For almost as long as we have loved bikes we have loved Buff – the perfect, seamless multi-use headwear (the name comes from ‘bufanda’, Spanish for scarf) that has been with us on virtually very ride we can recall. Juan Rojas, a keen off-road trials motorcyclist from Spain, who had worked for more than a quarter-century in the textile industry, realised a need for a simple multifunctional garment that could be worn on or around the head in a range of conditions; eventually finding a high performance microfibre that was breathable, moisture wicking and wind resistant he created a proprietary ‘tubular loom’ knitting process and the Buff was born. New for 2013 is the Helmet Liner Pro Buff – Cyclo, naturally, wanted to know more…
Designed to be worn under a helmet (which also makes it great for potholers, climbers and skaters) the Helmet Liner Pro Buff is shorter than the traditional version at 27.5cm – compared to the 52cm original – and is made from a knitted polyester fabric with a special construction similar to beehive cells for outstanding breathability, wicking and drying.
On the ride we found a comfortably close fit beneath the helmet (an Abus Airflow, which we adjusted slightly with the ratchet dial) and despite the fact that, unlike the tubular-knit traditional Buffs, the Helmet Liner Pro does have a seam, nothing rubbed or irritated. Wicking was excellent and the addition of a topical silver ion treatment to prevent odour that can result from bacterial build up was a welcome addition.
Will the Helmet Liner Pro Buff replacing our extensive collection of other Buffs? Almost certainly not – the traditional Buffs have too many multi-purpose uses to jettison and we love the winter warmth of the Polar Buff and additional safety served up by the Reflective Buff – but the Liner Pro is an excellent and welcome addition that we can see accompanying us on rides for years to come.
The Helmet Liner Pro Buff retails at £15 and is available in a range of six colours/patterns. Further details and online purchase at buffwear.co.uk
