Disclaimer: I received a UV Reflective Half 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!

If you’ve seen my photos on Instagram, you’ll notice that I frequently wear bandanas or headbands whenever I go for a run. I’ve used other brands and when I finally got my hands on some BUFF® headwear, I loved it. I was impressed with the quality of the product. The fabric seems more durable and holds its shape better, no matter what you do to it. I also love the great designs that are available and how easy it is to find in store or online. I had the opportunity to test a specific product, their UV Reflective Half BUFF® and it was love at first run.

What is BUFF® Headwear?

BUFF® headwear is a multi-purpose accessory for running and many other sports. It protects your face and head from the cold as well as wick sweat during hot days. It can be used as a hat, headband, balaclava, neck protector, and lots of other things as you will see in the video below.

Differences Between the UV Reflective Half BUFF® and the Original BUFF®

Basically the differences are the size, reflective markings and the UV protection. The UV Reflective Half BUFF® is half as long as the Original BUFF®. Due to the size difference, you are basically confined to using it as a headband, hairband or wristband. (If you want more options, I’d go with the Original BUFF®.) The UV Reflective Half BUFF® also has 95% UV protection and reflective markings but the other does not (although there are UV or Reflective versions of the original line too, among others). The design selection for the Original BUFF®s is more varied though… the UV Reflective Half BUFF® is only available in a few solid colours. I would love to get my hands on the green or black one.

How I Wore It

It’s been so cold in Vancouver lately that my favourite ways to wear it were as a headband that covered my ears…

Or as a headband while lounging around at home…

And on a night when it was raining and I forgot my umbrella, I used it to cover my head. It was also bright enough for cars to see me while I’m crossing the street. The reflective details also helped, I’m sure.

As a hat liner since my favourite trucker hat (like most trucker hats) are mostly made of mesh…

The Verdict

Again, it’s no surprise that I’m a fan of BUFF® headwear. I love this product. For what I mainly use it for, it’s perfect. The UV Reflective Half BUFF® is $14.99 USD, $5 cheaper than the Original BUFF®. If you will primarily use it as a headband or bandana, I would get this. I hope one day they will add additional designs with UV and reflective details but if print is important to you, they do sell the UV Half BUFF® in a bunch of designs. I also love that it can withstand multiple workouts without stinking.

Buy the UV Reflective Half BUFF® here