A slightly unconventional piece of gear in the lightweight hiking, camping, and bushcraft community are Shemaghs. If you’re unfamiliar, a Shemagh is a 42″ x 42″piece of soft 100% Cotton with frayed edges. Shemaghs are most popular in Middle Eastern countries, as well as in the military and tactical community. However, these seemingly oversized bandanas have a ton of benefit in the outdoors as well.
It wasn’t until I was laying in my hammock the other day that I thought, wow, I really use my Shemagh(s) for everything. So, with said, I want to give you all 7 Uses For A Shemagh, based on my experience using them.
#1. Face Covering
While I’m laying in my hammock or a tent, the last thing I want is for flies, mosquitos and other flying insects landing on me, ruining my relaxation. A shemagh is more than capable of covering your face, as well as most of your chest. Sure, it may get a bit more stuffy under there…But shemaghs are lightweight, thin and breathable so you shouldn’t have too big of an issue.
Pro-Tip: We also use Vicks Vapor Rub to keep flying critters away and it does a fantastic job.
Shown Above: Hults Bruk Almike Hatchet, Fallkniven F1, LightMyFire Army FireSteel and my trusty RedRock Black & Khaki Shemagh
#2. Clean Surface Area
I seem to always be looking for a clean and designated surface area to set things on while I’m outdoors. Whether it’s my camera, a cook pot lid, or my knife/firesteel so neither get lost. A shemagh is perfectly suited for these types of things.
Shown Above: Mora Bushcraft Black (read my full review of that knife here)
#3. Fire Prep & Tinder Collection
A Shemagh gives you a perfect surface area to collect your tinder and kindling for a fire. It keeps everything dry, contained and allows you to easily transfer it to the fire ring when you’re ready to light it up.
Read Also: UCO Sweetfire Fire Starter Review
#4. Neck Towel
I use my Shemaghs a lot in the summer time as a cooling rag while hiking. I either dip them into a creek or pour some water on them from my water bottle. They absorb moisture as well as a bandana, breath very well and make the hot summer heat more bearable.
#5. Carrying Stuff
Shemaghs can easily be tied into makeshift sling bags, making them perfect for carrying stuff. If you do a quick web search after you read this, you will find plenty of how-to articles. Whenever I improvise my Shemagh into a transportation device, it’s typically while I’m foraging around for small sticks and twigs for kindling.
#6. Makeshift Pillow
Shemaghs are large enough that they can easily be transformed into a makeshift pillow. So, if you have not gotten a lightweight camping pillow you can always stuff a down jacket, extra clothes or even soft leaves into a shemagh, tie the ends together and you’ll have a makeshift pillow.
#7. Kneeling / Sitting Pad
I use my Shemagh a lot as a kneeling and sitting pad. Whether I’m placing it on a log or around a campfire it makes things way more comfortable. Shemaghs, unfortunately, don’t offer much protection from moisture. However, they do provide a bit of cushion and protection against hard rocks and pointy sticks.
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Read Next: Hidden Woodsmen Minimal Haversack Kit
* Ethics Statement: Red Rock did not send me this Shemagh or any other products. I personally bought it, along with many other brands of Shemaghs. However, the Red Rock is my favorite. All opinions, statements, and content are my own.
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Q&A: If you have any questions about Shemaghs or anything else please drop me a comment below – I’d be more than happy to help!
Comments: What’s your favorite use for a shemagh? Or are you looking to add one into your kit? Let me know in the comments below!
