Exploring the outdoors can be made more enjoyable when you’re comfortable on your trip. That’s why hikers, backpackers, trail walkers, and bird watchers pays attention to the finer details of their equipment. If you’ve ever spoken to a hiker or backpacker who has purchased an ill-fitting pair of shoes, then you’ll hear first-hand the horrors of an uncomfortable journey.
Along with a great pair of shoes comes with it the demand for keeping the inside of those shoes dry and debris-free. Water, snow, pebbles, and all sorts of wildlife have a way of sneaking through even the most waterproof of shoes and turning your outdoor adventure into an uncomfortable mess. Gaiters were created with this issue in mind. Designed to cover the tops of your boots to add an extra layer of protection for your feet, gaiters are a great purchase for anyone looking to explore the outdoors.
Shop our extensive line of gaiters at Outdoor Shopping.
Design
Gaiters are fairly simple in design. They’re engineered to prevent anything from entering your footwear while having little to no additional impact on the wearer. Thus, the design is ergonomic and tailored with outdoor activities in mind.
Anatomy
Water-Resistant Uppers : You’ll find that the height of the boot determines what the gaiter can keep out of your shoe, and the taller boots have water-resistant uppers in their design. This is created to keep snow and other liquids out of your boots.
Lace Hooks : Your gaiters stay firmly centered on your shoe and pulled down over the top of your laces with lace hooks for added security.
Instep Strap : In addition to lace hooks, the instep strap goes under your shoe and keeps your gaiters down over your footwear. Basic gaiters come with simple lace straps while other premium gaiters feature beefier leather/synthetic straps for extra durability (better for hikers or backpackers on rugged terrain).
Abrasion-Resistant Lowers : Even the shorter gaiters have abrasion-resistant lowers, which is the part of the gaiter sleeve that comes just above the ankles and is created to resist wear-and-tear.
Front Entry : This area opens and allows for the user to put the gaiters on even after their boots are on. It can be made of rip-and-stick fasteners (like VELCRO) or can be zippered (although zippers are harder to use when your hands are cold in alpine conditions). Some models will offer a rear entry, although these are a bit trickier to maneuver.
Top Closure : It’s simple: The top closure is where your gaiter stays closed for the duration of their use. Basic gaiters are typically cinched with toggles and elasticized drawcords. Other fancier models may feature a dedicated top strap with cam buckle.
Materials
When it comes to gaiters, the material composition will help determine what your gaiters can and cannot resist when it comes to protecting your footwear. Most gaiters will feature the abrasion-resistant lowers and water-resistant uppers, but some will cut out the uppers altogether. Regardless, there are a few fabrics typically used for gaiters:
Fabric | Guidelines | Best for: |
Gore-Tex | Provides superior waterproof, windproof protection, and breathability. |
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Cordura Nylon | Super abrasion-resistant. You may find this material on the lowers and not the uppers. |
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Coated Nylon | Extremely light, best for casual use. |
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Schoeller Fabrics | Soft-shell fabrics that offer flexibility and excellent weather protection. |
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Low VS High Gaiters
We’ve mentioned before that there are two basic types of gaiters: low and high. Choosing which one is right for you depends on your needs and expected conditions when traversing the outdoors.
Type | Guidelines | Best for: | Example |
Low Gaiters | Ankle high (8-12” tall) and suited for less-than-extreme conditions. |
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High Gaiters | Calf high (15-18” tall) and suited for more rugged outdoor activity. |
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Shop our extensive line of gaiters at Outdoor Shopping.
Which Gaiter is Right for You?
Sure, all of these guidelines are a great tool to choosing the right gaiter for you, but let’s break it down based on gaiter types as well as different outdoor scenarios to show you the preferred type of gaiter for your specific needs.
Gaiter Type | Guideline | Best for: |
Trail Gaiters | Lightweight, breathable gaiters designed for light debris and mild weather conditions. |
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Alpine Gaiters | Offer added durability and protection against abrasion and water. |
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Expedition Gaiters | Offer heavy-duty protection and added insulation for extended trips in extreme weather. |
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Women’s Gaiters | These can be any of the above, but some gaiters are designed specifically with women in mind with shorter heights and wider girth at the calves. |
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Additional Tips
Once you have a good idea of which gaiters to choose, take a look at these additional tips to ensure that you’re making the right investment:
Fit : A snug fit means that less debris and water will make its way into your footwear.The goal is to achieve the best possible seal around your boot.
Use Rain Pants : If you’re planning on a trip with extreme weather and wet conditions, considering using rain pants in conjunction with your gaiters for ultimate water resistance.
Avoid Zippers for Winter Use : When your hands are cold and covered in gloves, it’s easier to use a Velcro front closure rather than a zipper.
