When columnist Stephen Regenold set out his list of Greatest Gear of 5 Years, he must have known the potential for indignant outcry was great.
Gladly, the Gear Junkie got it right:
#1 The Original Buff
Nothing else I’ve tested over the past five years has stuck with me as much as the Original Buff, a hard-to-categorize headgear piece that’s essentially a tubular hat made of a thin, stretchy, seamless synthetic fabric that hugs your head to wick sweat or keep the sun and wind at bay.
I use Buffs year-round, as headbands in the summer, hats in the spring and fall, and balaclavas during the wintertime. They are lightweight, multi-functional items that have become literally indispensable for me during outings that range from ultra-endurance races to nightly jogs through my neighborhood. (Original Buff, $18.50; www.buffusa.com)
The lowly bandana is my #1 piece of gear. But I will get Buff.
I also like his #4 pick, the Granite Gear – Virga Ultralight .
Given to me as a gift, this is my go to pack for cycling and short walks.
For multi-day hikes I use the heavier Granite Gear Nimbus Latitude.
(via Adventure Blog)




I completely agree! He did get it right. The Buff is amazing, and much more than just a bandana. (Although I dig them too!) 🙂
Used my new Buff for the first time today, Kraig. Awesome!
Glad you liked it Rick. So how do you like the Granite Gear pack? I nearly ordered one from Steep and Cheap earlier this week.