Black Diamond has tackled this issue with 3 different sizes in their new Distance 4 vest. This second-generation running vest also has first-class accommodations thanks to a thoroughly thought-through design. Two included 500 mL soft flasks fit perfectly in their pockets without interfering with access to other stash pockets. Need a jacket on the fly? Just reach back and BOOM, easy access thanks to the lumbar stretch pocket. Want some food? Pull from either quick-access side pocket or a zippered front pocket. Looking for a comfortable companion for your mountain adventures? Don the Black Diamond Distance 4 Vest on your next run.
- On-the-go Z-pole storage for efficient trekking pole use.
- High-stretch side panels keep your gear snug no matter the jostling.
- An innovative harness layout combined with soft, flexible edge bindings keeps you comfortable even when fully loaded.
- Removable micro-whistle hidden in the front zippered pocket.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
|
Pack |
180g [M] |
| Volume | 4L |
| Front Storage | 2 stretch pockets 1 zipped pocket 2 flask pockets |
| Rear Storage | 1 stretch pocket w/ 2-side access 1 zipped pocket Reservoir sleeve w/ hanger |
| Pole Attachment | Cross carry on back |
| Hydration Included | 2x 500 mL soft flasks |
| Whistle | Yes |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| SkyRun Says | |
| Usage | Race day, shorter days on the trail |
| Notes | Layout designed to work efficiently |
| Bottom Line | Multiple sizes will help any runner dial in the right fit |
| Compare to other Running Packs | |
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Questions & Reviews
5/20/2025
I use 750mL flasks on the front of my vest, they're a little fatter & longer than a standard 500mL flask, and have a round bottom. Think they'd fit? Or are the 500s already pretty snug?
5/20/2025
Hi Bobby,
You'll be able to fit them! Whether that much weight in the front of the vest will run well or not is a different question (it might bounce a bit), but it should fit. We can fit 750ml bike bottles in the flask pockets.
You'll be able to fit them! Whether that much weight in the front of the vest will run well or not is a different question (it might bounce a bit), but it should fit. We can fit 750ml bike bottles in the flask pockets.
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2/4/2025
Talmage Bryson
(downright abused product)
Great vest! Light, breathable, comfortable, and just the right amount of features. I often avoid wearing a vest because I like feeling free and light. This one feels like your wearing nothing. The fabric is incredibly comfortable. I tend to have somewhat sensitive skin to fabrics and can wear this vest without a shirt on and have had no issues with rashes or chafing. There is the perfect amount of pockets. Up front you have one zippered pocket perfect for holding your phone. I have an IPhone 13 Pro (the smaller version) and it fits it perfectly. Just small enough that it doesn’t bounce- but not so small it’s a pain to flake your phone out to switch to that next episode of The Singletrack Podcast. There is also two nutrition pockets that hold your nutrition quite securely. The back panel zippered pocket is perfect for your phone and keys and headlamp. The bottom pocket fits an extra layer, gloves and extra nutrition or a flask perfectly. Finally, the quiver style carry works great! Low bounce, comfortable and easy to take your poles out without taking of the vest. However, you do have to take of the vest to stow the poles. Then there is the two flasks. They work perfectly with the black diamond packs. However for some reason they never work with anything else. The flask caps are the best ones I’ve ever used! However. I don’t love how soft and pliable they are as they can be a bit awkward to hold to drink or spray water over the dome on a hot day. They way they are sown together is a bit irritating. There perfect if you never take them out of the vest so it’s not a big deal. In terms of the stability of the the vest, I did find that the pack bounced a bit when the flasks are full. Keep in mind that I have a somewhat unusual upper body. I have quite wide shoulders ( a men’s medium fits perfectly) but a narrow waist/low chest (around a men’s size xs) a 29 fits my waist perfectly- anything bigger I need a belt. I bought a size small in this pack and the chest is great but the lower is a bit loose- even with the elastic front buckle cinched down. I think this cause the top of the back to bounce vertically when running.
Comment on this review:
5/4/2024
Hi,
What are the differences between this second generation pack versus the original?
Just a styling change, or are there material/functional changes as well?
Thanks!
What are the differences between this second generation pack versus the original?
Just a styling change, or are there material/functional changes as well?
Thanks!
5/4/2024
Hey Cole, the primary difference in the current pack is the pocket layout which seems to be a bit more thought out. The current Distance 4 Vest also seems to have a bit of stretchy material throughout the vest as well.
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