Neck gaiters for hiking

The multifunctional tube, a Catalan invention

The tubular scarf was popularised by Buff, a brand from Igualada in Catalonia: its founder, Joan Rojas, was looking for a more comfortable collar than the military-style ones he wore while riding his motorcycle in the early 1990s, and the brand was registered in 1992. This simple cylinder of stretchy fabric can be worn as a neck gaiter, headband, hat, balaclava or headband, depending on the weather and effort. Lightweight, it can be packed into a pocket and is useful all year round, protecting against the wind in winter and the sun and dust in summer. When wet with stream water, it even cools the neck by evaporation during climbs in full sun.

Fleece for the cold, fine knit for effort

The fleece neck gaiter, like the Cairn Malawi or Starling Pine, offers more warmth for winter outings, breaks and camping. The neck is an area where large blood vessels run close to the skin: covering it significantly reduces the feeling of cold and closes off the collar of the jacket, where warmth escapes with every movement. For climbs, where you sweat, a thinner and breathable model like the Salewa Icono prevents overheating and dries quickly. Many hikers carry both: the fine knit while exerting themselves, and the fleece at the summit or at the shelter.

For children, safer than a scarf

For children, the neck gaiter, like the Buff Pampani or the Kilpi Darlin, is safer than a safety scarf: without dangling ends, it won’t get caught on a play structure, a branch, or a ski lift, nor will it tighten around the neck. It stays in place when the child runs and can be pulled up easily over the nose and cheeks when the wind picks up. The children's models, which are shorter and narrower, cover the neck up to the chin without slipping or compressing. A neck gaiter can be washed at thirty degrees, without fabric softener, and the fleece dries in a few hours on the back of a chair.

Other accessories

The neck gaiter can be complemented by hats, headbands, balaclavas, caps, bucket hats and caps, water bottles, GPS watches, navigation accessories, available on the accessories page.

Good deals and new arrivals

The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, promotions feature discounted items, and the clearance includes end-of-line products. Items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent within 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

How to prevent fogging on glasses with a neck gaiter?

Pull the tube up under the bridge of the nose rather than over it, so that the exhaled air escapes downwards. A fine and breathable model in front of the mouth also limits the moisture that condenses on the lenses in cold weather.

Merino, polyester or fleece: which material to choose?

Lightweight polyester dries quickly and provides sun protection in summer. Merino wool regulates temperature and limits odours for several days, while fleece keeps you warm in extreme cold.

What neck gaiter size to choose for an adult?

Adult tubes are often one size fits all thanks to their stretchy knit, which adapts to most head sizes. A fleece neck gaiter with a drawstring can also be adjusted above the chin to block the wind.

Does a neck gaiter protect against the sun at altitude?

Yes, a microfiber tube covers the nape and neck, which are very exposed in the mountains where ultraviolet rays are stronger. Some materials have a UPF rating, and positioned over the nose, the tube also protects the lower part of the face.

Does a fleece neck gaiter pill?

Fleece can pill in areas of friction, against the collar of a jacket or the straps of the pack. Washing inside out, without fabric softener or a tumble dryer, limits this phenomenon, and a lint remover refreshes its appearance.