Face covering / buff
Overview
A face covering or buff is a lightweight tubular fabric used to protect the face and neck from sun, dust, wind, insects, or cold. It is a common multi-use item in long-distance hiking.
Key points
- Provides sun, wind, and dust protection using minimal weight.
- Can be worn in multiple configurations, including around the neck or over the face.
- Lightweight synthetic fabrics dry quickly and wick moisture.
- Useful in desert, alpine, and cold-weather environments.
- Often used for insect protection when paired with a hat.
- Serves as an emergency bandage, sweatband, or prefilter when needed.
Details
A face covering or buff is a seamless fabric tube worn in various ways to provide environmental protection and comfort. In exposed regions such as deserts or high alpine terrain, it shields the face and neck from sunburn and wind. In dusty or smoky areas, it reduces inhalation of airborne particles. At night or in cold weather, it offers light thermal insulation.
These coverings are usually made of thin synthetic materials that dry quickly after sweating or washing. They can be configured as balaclavas, headbands, neck gaiters, or simple face masks. When paired with a hat or insect repellent, they help reduce exposure to mosquitoes and biting flies.
Because of their versatility, buffs are popular among hikers looking for low-weight solutions to multiple needs. They also function as improvised bandages, prefilters for removing debris from water before filtration, or padding under straps. Their durability and adaptability make them a core accessory in many kits.
Related topics
- cold-weather-layering-system
- insect-protection-strategies
- multi-use-gear-overview
- sun-protection-overview
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