On Sunday, January 7, BUFF Founder, Joan Rojas, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 71. For more than 25 years, Rojas has been a source of inspiration, innovation, and passion behind “The Original Multifunctional Performance Headwear.”
In 1946, in Barcelona, Spain, Rojas was born into the family textile business with a deep knowledge and understanding of textile manufacturing that dates back to 1927, when the Rojas family founded its factory. He would continue the tradition of textile innovation with the founding of BUFF in 1992. An idea that hatched while touring the country roads of Catalonia around Igualada on his motorcycle, Rojas’ demand for a warmer, more protective solution to the sun, wind, and cold became the foundation of The Original BUFF Multifunctional Headwear product.
At his family’s knitting factory – the same factory in which BUFF continues to operate today, Rojas produced the first samples of the seamless, tubular accessory. Within three years of bringing his idea to life, BUFF Products were being distributed and sold in Germany, France, Switzerland, and other parts of Europe.
BUFF USA GM and VP Shirley Choi Brunetti said, “Joan remained as passionate about product design as ever, and continued to support the BUFF culture of innovation and growth. We are proud and humbled to carry on the spirit and the legacy of Joan Rojas. He has been a part of the BUFF family, and a close friend to many more.”
