An absorbent article including an absorbent core having a fluid distribution layer and fluid storage layer, the fluid distribution layer being formed of two or more sublayers. A first sub-layer has a first amount of multiple component binder fibers or crosslinked cellulose fibers, or a combination thereof. A second and/or subsequent sub-layer comprises treated or untreated pulp and a second amount of multiple component binder fibers, crosslinked cellulose fibers, or a combination thereof. The % by weight of the first sub-layer of the first amount of multicomponent binder fibers and/or crosslinked cellulose fibers is greater than the % by weight of the second or subsequent sub-layer of the second amount of multiple component binder fibers and/or crosslinked cellulose fibers.
