How to Choose Hiking Gaiters

Difference in materials

All modern gaiters are made of durable synthetic fabrics. The main difference is whether the inside of the material is coated with waterproof polyurethane impregnation or not. Each option has its own advantages. Gaiters made of waterproof fabric protect your feet well in the rain, when walking on wet grass or soggy roads. At the same time, in gaiters without impregnation, the legs sweat less when walking in warm sunny weather. It all depends on what conditions you expect more on your trip.

What to look for when buying

"Staples"

The first thing that wears out in any gaiters is the "staples" - the part running under the boot. Depending on the material from which it is made and the surface on which you will walk, it will grind sooner or later. But most often this happens much earlier than at least the first signs of wear out appear on the gaiters themselves. So if you expect to use gaiters quite intensively, choose models where the "staples" is not tightly sewn on, but the possibility of its replacement is provided.

Clasp

On most mountaineering gaiters is used a wide Velcro as a clasp - the most reliable and time-tested option. But on lighter models for the comfort of fastening thin fabrics a slide fastener is used. As practice shows, the slide fasteners often break down in camping conditions. So if breakage of gaiters can be a real nuisance for you, then choose a model where slide fastener is duplicated by a thin Velcro

The size

Tourist gaiters are sold in sizes: S, M, L. When buying them, it is desirable to measure them on the shoes with which you will wear them (or at least on shoes of the same size, taken from the show-case). The most important thing is to keep the gaiters firmly attached to the surface of the boot, leaving no gaps. Especially in the heel area, because when walking downhill, snow or small stones are often packed in this place if the gaiters are too large. If you plan to use crampons, then it is advisable to choose gaiters that will fit your legs as tightly as possible without forming bubbles or wrinkles. By doing this, you reduce the chance of tripping, accidentally catching the gaiter with the teeth of the crampons.