Merino Wool BUFF®: Product Review

Disclaimer: I received a Merino Wool BUFF® to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

It’s no secret that Buff has become one of my favourite products and most indispensable pieces of running gear. My Buff tags along with me to most of my races, and it’s an essential part of my running routine. You can read my previous review of the UV Buff here. When the opportunity arose to test and review the Merino Wool BUFF®, I leapt at the chance!

Initially, we weren’t certain whether or not Buff could/would deliver to Canada – but I was hopeful since they had done so previously. The outcome was still pending when I got a note from our office reception that a package had arrived. Ta-daaaa! My BUFF® headwear was safe and sound on Canadian soil!

The first thing I want to comment on is the colour. We had quite a good selection to choose from, but I’ve been leaning towards the orange palette since embracing BibRave, so I chose the one I felt best suited: Rooibos Tea Dye. According to the packaging, it’s hand-dyed and – as such – totally unique. No other BUFF® product has the same pattern, which makes me feel pretty special.

Although merino wool is certainly not as rough as other sorts of wool, I was a bit concerned that it might be itchy or irritating. There was nothing to worry about. This is high quality material and gentle on the skin. Hooray for merino wool!

One thing I noticed right away is that the Merino Wool BUFF® is longer than my other standard ‘full BUFF®’ products by about 3 1/2 inches.

Quick visit to the website reveals:

The classic BUFF^® headwear shape, but with a few extra inches of length for cozy protection–in the fabric outdoor enthusiasts love most.

With that in mind, time to try it on!

We’ve had some pretty mild weather in Vancouver this year, so there wasn’t a lot of call to wear my BUFF®. If I’d had it in time for my Snowshoe Race, it would have been the perfect gear to wear!

When the morning of the MEC North Vancouver Trail Race dawned overcast and chilly, and I knew we’d be running in the shady forest, my Merino Wool BUFF® was the natural thing to wear. Pre-race, it kept me warm and cozy as we waited at the start. My only ‘complaint’ (and it’s barely even that) is that the longer BUFF® headgear with additional material makes it a bit bulky when doubled up as a toque. At the same time, though, it’s particularly comfortable.

For the first half of the race, I was glad to have my BUFF® to keep my ears and head toasty (though it did nothing to help me keep my eyes open for the photo).

Soon thereafter, when the trails became hillier and I had to exert myself considerably more…the BUFF® (as well as my jacket) were too warm. I tied the jacket around my waist, and converted the BUFF® from a toque to a neck warmer. This is what I love about BUFF® products – the versatility!

A week later at the West Van Run, the weather was sunny and warm, so I only needed a cap during the race. However, when things cooled down afterwards, I was glad to have it stashed with my gear to keep out the chill as I cheered in other runners. Here’s me and fellow BibRavePro Brie (briehemingway.com) hanging out post-race:

The latest adventure for my Merino Wool BUFF® took us to Pacific Spirit Regional Park, an amazing wilderness with scenic trails. Emily and I did nearly 10k and had an absolute blast. Once again, BUFF® started out on my head, and ended up around my neck once things warmed up. Had to show off my BibRave t-shirt, too!

 

In short, I love BUFF® products. We all know that. About the Merino Wool BUFF® specifically – I think this is a great product, and I wish I’d had more cold weather opportunities to try it out! I’m not a skier and not hugely into winter sports, but I think this BUFF® product would be especially awesome for someone who is. Great for runners/cyclists who live in colder climates – or who spend more time in the back-country trails.

But don’t just take my word for it. You should get a BUFF® product for yourself – they have so many styles and options! Visit the US site at buffusa.com, or the Canadian site at buffcanada.com.

Have you tried the Merino Wool BUFF® or other BUFF® products? What do you think?