Runner’s World Magazine Germany and the ISPO trade show bestowed their second-annual Runner’s World-ISPO Award in the running accessory category to Original Buff, earlier this month at the ISPO show in Munich, Germany.

The Runner’s World-ISPO Award was designed to recognize innovative running-oriented products during the ISPO show. It recognizes winners in four arenas: running shoes, running clothes, running accessories, and walking/nordic walking. The jury that selects winners was chosen by the editorial team at Runner’s World Germany, a 60,000-circulation magazine that is one of nine affiliates of Runner’s World Magazine published around the world. The jury included outdoor sports retailers, materials experts and athletes.

“There are often small things that make a big difference, including for running,” the jury said in a statement in announcing the award to Buff. “(Buff) is used by so many runners … that you see it in all kinds of different varieties throughout the whole year. An almost outrageously simple construction proves to be an excellent solution for running … very practical for runners, and proves to be a valuable companion in everyday running.”

The jury used the following criteria in choosing its winners: outstanding innovation; outstanding value of product in daily use; product is part of a successful product-line; good value for money; attractive design; long durability, good quality.

“Because Buff serves so many different purposes yet packs up smaller than an energy bar, it’s a natural for runners, cyclists and other outdoor athletes who need versatility without adding extra weight or bulk. We’re proud that organizations as respected as Runner’s World and the ISPO show recognized the value Buff has for running,” said Shirley Choi Brunetti, who oversees distribution of Buff in the U.S.

Original Buff® Headwear, a seamless tubular garment made from a high-performance microfiber fabric, provides the same performance benefits that athletes demand from the rest of their high-tech clothing, as well as versatility for rapidly changing outdoor conditions. The beauty of Buff® is simplicity-one garment serves many functions. Designed to offer performance and protection from the elements during a wide range of outdoor activities and sports, Buff® Headwear can be worn as a hat, headband, neck gaiter, helmet liner, balaclava, sun, dust or wind screen, bandana, scarf, pirate-style cap or hairband, among other uses.

Other 2005 Runner’s World-ISPO Award winners included Asics in the shoe category, Löffler in the clothing category and Bogner in the walking/nordic walking category.