Buff hats illustrate commitment to environment

By Henry Howard

I’ve been a fan of Buff for years, often receiving their hats from other brands and using on my running adventures.

Buff’s caps and other gear are comfortable, durable and fashionable. But what I appreciate most about the company is how Buff hats illustrate commitment to the environment. They are a certified B Corp company, a global group of companies committed to using the power of business as a force for good.

“Becoming B Corp Certified means we are committed to working collectively to change economic systems and meet the highest social and environmental performance standards,” Buff wrote on its website. “The B Corp model provides best-in-class standards and processes to help ensure we are constantly fulfilling our mission and elevating our work. Our team is more excited than ever to push further, build better, design cleaner, and continue working towards being our best for the planet and the people who share it.”

Buff touts its Do More Now initiative, its commitment to growing while protecting the environment, producing responsibly, and pursuing the well-being of employees and the communities.

I recently had the opportunity to try out several Buff hats and beanies. Buff provided them to me for testing and in exchange for this review.

It did not take me long to move a couple of the caps to the front of my rotation for running caps. Here’s why:

• It’s summer and the sun protection and ventilation are both incredibly useful. The fabric is designed to wick moisture out and allow air flow.

• Both Speed Caps fit really well, very comfortable and not tight like other brands. I favor the Running Speed Cap a bit more, based on its fit and comfort. But I really like the Pack Speed Cap’s innovative drawstring, which makes it easy to adjust for your head size.

• Buff uses materials made from recycled materials to reduce their carbon footprint. Also notable: The 5 Panel Go Cap was made in partnership with Protect Our Winters Canada.

Here’s more details about the items I tested, according to the company:

Buff Black Running Speed Cap

• Tech running cap with sun protection and efficient sweat absorption

• Reflective logo to improve visibility in poor light conditions.

• Designed for running and high intensity sports.

• The quick-dry, breathable fabric provides performance while the reflective elements increase visibility.

• The low-profile, comfortable closure that ensures a perfect fit.

• Crown: 100% nylon. Visor: 100% nylon. Inner sweatband: 100% polyester.

Buff Gray Pack Speed Cap

• It’s ultralight, weighing just 30g.

• True to its name, it’s a packable accessory, folding small without losing its shape.

• Created using technical materials for a better performance.

• Made from recycled plastic fibers.

• Adjustable, elasticated fastener ensures the perfect fit for every size.

• Built-in inner band to wick sweat and moisture away while the fabric wicks moisture away rapidly.

• UPF 50 certified sun protection against ultraviolet radiation.

• Crown: 79% recycled polyamide, 21% elastane. Side mesh panels: 94% recycled polyester, 6% elastane. Visor: 100% polyurethane. Inner sweatband: 94% recycled polyester, 6% elastane. Stopper: 100% recycled polyester.

Buff Brown Running 5 Panel Go Cap

• Athletic cap that combines performance and style.

• Designed for everyday use and sports.

• Adjustable, snapback closure for a perfect fit that stays put.

• This fabric and inner band are designed to wick moisture out and allow air flow.

• Made with 76% of recycled content.

• UPF 50 certified sun protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation produced by the sun.

• Crown: 66% recycled polyester, 23% polyester and 11% elastane. Visor and under visor, 86% recycled polyester, 14% elastane. Side mesh panels: 94% recycled polyester, 6% elastane. Inner sweatband: 92% recycled polyester, 8% polypropylene.