Buffalo Special 6 Review | Hiking gear

Reviewing the amazing Buffalo special 6 shirt

[@tonypaddler]

I've had mine for 32 years and I agree with your review. Most '3 season' products mean 'not winter' but this is, for me, NOT summer ... 😁👍 I've got the Buffalo mitts and detachable hood too, great kit! Cheers 👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

That’s such a great point I with I’d thought of that (the 3 seasons 😁). Thank you so much for watching 👍

[@chrisbentleywalkingandrambling]

Beautiful location and a great review Phil. Thanks for sharing.

[@The_Brit_Girls]

Great review, Phil! 👍 The location you chose to demonstrate the effectiveness of the jacket was stunning. It must be much more comfortable to go for thin layers that block out the wind and chill. Have a great week ahead ❤

[@goexploringwithcolor-shawn]

Such beautiful place for this review, it’s great sharing 👍👍

[@RedMapleCanada]

Sounds like a fantastic jacket, especially for us outdoorsy type! I like how it's a bit longer and covering the back nicely, I can't stand wind blowing up my back. Great review! The area where you are, stunning! 😍

[@psychoal1967]

I have a Buffalo Big Face shirt that I bought 30 years ago. Still going strong but too warm for walking up hills. I carry it late autumn and through winter and then put it on when I get to the first summit or gearing up for a winter climb. I absolutely agree, they are great!

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Not seen them but will check it out. Others have told me they’ve had buffalo for many years and still going strong. Fantastic piece of kit 👍

[@TheHikingHermit]

Great review Phil. The jacket looks cool. Can also wear that down the pub no problem. I'm all for layering up and always carry loads of spares. Nice hermit friendly place for a review too 👍

[@GENerationXplorers]

“In summer, it’s too warm for that!” 😂 wow some great weathers up there. Interesting about the waterproofing! Great review Phil 👍

[@TravelingTramps]

Great review in such an idyllic setting! Looks like a wonderful jacket.

[@LEGOLIZED]

What a great video....what a nice jacket......super great video..really enjoyed it....enjoy your new purchases...have a great week

[@martinoutdoors6941]

I’ve got two, I’ve had them a long time now great bits of kit, great when your active but have found that they’ve not always kept me warm when I’ve been sat around.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

I think that’s the only downside of them as I’ve noticed that myself 👍

[@philwhitelaw3111]

I have had the forerunner to one of these made by Remploy for about 25 years now. Worn it in cold conditions from Norway to down the Falklands and can vouch for everything said in this video. It is an amazing piece of kit and is my go to item when the temp drops.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Wow it proves its durability. I love it as it’s a no frills great piece of kit 👍

[@inregionecaecorum]

Great stuff I have had one for years but I have gone back over to wool in my latter days. Vintage swedish M39 with a vast array of pockets, the pockets on the back are really neat, I can carry a flask of tea in one and a pack of sandwiches in the other. I have been wearing it over a T shirt and perfectly warm enough for hiking.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

I’ve never heard of the M39 but it sounds great. I like the old vintage clothing so will take a look on line 👍

[@yasminshikingmission]

Great review Phil it’s looks jacket to have 😊 definitely need a good one this time of the year. Lovely location too for your review 😁😁

[@Thorkenn]

Hello Phil 👋. That’s amazing review and love ❤️ it. Perfect views as well. Have a great day.

[@CluelessYoutuber]

Great review Phil and timely for the seasons changing 😁 that is an amazing location too.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks 👍

[@emmaolsen1828]

Great jacket. Looks like a handy piece of kit 👍

[@IamaDutch-Kiwi]

I'm all for less is more Phil. I wear a thin ice breaker top and a almost 'sealing out all wind' coat. I haven't heard of the brand and I will make a note when I need to replace what I have. Perfect spot for a review for this jacket. 👌❄🇳🇱🙋‍♀🇳🇿

[@NBNatureTrailvan]

Nice one mate. Now that’s a beautiful location and beautiful day for a review. Looks a great jacket. I’ve never had a decent jacket - many years many jackets but nothing ever perfect Recently bought a Brasher coat which is absolutely brilliant. But that one looks good - will go on the list for next time. Haven’t got anything like that

[@andyhulme6666]

Best jackets ever.

[@lifesahobby]

Love the jacket Phil ... The strap part is excellent

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thank you so much 🙏🏼

[@cupcakescorner7684]

Such a great sceneries and landscapes. Wonderful day. Jacket very much recommended.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

It really is very good 👍

[@gudgengrebe]

That sounds fantastic! I will definitely put that top of my gear list. Thank you. This beats all those expensive well known brand names which are nowhere near good enough except for shopping trips in your 4x4. I have subscribed now and I want to see if you have the same brand hiking trousers or something similar. Yes it’s not cheap, but you’re going lighter because you don’t need so many layers. I’m very excited about this. I’m keen to see what other gear you’re using. This made my day 👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

You’re very kind. Thanks 🙏

[@user-rr8fi3ws4y]

I use my special 6 with my helikon tex Pilgrim anorak over. Like wearing a fortress. The pilgrim has fire resistance as well. Both jackets have excellent venting options and excellent breathability. I use the pilgrim over a tshirt in the summer so essentially the pilgrim is the outer to my system all year round. If rain is belting down I will wear a poncho over everything any time of year. I use a wax canvas outhaus poncho if high winds and rain as it has more weight to it, also doubles as my bivi. My other poncho is a snugpack enhanced patrol, very light and very versatile as well.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

That sounds a fantastic setup! I was looking at possibly getting the Helikon Tex SAS smock. Don’t know if you’ve seen it, but it looks good for warmer weather 👍 I’ve a few Snugpak things and was thinking about review a sleeping bag of theirs (which I love). Thanks for watching and commenting 🙏

[@carlbernsen1290]

They are brilliant, and dry out so fast if you get soaked, so ideal for being on a boat. !5 mins to dry if you kepp moving. The outer nylon layer is the Pertex, the inside fur is fibrepile. Buffalo also do an unlined version, so just the outer nylon. Plain Fibrepile smocks and jackets are also available by several makers including Helly Hansen and I find that having the fibrepile as a separate layer with a windproof nylon jacket over the top is even more versatile, especially as I warm up and need to ventilate better. I can use both together for full protection, take off the outer nylon shell for cooling down, and use just the outer shell over a thin base layer if I still get too warm.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks for you comment. I totally get the layering process. I use the buffalo more so when the conditions are not so good and I know I can completely trust it. If the weather is changeable then I do use other jackets for that - actually I just uploaded a review of my other jacket I use on hikes etc 👍

[@papiergestaltung]

8:13 enjoyed this video Phill 👍👍👍👍👍 Great sharing 👍👍

[@penman8985]

Brilliant review Phil. These are amazing bits of kit. ATB - Simon 👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thank you. They really are great 👍

[@RolloZx]

bought one 2 months ago - had north face, rab, montane, fjallraven - this beats the lot, best jacket ive ever had. Went skiing in it a couple of weeks ago in a t-shirt and thin thermal long sleeve - warm as can be but breathable and really moveable - cracking pockets too. dries out on you when it gets wet, but you stay warm Only watchout is the velcro is like velcro on steroids - keep it away from your hair!!

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Glad you like the jacket. I’ve had it for years and it’s been amazing. I was up a mountain Friday with about -7 and strong winds, yet I was toasty in the jacket and even had to keep undoing the vents to regulate the temperature 👍

[@DavidLudlowPhotography]

Great review Phil. I think I better start saving for one. Great scenery hope you got some good photos. Regards David 👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks Dave. It’s worth saving for 😁 I was actually up there doing a landscape photography video using the iPhone (it was just too cold to use my canon). Got some lovely photos and Timelapse. Thanks 👍

[@DavidLudlowPhotography]

@@PhilipOlsen11 That sounds good, I look forward to seeing those. 👍

[@trooperwolfie]

Buffalo smocks are great, I had one when I was in the army. Btw, just a little nit pick, the pertex is the outer layer, the pile lining isn't made by pertex 😉👍🏻

[@PhilipOlsen11]

That’s great. Never knew 🙈 just know I love the jacket 😊 I bought it in a store that sold army gear. The chap was X forces and couldn’t recommend it more 👍

[@trooperwolfie]

@@PhilipOlsen11 they are certainly great, I had mine for years, I've currently got the Montane extreme smock (which is basically a copy) but I prefer the buffalo, I'll have to get another at some point. I only paid about £65 when I bought mine in 2000....they have definitely gone up in price lol.

[@nafex3740]

Great walking tour 🎉

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@FXWalesAnnaAlf]

Hi Phil you are in a fantastic location, so beautiful in the snow and that jacket does look and sound great and I like that you only need one thin layer underneath. Very good review and £160 is not bad for a good jacket 👍~ Anna

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks Anna. I was up there doing a video. I like the jacket so much I decided to stop on that isolated rock and do the review. Thanks for watching 🙏🏼❤️

[@OSMOneStepMore]

Really nice video! Thanks for this nice share! Nice review. Pretty good jacket.👏 Fantastically!! 😀L15

[@tonykillick1847]

"Oooose coat is that jacket??" 😂

[@PhilipOlsen11]

😂😂😂

[@jacknaturetravel]

Nice Jacket and great review👍👌

[@nbartlett6538]

I used to have the special 6 but honestly it was too warm for almost every season except a couple of weeks in winter!

[@PhilipOlsen11]

It is a warm jacket but it makes a big difference with the sides open for venting. Thanks for watching 🙏🏼

[@dalethorn9046]

Best bit of kit I've ever owned. It's genuinely the greatest thing ive ever bought

[@PhilipOlsen11]

I agree. I really do love mine 👍

[@WainwrightWalksWiaLocalLad]

Hi Phil... I have a Montane jacket which is much the same. Fantastic for winter cycling! A friend of mine is a body for SARDA and uses a Buffalo sleeping bag to lie on the hill waiting for a dog to find him!! Only downside is you've got to wear it all the time...to bulky to carry!! Not fashionable for the crowds.... but deserves to be more popular. TFS cheers Alistair 👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks Alastair. How you keeping? I bought a montane fireball eclipse for the less colder weather. I absolutely love it (may do a review on that) 🙈 The buffalo really is a no frills all round great jacket 👍

[@WainwrightWalksWiaLocalLad]

@@PhilipOlsen11 heads a bit messed up Phil, got to think it'll come good in the end 🤔

[@PhilipOlsen11]

@@WainwrightWalksWiaLocalLad oh I’m so sorry to hear that Alastair, I really am. Hope you get there soon. Keep going mate 👍

[@brianbeatens3518]

For the summer months they have the buffalo wind shirt. They are the nuts just like the big brothers special 6 and mointain shirt.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

That’s great. I just looked at it on line. It would be the perfect crossover from the colder months 👌

[@richardhallyburton]

@@PhilipOlsen11 I find the perfect crossover is a Rab Vapour Rise jacket. Works the same way as buffalo but is lighter and cooler. I've worn Buffalo since 1990 and have the shirt, hood, mitts, trousers, salopettes, and even the underpants! I swear by it.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

@@richardhallyburton 😂😂😂 I have the Montane Mens Fireball Lite Insulated Hooded Jacket, for the cooler periods. That’s has been fantastic and seems a great crossover, but I’d still like to take a look at the wind shirt 👍

[@jondv5278]

yep, I defo want one, need to start saving the pennies though, great vid, seen other youtubers giving good reviews

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks for your comment. Trust me you won’t regret it. I love the Buffalo shirt 👍

[@MartinvonBargen]

I'm a Big Face shirt man myself. Wear mine from October to April in Norway, normally when walking/running with my dogs. There's no ride up with the strap as they pull on the shirt through the belt. Mine is hammered from walking through vegetation and forests. I'd love to see some rip-stop Pertex being designed if possible. Even in the autumn when we get tons of rain, it keeps me warm where other jackets would just give up and be a liability. We've had down to -25C this winter and the only time I've felt cold in the jacket is when I've forgotten to close the belly pocket, which is where I keep the poo bags! Best piece of kit I've ever bought and I got my first Special 6 donkey's years ago.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

The big face shirt is great too. I bought mine in an outdoor shop that sold mainly military gear and the chap selling it was ex forces. The special 6 was his recommendation (which I love) but I totally agree with the rip-stop Pertex. In times when I’ve gone mountain biking with it on I’m paranoid about scagging it in the woods! That would be a great addition! Thanks for watching 🙏🏼

[@MartinvonBargen]

@@PhilipOlsen11 Very similar experience for me buying my first one in Liverpool at Soldier Of Fortune. A mate at college had one and I saved up with my Saturday job and that was the start of the love affair. The worst damage was done by walking the dogs back into the house and the dead bolt on the door is like a razor. Big slash across the belly which only reminds me it's there when it's really windy. Will deffo subscribe and keep watching the channel. I'm guessing you're Welsh and I've got a real soft spot for Snowdonia. Norway's really just Wales on steroids, but without the friendly people. :D

[@PhilipOlsen11]

@@MartinvonBargen thank you. 🙏🏼 Yea I’m Welsh but with a surname (Olsen) you’ll guess that my family are Norwegian heritage. Such a shame you ripped the jacket - I’d be gutted 😬

[@MartinvonBargen]

@@PhilipOlsen11 It made a sound like old canvas tearing, and I was gutted. Luckily it's normally covered with the dog belt. I'm a mad mix of German, Welsh and Irish. Any idea how the Norwegians made it to Wales? Legend has it that my grandad walked to Liverpool from Welshpool with his family when his dad was looking for a job. If you're ever after an Norwegian kit, just let me know.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

@@MartinvonBargen that is a real mix 😂 My family came here about 120 years ago on a beer drinking festival at Cardiff 😁. They ended up staying and got work as coal trimmers in the docks. Thanks for that kind offer. Funny enough my nephew is out there at the moment. Not sure where as he’s travelling around the country 👍

[@emmaolsen1828]

Great review 👍

[@jinksomiabodyart3189]

:) it's really cold... -1, -2 C or F? Love the shirt. Great video.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thank you. It was about -7 C 🥶 at the top, but a bit cooler where I did the review 👍

[@thebeatentrack156]

I'm getting one, thank you Phil 😊

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Great. You’ll love it 😂❤️

[@colinpearce7079]

Hi,I’ve got a Buffallo jacket,it’s a bit thinner than the Special 6,not sure what name is but like yours it acts as an everything top,walking,cycling or general use,now I’ve seen the Special 6 I might invest in one atb Colin P,👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks for watching. You should read some of the other comments here. Anyone who’s ever owned one raves about them and some people have had them for decades. I have more expensive jackets but none come anywhere near it. Just be aware it’s not the warmest if your just stood still for long periods. But if your moving you’ll find nothing better 👍

[@nationalparksprincess3216]

Great review, Phil 😊

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@MrTimtim65]

I've worn Buffalo for many many years, from head to ankle (how about some socks Buffalo??) and I have to say that wearing the shirt against your skin is a MUST if you want to get the best from it. Exposing your skin to the is the most effective way of dumping excess heat. I've yet to find anything to wear underneath that wicks as well as the pile lining. I can tell this because when I don't wear an under layer the pile feels slightly damp (as does the layer) whereas nest to the skin the Buffalo is dry.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Your comment is very similar to what a number of others say. I agree with you that it’s best worn without a top underneath. For me though I have a great wicking montane top. I’d rather wear something as I don’t like the idea of sweating in it regularly and having to wash it as I sometimes wear it out and about. So for me a top underneath works better 👍

[@super_yummy]

like 30 Love the jacket Phil ,The strap part is excellent

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@StoppedForaWhile]

Great!!!❤❤

[@lakota_stu]

Get the hood for it, absolute game changer!!

[@PhilipOlsen11]

I’ll take your advice on that as I have thought about it 👍

[@berniecoles2337]

Love mine. One word of warning is they’re not great near campfires, as any small spark instantly melts a hole in the pertex outer.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks for the tip. I’d be gutted if that happened 😬

[@berniecoles2337]

@@PhilipOlsen11 I was at first, but they’re hardly noticeable, the burn holes self seal with the melted edges and it doesn’t affect its performance. I now think of them as war wounds through years of use.😉

[@johndoe-nh9sh]

A couple of things with these from my own experience. Don't get me wrong they are a great bit of kit but like anything there are compromises and limitations. Pertex is the outer nylon layer which can be nik-washed to aid waterproofing but these are not waterproof coats in the same way as a hardshell where water beads off. To keep warm you've got to keep moving, your body heat is what dries the jacket (which is best worn with just a base layer on or next to the skin and when you're walking layering is not ideal as it will stop the heat reaching the pile layer and drying the jacket if wet), as soon as you stop moving for a prolonged period you will over time get cold.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

All good points. I’ve found with the buffalo that it’s a great hiking/cycling jacket but if you stop you will get cold. I’ve washed mine in Nik-wax a coke of times to aid it, but it doesn’t claim to be waterproof, but water repellent. Actually though I’ve been in very heavy rain and it’s not yet come through , but I’m sure it will. For 50 year old technology it’s still pretty amazing. Thanks for your comment 🙏🏼

[@johndoe-nh9sh]

@@PhilipOlsen11 You're welcome and I agree, they are a great bit of kit. FWIW I like Paramo gear for when the weather goes a bit British.

[@openmindedwonderer]

really great review 🙂

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks so much!

[@cxkiie8653]

❤

[@carforumwanker]

They made a small run with longer length backs ....

[@PhilipOlsen11]

They’re great jackets 👍

[@scotttalbot4041]

I had the Mountain Jacket about 20 odd years ago. It stopped me from getting hypothermia! No idea what happened to it!?! I remember putting a small tear in it, but not enough to chuck it, so God knows... Every time I need a new jacket, I play with the idea of Buffalo, but always choose something else, then regret it. 🙄

[@PhilipOlsen11]

It’s interesting that I’ve bought a couple of other jackets also. Yet every time I go for a hike and I know it could potentially be really bad weather I always trust and go with the buffalo. Sometime I even question wearing very little underneath and again I’m amazed at just how good it is. You should go for it, I’d never be without it now 👍

[@Eightball69]

For me Montana do pile and pertex garments better than anyone. Fit is better and features are more thought out 👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Montane are great. I’ve got a few Montane and love them. I think the Buffalo has stead the test of time. Developed in the 70’s and through personal use in the very harsh conditions it has never once failed me. I think the benefits is its simplicity rather than being overly complicated. With all different brands they’ll have things the one company do better than the other 👍

[@citizenphaid1880]

You’re not actually meant to wear anything underneath.

[@1971382]

Your right. But I always like to have a little something underneath as when I stop it can get cold so nice to have a little base layer 👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

I agree 👍

[@dannylaing5585]

One of the best thing Ive worn under mine is a string vest

[@thierrybervoets3604]

I Love Buffalo gear I have 3 Jacket . Special 5 and special 6 and the amazing Antarctic one that I bought 30 years ago . And the 3 jackets are in perfect conditions. BUT for the best result you Must wear buffalo against the skin and nothing else . And you must protect your nipple with a plaster . Why : because after many hours of walk the salt in your perspiration will burn the skin of your nipple in contact with the pile fleece of the jacket.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Great tip 😁 I agree, buffalo is an amazing piece of kit. I’ve watched videos of ones who’ve had them for years and they still work perfectly 👍

[@BarrieGrieve]

Techlite shirt for the rest of the year

[@PhilipOlsen11]

I’ve never come across one of them so just googled it. I’ve just bought a Fjalkraven ABISKO trail shirt (which I filmed Review of). I’ll keep my eye open for the Techlite 👍

[@xix94]

The British army use one like this that looks similar

[@PhilipOlsen11]

I’ve been to the army surplus near me and saw similar jackets. Great quality for the price you pay 👍

[@Bkcommercialphotography]

Sold! lol

[@CottonBud]

Very scenic vid, but once again we have someone wearing a layer underneath. Buffalo recommend you wear it directly on the skin, no layers. Literally nobody on KZbin seems to observe this! I don't know why, it's warmer and works better if you do...

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Hi thanks for the comment. I totally agree with the premise of wearing nothing underneath. But what I have found over the years is that on its own if you stop it doesn’t keep you very warm, as it’s designed to work better when moving. Also I don’t like the idea of a jacket that’s constantly covered by sweat, so I wash the base layer and not the jacket constantly 👍

[@CottonBud]

@@PhilipOlsen11 Fair points Phil. Funnily enough I was up on a wild camp in The Black Mountains the weekend before your vid was filmed wearing mine (another sub zero one, do you remember? The night of the 'moon halo'? Everywhere was solid ice even in the day) and I agree that it definitely doesn't work when you are still, which is why I swap to a good three layers of merino and down as soon as I get the tent pitched. But as my walking top it worked perfectly with no layers underneath - and I'm quite the wimp when it comes to temperature. I've also been surprised to find that it actually doesn't offer much benefit when worn over other layers, especially if they are thick ones like jumpers etc. As for the sweat/dirt thing, it was a worry for me too, as I don't like to wash performance kit like this unless absolutely necessary - it's never quite the same after is it? Maybe I shouldn't be too proud of this but in the 4 years I've had mine I've lived in it every winter, and hiked many, many miles in it, but never washed it. I try and 'air' it on a hanger, inside out, and outdoors in a breeze if possible. And it doesn't smell of BO at all yet, just a slight 'earthiness' 😅I may not get away with it for much longer.... Anyway, sorry to pick up on this particular point. It's a great well researched vid, but I do think this point is one that is understated on KZbin in general. I understand why - it's a real leap of faith to hit the mountains in winter wearing a only a coat and nothing else on yer top half... 👍

[@PhilipOlsen11]

@@CottonBud don’t worry I’ve only washed it twice in 5 years and warn it loads 😂 Funnily enough I go camping and that’s exactly what I’ve found that on those occasions I rather layer up. I’ve also got Merino base layer that I don’t often wash as it is great for not smelling of BO. I just realised you have a channel. I’ve subscribed so will check out a couple of your videos 😊👍

[@natcain]

I'm trying to lose weight solely for the reason of fitting back into my Buffalo.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

The buffalo has more uses than I realised 😂😂

[@grahamriley8124]

Not for me, the arms are too short. Which is a basic fail because in many other brands this is not the case. It mystifies me how outdoor companies get basics like this wrong.

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Thanks for watching. The arms seem to be fine for me, but I know some do like them longer 👍

[@grahamriley8124]

As I said in other brands the arms are not a problem. Buffalo have got it wrong. It is not the end of the world if the user finds the arms a little long - I have several pieces with long arms. But too short is a complete fail especially if users have to size up to a larger torso size to account for it - and in a brand that says you have to get the right fit!@sucofnisucofni8935

[@geraldolsen109]

You need to ask the company to supply you different colours to try out 🙃❤️

[@PhilipOlsen11]

Now that’s an idea. I’ll get you one 😂👍❤️

[@ianstafford4859]

Love buffalo stuff have wind shirt gloves belay jackets I wouldn’t buy different there the best I always smile to my self when I see people in rab north face etc as I know I have the better jacket 😂