Black Diamond Distance 4 Review

Bottom Line

The Black Diamond Distance 4 is a thoughtfully designed, minimalist hydration vest that takes you from training to race day seamlessly, making it an excellent choice for runners seeking a versatile vest. This second-generation version is crafted from stretchy material that hugs the body for a fit with no bounce and no chafing. Available in both men’s and women’s versions—featuring a gender-specific running harness suspension—it accommodates most runners bodies.

We found this vest to excel in every metric during our testing on trails around Bellingham, Washington. Whether loaded for a half-day run or with just the essentials for a shorter session, the Distance 4 provided great organization, a comfortable fit, and excellent performance.  

Details like an over-the-shoulder Z-pole carry system, easy-access side and front pockets, and dual flask pockets (along with included HydraPak® SoftFlasks™) make this vest the perfect choice for runners seeking a versatile hydration and storage solution.  

Discover more great options in our Best Running Vests gear guide.

And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:

How We Tested

We tested the Black Diamond Distance 4 Hydration Vest on various runs along mountain trails in the Pacific Northwest. We used it for daily training and half-day excursions.

Comfort & Fit

We were impressed by the overall comfort and body-hugging fit of the Distance 4. Whether fully loaded or just carrying a few essentials, it fit well and didn’t bounce. We consistently reached for this pack, regardless of the length of our run. The adjustable sternum strap harness system was secure and didn’t loosen during our runs.

The women’s specific version provided a more streamlined fit across the shoulders and chest. Each option is available in several sizes, making it easy to achieve a perfect fit. The four-way stretch mesh fabric moved with us, keeping the contents of the stash pockets secure without ever feeling constrictive.

Unlike some mesh, the Black Diamond fabrics are soft and chafe-free, even when wet. We also found the soft binding of the harness system to be very comfortable without digging in.

Functionality

With easy-access pockets on the front and side access to the lower back pocket, the Distance 4 offers highly functional storage options on the go. The biggest functional drawback we discovered during testing was that the over-the-shoulder Z-Pole carry system was a bit tricky to use while running, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker.

That minor inconvenience aside, we were pleased with the overall functionality of this vest. The 4-liter capacity was just enough to hold our calories and gear for several hours, yet it wasn’t floppy or noticeable when mostly empty on shorter runs. We also appreciated the zip pocket in the front for securing valuables.

The two included Black Diamond HydraPak SoftFlasks integrate into the front pockets, and the elastics help keep them from bouncing and sloshing. However, during our testing, we found that the flasks had a slight tendency to leak.

Performance

The no-bounce fit of the Distance 4 made it a favorite among our testers. We appreciated the secure buckle closures that kept us from fussing with a shifting pack while on the go. 

The inclusion of front and back zip pockets provided safe places to store valuables. During our training runs in the Pacific Northwest, this vest never held us back. We could clip in and go. 

The high-stretch fabric moved with us without being constrictive, enhancing the overall security of fit and storage.

Durability

Despite the lightweight materials, we noticed no signs of wear even after many training runs on trails in the Pacific Northwest. However, we do have some concerns that the stretch pockets may lose their shape over time.

It’s worth noting that Black Diamond provides a practical lifetime warranty covering defects in materials and construction, which gave us confidence in the quality of this vest.

Breathability

The Distance 4 was one of the most breathable packs we tested. Its all-mesh construction wicked moisture and transferred heat away, even during wet runs in the Pacific Northwest’s notoriously rainy winter.

We stayed cool and comfortable during intense sessions in warmer weather, thanks to the open weave of the back panel. Black Diamond has designed this vest in lighter colorways to keep both the contents and the wearer cool on hot, sunny days.

This attention to detail further establishes this vest as a top choice for a wide variety of runners in all training and racing conditions.

Should You Buy the Black Diamond Distance 4 Hydration Vest?

This breathable, lightweight, fully-featured pack offers excellent versatility for anyone searching for a hydration and storage solution for race day and training. Its adaptability ensures it’s in constant use, providing exceptional value per wear.

The thoughtfully designed, easy-access pockets supply ample storage for all your essentials—from snacks to valuables to hydration. The comfortable, no-bounce fit promotes seamless performance. This functional, high-performance pack is available in women’s specific models and various sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit.

Exceptionally breathable and light-colored for temperature regulation in hot weather, as well as soft and chafe-free in wet conditions, the Distance 4 will quickly become your go-to pack, no matter where you run.

What Other Hydration Packs Should You Consider?

If the Black Diamond Distance 4 Hydration Vest isn’t quite what you’re looking for, check out these other great options from our Best Running Vests gear guide.

Salomon ADV Skin 5 Review: If you’re looking for a mid-volume running vest with a secure fit and long-lasting durability, this 5-liter Budget Buy may be the pack for you. 

Ultraspire Alpha 5.0 Race Vest Review: Flask-compatible and fully featured, this 6-liter Budget Buy vest is one of the most comfortable and highly breathable vests we tested.

Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest Review: With integrated straw-top flasks and buttery smooth fabrics this vest is an ultralight solution to storage and hydration on the go.