Buff: Part of the Trail Runner's Uniform

I had an “aha” (or something like it) moment during my long run on Sunday. I had a few Trail Runner Nation podcasts to catch up on so I mindlessly hit play on the podcasts.

Scott started talking about how bandanas are part of a trail runner’s uniform. Awesome. I knew this all along. Often I will have a new runner or a road runner comment on my bandanas or ask why I wear them. I always reply, “It’s a trail running thing.” Now I have scientific proof! 


You know I am not the most experienced trail runner but I totally get the bandanas or buffs. I may have a bandana problem (See picture below). Bandanas are not just for keeping the hair out of your face or for looking cool (although the cool factor is always a bonus). I can totally pick out a trail runner at a race by what he/she has on her head/neck/wrist. Cool, right?




Bandanas are so versatile. There’s a zillion uses for bandanas: sun mask, dust mask, carry ice, bandage, keeping sweat out of eyes, as a cloth, neck warmer, wrap wrists or other body parts etc.

Fortunately bandanas are not as pricey as sneakers. You can get a good one for less than $20. Otherwise I would be in big trouble. I have one in just about every shade. But I prefer bright and funky ones.









Do you wear bandanas/buffs on your runs? Where? Why?

1 Comment

  1. Crystal, I'm a runner in California where it often gets very hot during my run. I've used Ergodyne cooling bandanas for years. I like to start with the bandana around my head, then drop it around my neck later during the run. Works great. Here are a couple reviews for the bandana, for your readers:
    http://runwritedig.com/2013/04/07/gear-review-chill-its-evaporative-cooling-bandana/
    http://runwritedig.com/2012/02/06/gear-review-ergodyne-chill-its-cooling-bandana/

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