Understanding Buffalo Systems Pertex & Pile Clothing
When it comes to outdoor adventures in harsh weather conditions, having the right gear can make all the difference between an enjoyable experience and a miserable one. One of the most innovative and effective combinations in the world of outdoor apparel is the Buffalo System, which combines Pertex and Pile fabric technologies.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the magic of the Buffalo System, shedding light on the unique features and benefits of Pertex and Pile fabrics when used in tandem.
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A proven, two-layer clothing concept designed to manage moisture and retain body heat.
A lightweight, windproof, and highly durable outer layer that shields against severe weather.
A synthetic lining that traps warm air and rapidly wicks sweat away from skin.
Discover how this gear performs during hiking, climbing, and other harsh outdoor activities.
Built in Britain: Manufactured in Sheffield
High-quality outdoor gear manufactured in the UK, built specifically for unpredictable British weather.
What is the Buffalo System?
In harsh weather conditions, retaining body heat and managing moisture are critical. The Buffalo System was developed by British manufacturer Buffalo Systems to provide dependable warmth, breathability, and durability without unnecessary bulk.
The system relies on the continuous interaction between two specific components: Pertex fabric and Pile fabric. Worn correctly (ideally next to the skin), the system prevents the rapid cooling caused by trapped sweat, keeping you warm even if the garment gets wet.
Pertex: The Outer Shell
Pertex is a high-performance fabric that serves as the outer shell of Buffalo garments. This fabric is known for its remarkable combination of lightweight, durability, and weather resistance. Here’s why Pertex is an essential part of the Buffalo System:
- Weather Resistance: Pertex is highly windproof and water-resistant, making it ideal for protecting against the elements. It shields the wearer from biting winds and light rain, ensuring that you stay dry and comfortable in challenging conditions.
- Breathability: While Pertex excels at keeping moisture out, it also allows excess heat and moisture to escape from the inside. This breathability is crucial for regulating your body temperature during strenuous activities, preventing you from overheating.
- Durability: Pertex fabrics are known for their robustness and resistance to abrasion. They can withstand the rigours of outdoor adventures, ensuring that your Buffalo gear lasts for years.
Pile: The Inner Insulation
The second half of the Buffalo System is the Pile fabric, which forms the inner lining of Buffalo garments. Pile fabric is a synthetic material with excellent insulating properties. Here’s why Pile fabric is a game-changer:
- Exceptional Insulation: Pile fabric is incredibly warm, trapping a layer of air against your skin to provide insulation. It keeps you toasty even in frigid temperatures.
- Moisture Management: Pile fabric is excellent at wicking moisture away from your body. It works in tandem with the Pertex shell to keep you dry, ensuring that you don’t get wet from sweat or other moisture sources.
- Comfort and Versatility: Pile fabric is soft and comfortable against the skin, making it perfect for extended wear. It’s also highly versatile and can be used in various Buffalo System designs, from jackets to salopettes.
The Buffalo System in Action
When Pertex and Pile fabrics are combined in a Buffalo garment, the result is a system that excels in providing comfort and performance in a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, skiing, or camping, the Buffalo System has got you covered.
Here are some key benefits of using the Buffalo System:
- Temperature Regulation: The combination of Pertex and Pile allows you to easily regulate your body temperature. When it’s cold, the Pile fabric keeps you warm, and when you heat up, the Pertex shell helps dissipate excess heat.
- Lightweight and Packable: Despite their impressive performance, Buffalo garments are surprisingly lightweight and packable, making them easy to carry on your outdoor adventures.
- Minimal Maintenance: Buffalo clothing is known for its low maintenance requirements. Unlike down jackets that need special care, Buffalo gear can be washed, worn, and used without extensive fuss.
- Durability: Buffalo garments are built to last. They can withstand rough terrain, constant use, and frequent washing without losing their performance qualities.
Built in Britain: Manufactured in Sheffield
In an industry where offshore production is the standard, Buffalo Systems stands out by manufacturing its core product line in Sheffield, UK. Buying British-made Buffalo gear offers distinct advantages:
- Quality Control: With the factory located in South Yorkshire, the production process is tightly monitored. Seams, zips, and fabric cuts meet exact specifications with every garment cut and stitched by skilled crafters.
- Built for British Weather: The gear was conceptualised, tested, and manufactured in the UK, specifically to deal with the damp, windy, and freezing conditions.
Buffalo Systems Frequently Asked Questions
How do you wash Buffalo clothing?
Machine wash your Buffalo gear at a maximum of 30°C. Do not use fabric softeners or conditioners, as these will coat the fibres and destroy the pile’s ability to wick moisture.
- Do not tumble dry
- Do not dry clean
- Do not iron the garment.
Simply wash it, ideally using Nikwax Tech Wash if possible, hang it up, and allow it to air dry. The Pertex and Pile materials dry rapidly.
Do you wear a base layer under a Buffalo shirt?
For maximum efficiency, the Buffalo System is designed to be worn directly next to the skin. The pile lining needs contact with your body to trap heat and actively move sweat away. If you prefer not to wear it next to the skin, use a very thin, close-fitting synthetic base layer. Never wear cotton underneath, as it holds onto moisture and will rapidly drop your core temperature.
Is Buffalo clothing waterproof?
Buffalo garments are highly water-resistant and completely windproof, but they are not strictly ‘waterproof’ in the same way as a taped-seam hard shell. The Pertex outer sheds rain and snow efficiently. If water does penetrate during heavy downpours, the pile lining continues to retain your body heat and actively pumps the water back out. The system is designed to keep you warm and comfortable while wet, rather than creating an impermeable barrier.
Which Buffalo garment is best for specific activities like winter hiking, mountaineering, or camping?
For winter hiking and general mountain use, the Special 6 Shirt is the standard choice, built with heavy insulation for severe conditions.
How should Buffalo garments fit for optimal performance, and what sizing tips can you offer?
Buffalo clothing must fit snugly to work correctly. If the garment is too loose, cold air will circulate inside, and the pile will not sit close enough to your skin to physically pull sweat away. It should feel close to the body without restricting your actual range of movement in the shoulders and arms. When sizing, make sure the side zips are closed and use the internal waist adjusters to pull the fabric tight against your lower back to eliminate any dead air space.
Shop Buffalo Systems at Outdoor Action
The Buffalo System, with its Pertex and Pile fabric combination, is a true marvel in the world of outdoor gear. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual hiker, these fabrics will keep you comfortable and protected in challenging conditions. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient outdoor clothing system that won’t let you down, give Buffalo a try – you won’t be disappointed.
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