It's not a matter of the distro but rather what kernel version you're running. There are also a few projects out there that are outside of the kernel tree for whatever reason, such as the original MadWiFi driver (which uses a proprietary low-level driver between the actual hardware and the open-source interface code that plugs into the kernel, and thus can't be included).
There are a couple of routes you can go here. The first would be a high-level look, such as with the Linux Hardware Compatibility HOWTO which you can find at
http://tldp.org/HOWTO/Hardware-HOWTO ; however, that's a little out of date now with the last revision over a year ago. Another method I use is to Google the device name along with "linux" and see what pops up; it helps a LOT if you can find out what chipset it actually has under the hood. This is the method I usually use. Finally, there's the authoritative method which is backwards: look in the kernel sources. Specifically, look at the various options in the wireless menus (there are a couple of locations) to see what's supported, and possibly visit their maintainers' web sites. The problem with this is that drivers that are not included in the kernel, as I mentioned above, won't be here and you'll be missing out on some supported hardware.
I hope this helps you out.
Mike
