Military Shemaghs and Tactical Bandanas
Arafat Scarf and Tactical Bandana: How to Choose
An arafat scarf, or shemagh, is a square scarf worn around the neck, head or face to protect against sun, wind and dust. A military arafat scarf comes in muted colors: coyote, olive or gray combined with black, so it blends in with your uniform. A tactical bandana is more compact: it is worn on the head or under a helmet. Before you buy an arafat scarf or bandana, decide on the size and the way you will wear it.
Which Shemagh Size and Color to Choose
Shemaghs come in sizes of 95×95, 100×100 and 110×110 cm. A smaller scarf is more convenient as a neck scarf: there is less excess fabric under the collar and body armor. The 110×110 cm size gives enough fabric to wrap around your head and cover your face, leaving only your eyes open. This size is offered, for example, by the MIL-TEC 110×110 cm shemagh in coyote with black.
Several models are listed as 100% cotton. It is soft, breathable and dries quickly. Choose the color to match your uniform: coyote suits sand-colored uniforms and multicam, olive suits green ones. If a product page lists several colors, these are options to choose from, not a single scarf with all the shades. For the model with prints, the colors are assorted, and you cannot select a specific one on the site.
Bandana or Arafat Scarf
Tactical cotton bandanas come in two types. The 102×75 cm models are secured with ties at the back of the head, fit snugly on the head and work as a helmet liner or a cap. They come in camouflage (multicam or pixel) and solid colors (olive or coyote). The triangular pixel MM-14 bandana scarf is more versatile: it can be worn as a headband, neck scarf, mask or balaclava.
An arafat scarf covers a larger area and protects better against dust. A bandana is lighter and does not get in the way under a helmet.
You can find other models in the tactical headwear category. For full face protection, tactical balaclavas are a good choice, and for sun protection — military boonie hats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you tie an arafat scarf on your head?
Fold the shemagh diagonally into a triangle and place it on your head. Wrap the ends around your head and tie them at the back, and if needed, use the free edge to cover your face. The 110×110 cm size is the most convenient for this.
How do you wash a cotton arafat scarf?
Wash on a delicate cycle without bleach, separately from light-colored items. Dry it laid flat, so the fabric deforms less.
How is a shemagh different from a buff?
A shemagh is a large scarf that can be tied in different ways. A buff is a seamless tube of fabric that you simply pull over your neck or head. These models are collected in the buffs category.