The Difference Between Keffiyeh and Shemaghs

They keffiyeh is spelled keffieh or kefiyeh as well. Shemagh is not different than keffiyeh. It is just another name of keffiyeh. It is a traditional headscarf usually worn by Arabs especially Palestinians. It is mostly square-shaped in pattern and design. The quality keffiyehs are 100 percent cotton made and soft piece of cloth. Earlier, it was made to block sun heat, dust and to keep head cool in summers. In winters, they are used to block cold and wind. Later on, it became symbol of freedom among Palestinians men and women especially when Palestinian president started wearing it. In Palestine, black and white keffiyehs are common. Keffiyehs are now in trend not only in Arabs but foreigners also. Shemags and keffiyehs are very comfortable and durable head coverings. Around the globe, you can spot keffiyehs (Shemaghs) in big malls and shopping centers. They have become a fashion accessory. They can be used in every season in whatever way you like.

The shemaghs or keffiyehs are being used for many years in Middle East. People wrap it around their neck. European countries Soldiers also use it much when they are on duty in the hot, dry and humid areas of Middle East like Iraq, Afghanistan, and Lebanon etc. The keffiyeh is typically a square shape which is then folded half to give it a triangle shape. Then it is worn around the head and across the forehead. There is no age limit. People of all ages can wear it either on head or around neck. There are many uses of keffiyehs or shemaghs. Some of them are written below:

Prevent Heat and sun: It acts as a cooler cloth when tie up around neck and shoulders to prevent extra heat and humidity by covering up the face and neck area. Use a soaked or wet shemagh wrapped around neck covering the face to bear the extreme hot temperatures. 

Prevent from cold: Same like it keeps you away from heat and sun; it keeps your head warm in cold weathers. It helps in keeping the warm temperature. Wearing under hat or cap can enhance its warmness. 

Prevent you from Dust: It is an amazing dust and dirt protector. It is not necessary that it would protect against dust in sandy or stormy areas. It is also being used against dust and dirt in cities and non-sandy areas. It can also keep you away from flying insects.

Bandage: In emergency situations, it can also be used as bandage to help injured people. As it is made from cotton, it can be good to stop bleeding. So it serves you a best first aid kit. 

A bag: Again in urgent situation situations, you can use shemaghs or keffiyehs as bags. Just fold it up and by tying up the corners and put anything you need in middle specifically small travel accessories. 

Above are just some uses. You can use it in many other ways. Shemaghs and keffiyehs are not different. Wear them in the way you like and wear the fashion and comfort same time.