Buff headwear will co-sponsor the Life-Link/Dynafit Randonnee Rally ski-race series during the upcoming winter, Life-Link and Buff announced this week.

“Because Buff headwear is extremely versatile in how it can be worn to address changing weather, the product works well for racers in ski-mountaineering events such as the Randonnee Rally and for backcountry skiing in general – pursuits where participants are constantly on the move and constantly encountering different outdoor conditions,” said Shirley Choi Brunetti, who oversees sales and distribution of Buff® products in the U.S.

“We wanted to support an event that’s a good match for Buff headwear’s versatility, and the Life-Link/Dynafit Randonnee Rally couldn’t be a better fit,” Choi Brunetti said. “Not only is it a good match, but backcountry skiing is a growing area in winter outdoor sports, and Life-Link has done a great job helping build excitement for the sport through the Rally. We’re excited to be a part of that.”

Participants at all five events in the Rally series will receive an original Buff in their race packets. Races will take place in Jackson Hole, Wyo., Crested Butte, Colo., Alpine Meadows, Calif., Alpental, Wash., and Whistler, British Columbia, between January and March 2004. For specific race dates, visit www.life-link.com.

“We are very pleased to have Buff Headwear join as a sponsor for the 2004 Life-Link/Dynafit Randonnee Rally race series,” said John Scott, executive vice president of Life Link. “Buff, like our other sponsors, recognizes that supporting the race series is a great way to give back to their customers in the backcountry ski community. Backcountry travel continues to be a growing market segment for manufacturers of quality products like Buff headwear.”

During the races, participants use randonnee or telemark ski gear to climb and descend a course through the mountains. The courses involve multiple ascents and descents, and there are racing and recreational divisions.

Caviro S.L., the Spanish company that manufactures Buff®-branded products, opened a U.S. sales office in early 2003 and is growing both brand recognition and sales throughout the country. Popular in Europe for more than a decade, Buff® headwear is often used by European ski-mountaineering competitors, and it also enjoys a strong following among adventure racers, hikers and cyclists.