Gear Review: Distance 1500 Headlamp By Black Diamond
Looking for a headlamp that’s lightweight but built for real mountain use? The Black Diamond Distance 1500 delivers 1500 lumens, reactive lighting, and rechargeable flexibility. Read our full review of this powerful headlamp built for runners, climbers, and hikers.
Black Diamond Distance 1500 Headlamp: Ultralight Power for Big Mountain Missions
When your adventures start before sunrise or don’t end until well after dark, having a reliable headlamp isn’t optional—it’s essential. The Black Diamond Distance 1500 is a high-powered, ultralight headlamp designed for alpine starts, long trail runs, multi-day pushes, and just about any adventure where weight matters and performance can't be compromised.
With a whopping 1500-lumen output, reactive lighting that adjusts to your surroundings, and a modular battery system, the Distance 1500 isn’t just another headlamp—it’s a precision tool for high-output missions in the mountains.
What Makes It Special
The Distance 1500 is made with Black Diamond’s Reactive Lighting Technology, which automatically adjusts beam intensity based on your surroundings. Whether you're scanning a dark ridgeline or reading a map at camp, it gives you the right amount of light without manually cycling through settings.
It uses a modular battery pack that mounts at the back of the head, keeping the weight balanced and the front of the headlamp lightweight. Even better—it works with both a rechargeable battery and standard AAA batteries, so you’re never stuck in the dark when your rechargeable dies on the trail.
Designed with alpine athletes and ultra-distance runners in mind, the Distance 1500 weighs just 150g (5.3 oz) and comes with a comfortable, bounce-free headband. It’s water-resistant (IP67), meaning it’ll hold up in rain and snow, and the whole thing packs down small enough to fit in a jacket pocket.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Max Output | 1500 lumens (Reactive lighting mode) |
| Lighting Modes | Reactive, standard, dim, strobe, red night vision |
| Battery | Modular rear battery pack (rechargeable) + AAA compatibility |
| Weight | 150 g / 5.3 oz (with battery) |
| Burn Time | Up to 40 hours on low, 7 hours on high |
| Beam Distance | Up to 120 meters |
| Water Resistance | IP67 (submersible up to 1 meter for 30 mins) |
| Extras | Lock mode, battery level indicator, comfortable bounce-free strap |
| MSRP | $99.95 USD |
Pros and Cons
Black Diamond Distance 1500 Headlamp: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-bright 1500-lumen output for serious night use | More expensive than standard headlamps |
| Reactive lighting adjusts automatically—no fiddling | AAA battery compatibility is a backup, not a full-power option |
| Rechargeable + backup battery flexibility | Might be overkill for casual hikers |
| Lightweight and comfortable for long-distance wear | Battery pack on the back may not be everyone’s favorite |
Final Thoughts
If your adventures take you into the early morning hours, late-night summits, or just into seriously remote terrain, the Black Diamond Distance 1500 is a headlamp you can count on. It’s bright, smart, and thoughtfully designed for folks who rely on gear that works without fail.
Sure, it’s pricier than a basic headlamp—but it’s also in a whole different category of performance. Whether you're a backcountry skier, a mountain runner, or an alpine hiker chasing big days, this headlamp is an all-season powerhouse.
My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
