Gear Review: Buff Headwear

05 May Gear Review: Buff Headwear

When it comes to my most favorite thing that I love to wear on a bike tour, or even on a camping or hiking trip, it’s got to be my Buff. This simple, yet versatile, piece of gear has been an incredible asset on my packing list when I travel. I was first introduced to it by The Path Less Pedaled. At first, I wasn’t very impressed with it until I saw how versatile this cylindrical cloth can be. You can use it in all sorts of ways.

What is It?

The original Buff comes in all sorts of colors and patterns. It is made out of elastic microfiber material and the edges are seamless so it doesn’t come undone or fray. It does not irritate your skin while wearing it. I actually went and bought the merino wool version in favor of the warmth that wool provides in both wet or dry conditions, as well as the fact that wool takes a while before it begins to stink (very useful on bike tours when you don’t have laundry facilities in between days). It’s super light and packs away very well.

How To Use It

Here is a video highlighting some ways of using it.

[youtube=https://youtu.be/UWDu1HVsR3M]

As you can see from the video, you can use it for a multitude of things, including:

• Neck scarf
• Face mask
• Full face balaclava
• Helmet liner
• Sweat band
• Do rag
• Bandana
• Beanie
• Skull cap
• Legionnaire
• Sweat band on your wrist

My favorite ways of using my Buff are as a double layer neck scarf, beanie, face mask when conditions get dusty, and as a full face balaclava when it gets cold.

Care Instructions

You can hand wash it with detergent or throw it in with your laundry at any temperature. It won’t stretch or rip. It’s very low maintenance so I absolutely love carrying it with me on any extended trip.

If you tend to leave your dirty laundry in baskets, you may find that your Buff, which may be laced with dead skin, attracts insects like moths to feast on it. This is especially true for the merino wool version of the Buff. I have holes in mine. What I do now, is I put my buff in a small plastic resealable plastic sandwich bag before I throw it in the laundry. This way bugs can’t get to it. I actually do the same for any merino wool shirts I may have.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking, “What’s the big deal?,” think of it as a way to consolidate.  You can consolidate a few things and not have to bring a separate scarf, headband, beanie, or bandana. Instead, this one piece of gear will take the place of all these things. Less things to carry, less weight. Happy bike tourists.

I have been so happy with this product that I’ve recommended it to everyone who asks about it. I have 2 Buffs. I used that one for winter riding for when I used to ride a motorcycle, and then a separate one for all around usage.

Pick one up for yourself at REI or at Amazon. You won’t regret it! If you do get one, send me photos of your adventures in your new Buff.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.