Kit review- Reversible Neckwarmer Buff

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I have only recently become a fan of the Buff, that multi-purpose bit of kit that has become so universal on the hillside. However having become a fan, I almost never head for the hillside without my trusty all purpose scarf being tucked in the top of my rucksack. So, when the lovely folk at Kitshack (www.kitshack.com) offered me the opportunity to try out the Reversible Polar Neckwarmer made by Buff I jumped at the chance. The timing was even more opportune as I was just about to set off to Nepal on a personal expedition to Annapurna Base Camp and the predicted temperature was due to drop as low as minus ten, ideal conditions for a Neckwarmer!
The first thing to say is that it is a very smart looking bit of kit. The version that I had was a “military” style camouflage design made of Polartec Classic 100. The blurb describes the two layer system as creating “an air cushion that maintains body temperature and combats heat loss” and I can wholeheartedly agree. This is a seriously warm bit of equipment and when used in conjunction with a down jacket and a hat meant I was able to stay warm as the altitude climbed and the temperature dropped. The Buff is extremely comfortable, the lining is soft and I had no problem with condensation build up which is sometimes a problem with bits of kit like this. I wore it as a snood whilst in bed and in the evenings sat in the unheated lodges it proved completely indispensable to keep me warm. It feels beautifully lightweight, it’s reversible and looks as good as it feels.
It’s a shame that I have only received it towards the end of a fairly lacklustre British Winter but I can’t wait for the temperatures to start dropping again next year so I can dig out this valuable and useful bit of kit to wear at home and overseas on the mountain!