The Best Leg Gaiters
You can protect your feet and legs from frigid, damp conditions without purchasing expensive, cumbersome boots by getting yourself a pair of leg gaiters. Leg gaiters are a fantastic product used primarily in hiking, fishing, and even bicycling in adverse weather conditions. A leg gaiter consists of a length of water-resistant or waterproof material that extends from around the ankle to the mid-calf, featuring an under bootstrap and Velcro to hold everything together. If you find yourself transversing thick mud, deep puddles, or unrelenting precipitation on your outdoor adventures, check out our leg gaiters for ultimate protection from the elements.
Hikenture Leg Gaiters
Wonderous water warrior
If hard-to-navigate trails are dragging you down, trust Hikenture to propel you through deep dirt and snowdrifts without drenching your feet. We recommend these gaiters for backpacking in deep woods where precipitation and blizzard-like conditions can be unpredictable. Their small footprint and minimalist design make these gaiters so versatile in a wide variety of weather events. While the weather-resistant lining does mean less airflow to your calves and ankles, Hikenture uses thin nylon that doesn’t cause you to overheat. When you need to repel everything short of a monsoon, Hikenture is the right fit for your next adventure.
Pros:
- The zip-up design is fast and convenient
- Built from durable Oxford cloth
- Added security with front lace strap
Cons:
- These gaiters’ sizing runs slightly large
Pike Trail Leg Gaiters
Mud meets its match
These leg gaiters by Pike Trail provide a formidable fit that’ll serve you well in wet and frozen conditions alike. At nearly 15 inches in length, this one-size-fits-all pair will accommodate thick and thin calves all the same with a surefire Velcro seal that’s applied in seconds. Pike Trail really impressed us with the quality of materials used in the construction. All metal fasteners and ties are forged from stainless steel to prevent corrosion, while the polyester core keeps heat trapped during the cold months. While the understrap might have some difficultly on unreasonably rough roads, this pair of gaiters is your lightweight solution for blending in on hikes and hunts all season long.
Pros:
- Available in three solid colors or four camouflage variations
- Mesh carrying case included with purchase
Cons:
- Not suited for snakebite protection or extreme weather use
Unigear Leg Gaiters
Wet won't wear you out
If you’re looking for a simple solution for keeping debris out of your boots without breaking the bank, Unigear’s leg gaiters are a top contender. Not all gaiters are made equal and with good reason. Say, for example, your excursion takes you through a relentless swarm of flying insects or dense underbrush. In humid months, the waterproofing of an impermeable gaiter would provide the necessary protection, but at the cost of overheating. If hydration is scarce and high-pressure water streams are unlikely, Unigear’s gear will make quick work of thorns, dust, and bugs without constricting or costing too much.
Pros:
- Available in green, black, or grey
- Abrasion- and tear-resistant polyester
Cons:
- The understrap could be longer for easier tightening
Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters
Puddle-proofing perfected
You can tackle everything from streams to rain in style while wearing a pair of Outdoor Research’s Crocodile Gaiters. Outdoor Research is all about its commitment to durable outerwear, and the Crocodile Gaiters’ use of patented Cordura nylon proves their commitment is watertight. The exterior of the Cordura material is coated with impenetrable Gore-Tex waterproofing that provides ultimate resistance against liquids. With an abrasion-resistant understrap and accommodating upper, these gaiters will slip over any-sized boot and give you protection that lasts through your most ambitious activities.
Pros:
- Machine-washable
- Unwavering protection against poison ivy and thorns
- Nearly a foot of over-boot protection
Cons:
- Gore-Tex can cause overheating in warmer climates
Vaude Unisex Bike Gaiter
Toe-to-shin coverage
These unisex gaiters are a hit with bikers due to their lightweight design that can deflect small projectiles and debris while you’re speeding downhill. Outdoorsy types that have permeable shoes will find these gaiters helpful for walking short distances as well. The major drawback, unfortunately, is the same feature that is its biggest draw. The gaiter’s under-toe strap does not excel in rough terrain because of its soft fiber composition. While this unit would shine when paired with snowshoes or bicycles, you should look elsewhere when embarking on multi-day excursions with crampons.
Pros:
- Great for walking on paved surfaces
- A wide array of size choices for the perfect fit
- Superior value for the price
Cons:
- Very expensive, but built to last
Frequently Asked Questions
What activities most frequently require gaiters?
Gaiters are useful whenever adverse weather conditions or environmental factors such as high brush or insect swarms are involved. Gaiters utilize a variety of fabrics because they need to be built for every season. As long as you’re cognizant of fabric thickness, waterproofing material, and your typical surroundings, gaiters can offer you protection from the elements during any make any walk, hike, or bike ride.
How were gaiters invented?
Gaiters have existed for a long time in the standing armies of European countries. Before the design change, spatterdashes (the long predecessors to modern gaiters) used wool to reinforce the standard uniform. Due to breathability issues, wool fell out of style for the much-preferred linen version and ultimately, canvas. While many distinct cultures independently built this essential equipment, we arrive at the modern name by way of the French term guêtre.
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