Gaiters protect our lower legs from becoming wet and muddy. Throughout autumn, winter, and spring, grass can be laden with dew well into the morning. It also remains wet long after rain has subsided. This grass, particularly wild, tall grass will saturate the lower area of our trousers. Broken grass, seeds and leaves can stick to this area and can even find its way into your boots. Mud from the bottom of your boots will also scuff each opposite leg.

Gaiters protect this area that’s so vulnerable to dirt and damp by covering the lower legs and top of boots with a waterproof material.

They are often overlooked by amateur backpackers and hikers, but for anyone who has spent a decent amount of time off the trail they remain a must have, essential item of clothing to have in your inventory. For more advice on clothing click here.

Why not wear waterproof trousers?

Waterproof trousers might protect the wearer from exposure to moisture, but are overkill when its not raining and you’re only trying to protect yourself from dew, mud or snow. Despite technological developments in breathable, waterproof fabrics, waterproof trousers can still seem hot and stifling. Gaiters on the other hand leave the upper legs exposed, allowing for the optimal heat transfer found in modern outdoor trousers made from synthetic materials.

How to determine the quality of gaiters

While low quality gaiters will be good enough for short walks, Experienced backpackers will need a pair of high quality gaiters.

The quality of a pair of gaiters can be determined by how waterproof and breathable they are. These are normally be listed as ‘breathability’ and ‘waterproofing’ in the products specifications. Other things to consider are comfort and durability which can often be determined by customer ratings.

Here are some of our top picks:

OUTAD Walking Gaiter

Outad Hiking gaiters are waterproof to 6010mm. Made from 610D Oxford fabric and are available in four colours.

Berghaus Expeditor Gaiter

”For additional protection from the elements on your next hike take the Berghaus Expeditor Gaiter ideal for anywhere on the trail. This all-purpose gaiter is designed to fit under the knee and a comfortable fit is ensured with the full front hook and loop storm flap, internal volume adjuster draw cord and off set press stud. It also has a reflective trim on the rear of the gaiter to keep you visible when in the dark.”

BLACK CRYSTAL Hiking Gaiters

Black Crystal hiking Gaiters are decent quality for a reasonable price.

• Upper portion 70D 3-layer waterproof breathable nylon fabric. Lower portion 1000D 3000mm CORDURA ultra-durable waterproof nylon fabric.
• 15mm DURAFLEX aluminum buckles, smooth to pull.
• Metal hook at the bottom to fasten to shoe lace.
• Dual locks for front closure, use strap at top and Velcro zipper
• Instep straps use roller buckles to fasten, professional grade TPU for enhanced durability

Karrimor Munro Gaiter

Karrimor Munro Gaiters good quality and well rated.

• Waterproof 10,000mm.
• Breathable 5,000mm.
• Durable ripstop panels.
• Elasticated mid and base.
• Elasticated drawcord top.

 

 

 

SODIAL Walking Gaiters

Sodial Walking Gaiters are incredibly cheap. Great for the less serious hiker.

• Designed for rugged outdoor use.
• Quality product for those requiring Reliable and Durable Adventure Equipment. Waterproof and Wind resistant .
• Waterproof and Wind resistant. Making your Gaiters. Resistant to Damage from Abrasion, Scuffs and Tears.
• Protects your Boots and Trousers from Water, Rain and Mud. One size fits most.
• Size: length – approx.40cm/15.7″; circumference – approx.50cm/19.7″.