Buff

wrapped in nyc

One of my favorite and coolest textiles I have comes from the Philippines. It's a beautifully colored cloth that saved my neck (literally) from the incredible sun over the few days I spent there. Sunblock was no answer - I sweat it out as quickly as I put it on. Plus, it just made everything super oily and nasty. Not fun.

The wrap allowed me to protect my scalp, neck, and face from getting any more sun burnt than they already were. My friends Rye, Reds and Carlo showed me how to tie it multiple ways so I could adjust it however I wanted. I also wear it all the time when I go training as a simple belt that just looks cool and makes me feel b.a. 

training in hammond with an inspirational belt

Though that item is one of my personal favorites and I will continue to use it, I recently saw a 'buff' in action and I had to get one. I just ordered the Mandala from - where else - REI. I watched a few videos about how one can use it (check them: Buff Headwear and High UV Buff Demo) and I immediately noticed how much easier this would be to manage than my Filipino beauty. 

I fell in love as soon as I opened it - the mandala looks so sick and I take this thing everywhere I go. It's incredibly useful and effective as such. I will not be travelling without it.

I LOOK like I'm from Hammond

I've used it many times for training and it absorbs the sweat with no problem, and it retains it, too. I'm used to always wiping my brow and face with my arm or shirt to continue my training, but the buff takes that away. Such a convenience. I almost regret using it during training, because now I can never go back to not having one!

I recently discovered another use for it on my way to Detroit. It was 5 in the morning, the sun was rising, and I was trying to get some sleep in my friends car. Luckily, I remembered the buff, pulled it out, slipped it over my eyes and that's all I needed.

training in West Lafayette, IN

The buff is versatile, useful, and easy to wash. I will not be leaving the home (or cave or tent or whatever!) without it. Get one! NOW!