The Buff

I must say, few pieces of gear baffle me more than the “Buff”.  As you can see from my two-week survey on the right (now wrapping up), it’s a popular item.  I was actually shocked by the results because I had no idea it had such a positive following.  Consequently, I was looking for some online stock photos for this blog entry and found it funny that when typing the word “buff” I got a picture of Carrot Top.  It gave me a chuckle so I decided to post it.  For some of you, ENJOY, for others, I apologize profusely.

I own a standard Merino Wool Buff and the Polar version.  When I do my best impersonation of someone who has a clue how to use it, I end up with something that never seems ideal.  It seems to do many things well, but none great.  Oddly enough, I still don’t understand why the warmer versions aren’t just one solid piece of fabric because neither end seems sufficiently long to entirely configure to whatever arrangement it supposed to be able to achieve and I have gaps to matter how I wear it, although not entirely too problematic.

The appeal of the Buff is clear – options.  Well, I guess to some the goofy colors are appealing too (the folks that run Buff must have gone to the same art class as Dirty Girl gaiters).  The $20-30 price tag for just a tube of fabric seems like a sham to me, but I’ve willingly paid twice for the product because my sewing skills are about as good as my underwater breathing skills.

For those unfamiliar with the Buff product, you can watch a video on it HERE or just search for it.  I decided this video was worthy of posting because the main spokesman didn’t sound anything like I figured he would and I got my second chuckle related to this topic.

So what’s the point of this blog entry?  Well, I’m actually interested in YOUR opinion and I’m hoping to encourage you to give me your insight in the comments section below. 

• What do you like about the Buff and why?
• When do you find it to be the most useful?
• What is your preferred Buff and in what climates?
• What “configuration” do you find it to be the most useful or practical?
• Do you use it for anything other than wearing on your head or neck (i.e. pot grabber, etc.)?
• What fabric do you find to be the most useful?
• Is keeping it dry an option?

Feel free to add anything else worthwhile as it might benefit others in addition to me.

Thanks.