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10 Best Buff Headwear Reviews – 2021 Buying Guide
If you are training in cold weather, there are designs that are specially made to keep your neck and lower face warm. In the summer, these same designs can protect your lungs when training in dusty conditions. Buff headwear also offers UV protection and moisture-wicking capability.
You'll get a ton of use out of any of our picks for the best buff headwear options.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
All Buff products feel good, but some more than others.
We all want to be comfortable no matter what we're doing so this is always a factor we look closely at when choosing products for our buying guides and when making our lists. Luckily, Buff headwear is all soft, flexible, breathable, and versatile which should help make your buying decision an easy one.
Some of their products, however, are more comfortable than others. For example the Margo Neckwarmer, is partly made of wool. While most users found it to still be soft and comfortable, some people thought it was a bit itchy, and obviously, those of you with wool allergies will need to avoid it.
Other than that, most of the products on our list are similar in terms of how they feel when you wear them, although there was some variance, which is reflected in this factor score.
Materials
What something is made of, often dictates all the other factors, but there's more to it than that.
Most Buff Headwear is made of their signature fabric which is a 100% microfiber polyester of their own proprietary blend. A couple of their products do have a large percentage of wool in the blend so we made sure to look out for slight differences that generally occur based on different intended uses.
Beyond that, however, it's also important that you look at the design, quality, and placement of the seams and hems. That's because since it will be worn directly touching your skin, you want to make sure that the seams lay flat as much as possible and are small and high-quality. You don't want a large, poorly sewn seam irritating your neck or part of your face.
After considering over 1400 reviews, however, we found that complaints about the fabric, construction, and seams were few and so we feel confident recommending Buff headwear.
Durability
Since Buff products are so versatile, it's important that they can withstand time and wear.
One of the reasons that Buff headwear products have quickly become so popular is because of their versatility. You can use them as a neckwarmer, face protector, running hat, bandana, ponytail scrunchie, and so much more.
Since you never know what you'll be up to or where you'll be, you need to know the product is durable. During our research, we found that for the most part people were really happy with how well their Buff headwear held up over time through a variety of different uses.
Breathability
One of the most common uses is as a facemask, which is just one reason it needs to be breathable.
Buff products are known for being comfortable, stylish, versatile, and of course breathable. This is super important for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, one of the most popular uses of a Buff is as a facemask. Since in this case it will be covering your mouth, it's obviously vital that it allows you to breathe comfortably while you're wearing it.
Another popular use is as a headband to soak up sweat and prevent it from running into your eyes.
10 Best Buff Headwear
1. High UV Protection
There are 12 plus ways to wear this incredibly versatile Buff headwear. A few of the most common methods are a neckerchief, headband, mask, and hairband. It’s machine washable and designed of top-quality materials, so you can rest assured knowing that you’re purchasing a very durable product. Weighing only 1.3 ounces, you won’t feel hindered by it in any way.
Read moreThe seamless design ensures that you receive the most comfortable fit possible. This Buff headwear provides excellent protection from harmful UV rays, which is great for runners who are typically out in the sun.
Made of 100% microfiber polyester, the soft and breathable Buff is one of the most popular among runners. Even in very bright conditions or after multiple washes, the material is designed not to fade or lose its elasticity. Treated with polygene, your Buff will remain odor-free and will resist the build-up of bacteria. This product is certified to meet Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which means you’re getting top-of-the-line quality.
With CoolMax ProFiber technology, it's designed to stay cool even in the hottest of conditions. Its material wicks away moisture faster than any other fabric.
This item is relatively affordable. However, print or pattern you choose plays a role in the pricing, as more intricate patterns are more expensive.
2. National Geographic Multifunctional
What we love most about this design is that it boasts an incredibly unique style that you won’t find anywhere else. This option offers a wide variety of colors that will go with just about anything that you own, and it comes in at a super affordable price point that makes it worth checking out.
Read moreOne of the things that we loved most about this option is that it is incredibly lightweight and versatile. Users can wear it around their neck to hold in the heat on cooler days or wear it as a headband to protect their hair and keep sweat out of their eyes. The polyester fabric is incredibly soft against the skin and washes up well.
Runners also love that this design is completely seam-free. If you wear it on your head, there are no points on this option that will dig into your head, making it something so comfortable that you can wear it all day long without irritation. The polyester fabric contains Polygiene which works to wick away odors and moistures through the course of the day.
If you are in the market for something that is versatile and comfortable, this design is an excellent choice. Users love that unique color blocking pattern that is only available through this brand. Plus, it comes in at a super affordable price point that won’t break the bank.
3. Margo Neckwarmer
A high performing neck-warmer with wind resistive protection, the outer is knitted and stylish while the inner gives great warmth through the Prima-Loft polar fleece. Nice and warm and very quick to dry out if you're caught in a downpour, this headband is very good for cold windy days.
Read moreYou're going to get real warmth, protection, and comfort thanks to the Polar Prima-Loft fleece lining, which sits snugly and warmly against the skin. In terms of fit, this neck warmer will work for most adults.
This option was designed to handle the tougher weather, which makes it a great choice for runners who don’t mind a little rain or cold.
This good quality neck warmer reflects value for money spent and is fairly affordable for most people who don’t mind spending a little more for quality.
4. UV Half Buff
Even though the UV Half Buff is only half the size of the regular UV Buff, it’s extremely versatile and can be used in nine different ways. It’s flexible, lightweight, and maintains its shape and elasticity even after numerous washes. With an extremely wide variety of colors and prints, there’s a Buff to suit everyone’s personal style.
Read moreIts semi-seamless design helps eliminate skin irritation, while its cool, soft feel provides you with superior comfort.
Made of 100% microfiber polyester, this product is incredibly soft and breathable. CoolMax ProFiber technology ensures that you stay cool and dry during your run.
Polygene helps prevent odors and maintain a clean, healthy state due to its anti-microbial properties. A double layer of microfiber is sewn together on the interior for extra durability. This offers great breathability and can block up to 95% of the sun’s harmful rays.
This is one of Buff’s most affordable products. For a relatively inexpensive price, you can have an extremely versatile option that’ll last and last throughout the miles.
5. Coolnet Uv+ Multifunctional
If you need something to protect your head when running under an oppressive summer sun, this design is a great choice. It is made from materials that create a strong UV barrier against your skin and the sun. This design is one of the lightest designs out there on the market, which makes it feel like you aren’t wearing anything at all when training or working out outside in the hot summer months.
Read moreOne of the things that runners love most about this design is that it is incredibly lightweight. Plus, it is composed of 100 percent recycled materials that come in a wide variety of color options as well as unique patterns. It is made from REPREVE microfiber that works to wick away moisture to keep your head cool and dry.
In addition to REPREVE microfibers, it is also reinforced with a few supplemental materials designed to keep your head cool and comfortable. HeiQ cooling technology helps to lift hot air up and away from your head while UV+ fibers filter out harmful UV rays that can not only cause damage to your skin but your hair as well.
If you are in the market for something sleek and stylish to wear on your hot summer runs, this Coolnet UV+ is an excellent choice. It is composed of recycled materials that you can feel good about, as well as advanced features that work to keep your head cool and dry, as well as protected from the harsh summer sun.
6. Thermonet
The Buff Thermonet does not disappoint. It comes in lots of color and design options to choose from. This is a great option that you can wear in lots of ways, so it's like owning 12 different pairs.
Read moreThis one is meant to keep you warm and has the capability to stay well-insulated. It’s made of Primaloft yarn which lets it provide the same type of insulation as down would-- it definitely keeps you warm.
The Thermonet is made with Primaloft yarn. The material used in this Bluff headwear will not only keep you warm, but it will last for a long time as well. It needs to be hand-washed however, so keep that in mind. The moisture-wicking fabric ensures you stay cool and dry and it is also really breathable and quick drying.
The Buff Thermonet is pretty pricey--but it is well worth the investment. It can be worn 12 different ways and comes in several colors and design options to choose from.
7. UV Insect Shield
This option is ideal for people who run during the sunny period and at night as well. It repels insects by its repellent formula which lasts for quite a long period of time. It is very adaptable and also wicks out excess moisture, leaving you dry and cool all the time.
Read moreThis is designed to provide the perfect fit and you can customize the style as well. It helps make the sunny days very manageable as it keeps all insects at a distance.
The headband is made of 100% polyester. Having the Cool Max pro material not only taps out excess moisture, but it also provides protection against UV harmful rays while repelling the insects too. Like most Buff headwear, it is designed to wick away moisture and grant you the protection you need while outdoors.
It is slightly costly compared to other buffs that can be found at a lower price. However, it is all worth the extra coins since you are guaranteed value.
8. Headband
This unisex option is smaller than other Buff products so it's not as versatile, but if you're looking for a dedicated headband, this is a great choice.
Read moreThe material is soft and the headband is of a size that will fit most users without being either too tight or too loose.
It's made of their proprietary 100% microfiber polyester blend. Users found it to be tough and long lasting, even when a lot was being asked of it.
It's about the same price as other Buff products but it's not as versatile so it may not represent as good of a deal.
9. Lightweight Merino Wool
This is a lightweight, eco-friendly, versatile product that can be used for all-season performance. It can be worn in ten different ways, truly living up to its “multi-functional” title. Buyers should note that tie-dye styles are three inches shorter than other colors and patterns. It won the Backpacker Magazine’s editors’ choice Gold award because of its reliable, durable performance. It only weighs only 1.7 ounces.
Read moreThis option is incredibly soft and wind-resistant. The seamless design ensures top-of-the-line comfort with no irritation or chafing. Designed for low-temperature conditions, it retains its heat even when wet.
Made of 100% Merino wool from humanely raised and non-mulesed sheep. This kind of wool is less “scratchy” than normal wool since its fibers are much finer. It’s naturally moisture-wicking and odor-resistant. It’s designed to dry quickly and it’s extremely breathable.
This Buff is affordable and it is priced averagely compared to the majority of Buff’s other products.
10. Unisex New Polar
If you need something that is able to transition from summer to winter while still offering excellent UV protection, this design is a great choice. It is made from lightweight materials that protect your head from sun and wind with a polar band along the base that works to keep your head warm in cooler weather. It is slightly more expensive than some of the other options, but we feel that it is worth every penny.
Read moreThe very first thing that we noticed about this lightweight design is that it boasts a polar band along the base that helps to hold in heat. The interior lining is composed of Primaloft fleece that feels incredibly soft and comfortable against your skin and works to wick away sweat where it quickly dries on the surface.
This design is made from REPREVE microfibers that are 100 percent recycled. It also provides users with a UV filter that protects their skin and head from the harsh rays of the sun in summer as well as winter. While it may be a little thicker than easy summer designs, this is a great choice for those that need something that works in all seasons.
If you are in the market for something that works in all weather conditions while protecting your skin from the sun, this design is an excellent choice. It is made from quality materials that are incredibly soft, and transition easily from summer to winter.