No one really likes wet and muddy boots. Hiking in snowy and muddy terrain can make keeping your feet dry a seemingly impossible task. However, having gaiters can help you work around muddy terrains better. Gaiters can help you enjoy your outdoor escapades better even when the trail and weather conditions are unfavourable.
There are lots of gaiters available in the market today, so finding the right fit might not be easy. However, we have come to your rescue as we will be reviewing some of the best gaiters that you can buy for better hiking experiences.
So, let’s get started.
The 11 Best Gaiters for Snowshoeing, Backpacking and Hiking
If you are looking for the best gaiters for hiking, then, you are in the right place. We will be covering eleven of the best gaiters available in this guide. We will also share with you some tips to make your buying process as easy as possible.
So, let’s dive in.
1. Outdoor Research Verglas
Designed to protect your lower legs from snow and rain. This gaiter can also keep out mud, twigs and small rocks.
The Outdoor Research Verglas is hard to beat when it comes to keeping your hiking boots dry and clean in the mountains. They are designed with abrasion-resistant ripstop nylon fabric to give you extra durability on the trail.
They come with reinforced Cordura panels around the high wear areas to help combat wear issues even when you use them frequently in rugged terrain. These gaiters never disappoint in keeping your feet dry in muddy regions. They are engineered with a 3L Pertex Shield waterproof breathable membrane so that you can stay dry in deep snow and heavy rain.
These outdoor gaiters come with a reliable front hook and loop closure system fused with a buckle top cinch strap to seal out snow and debris as you go about your hiking activities. They also feature a Hypalon instep strap that ensures a firm connection between the gaiters and your boots. You can certainly trust the performance of these gaiters.
Highlighted Features:
- Cordura panels to combat wear from frequent use.
- Hypalon instep strap for firm connection.
- Ripstop nylon fabric to offer extra durability.
- 3L Pertex shield waterproof membrane.
2. Outdoor Research Thru Gaiter
Whether you’re snowshoeing, backpacking or hiking, these gaiters provide waterproof protection for your legs and feet, without interfering with your gait or movement.
If you prefer hiking in the summer, then, these highly breathable gaiters by Outdoor Research should be top of your list. They feature blended ripstop nylon fused with recycled polyester construction to offer maximum breathability on hot days when hiking in mountainous areas.
These gaiters boast of a UPF 50 protection to ensure that you are shielded from the sun’s harmful rays. Their over-the-ankle design and Velcro closure system make these gaiters easy to put on and put off. As such, you can trust their reliability when it comes to fast and light hiking trips where time is a very important consideration.
These pair of gaiters are made with Outdoor Research’s proprietary Active Ice-cool technology. This technology makes it easy for these gaiters to have enhanced thermoregulation on hot days by wicking away sweat to keep you cool and dry. They are a solid option for your summer hiking experiences.
Highlighted Features:
- Active Ice technology for thermoregulation.
- UPF 50 protection to keep you shielded from sun rays.
- Velcro system for ease in putting on.
- Ripstop nylon and polyester construction to give you maximum breathability.
3. Kahtoola INSTAgaiter Mid
This is an essential piece of gear for keeping your lower extremities warm, dry and comfortable on all of your adventures.
When you see low-top hiking boots and shoes as your go-to footwear, then the water-resistant Kahtoola Instagaiter is here to meet your need. They are carved out of a stretch weaved nylon and polyester fabric to offer you breathability at the forefront of the design.
As typical with some of the best gaiters, these Kahtoola gaiters come with a DWR finish to ensure that your feet remain dry in light rain and wet conditions.
They also have a VISLON zipper entry system that makes it easy for you to quickly put them on before you go ahead with your hiking activities. They also feature a built-in flap behind the gaiter to prevent rain from seeping in.
They also feature an extra-rugged TPU instep strap underfoot fused with an elastic drawcord closure system at the ankle.
Highlighted Features:
- DWR finish for added water resistance.
- TPU instep strap to keep sand and rocks out of the boots.
- VISLON zipper allows for ease in putting them on.
- Breathability.
4. Salomon Trail Low Gaiter
A versatile and comfortable snowshoe gaiter. It works well in extreme conditions to keep you dry and comfortable all day long.
The Salomon Trail Low Gaiter is a fan’s favourite for hikes and trails and they come in great when it comes to ease of use and comfort on the trail. This innovative low gaiter fuses a unique blend of polyester, polyamide, and elastane fabric. This makes them stretch and fit the contours of your boots for an improved fit.
They also come with integrated padding around the sides of the ankle for improved protection as you move through the rugged terrains. The Trail Low gaiters also come in very versatile as they come with a reflective logo for visibility during nighttime runs and adventures.
One of the unique features of the Salomon Trail Low gaiters is the hook-up and closure system. They have a single piece of Velcro running down the front which is not common with most gaiters.
They also come with an innovative strap that wears well around your foot for improved comfort. These gaiters fit well for low-top boots for your hiking endeavours.
Highlighted Features:
- Breathable design for hot summer conditions.
- A wrap-around closure system for an improved fit.
- Lightweight and portable.
5. Pine Trail Leg Gaiter
They are built to prevent snow from getting into your shoes or even soaking your socks. They fit snugly and comfortably around the leg.
Backpackers and hikers will certainly fall in love with the Pine Trail gaiter as they offer quality performance at a very affordable price. They are made out of durable polyester which can help you hold up throughout several years of consistent use.
They also come with a fully adjustable design so you can use them with other boots with ease. Additionally, they also feature stainless-steel hardware that can better withstand rugged terrain better than their plastic counterparts.
Their knee-high design makes the gaiters an ideal choice for use in wet and muddy terrains. They also come with a stuff sack that you can easily store them with when you are not on the trail. They are a great value for their price.
Highlighted Features:
- Highly affordable.
- Comes with a stuff sack for storage.
- Adjustable design that makes them versatile.
- Stainless steel hardware for better durability.
6. Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain Low
It’s a waterproof and windproof gaiter which protects you from snow, rain, sand, and other nasty stuff while on the trail.
The Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain Low gaiters are a mid-calf gaiter design that has been constructed for backpacking and other excursions. They are a very affordable and water-resistant option that is just perfect, especially for alpine locales.
These gaiters have been designed to withstand frequent use as they feature a classic mid-calf gaiter and abrasion-resistant fabric shell. They also feature a set of reinforced boot lace hooks for improved durability in the mountains. Their Hypalon instep strap feature helps these gaiters shed snow to stop any annoying underfoot clumping as you hike.
They also come with an elasticized bottom edge that enables them to stretch over boots of any size. The elasticized upper closure system helps to seal out moisture and debris even as you move through the snow. They are perfect for backpacking and other warm-weather explorations.
Highlighted Features:
- High abrasion-resistant nylon design.
- Reinforced boots lace hooks for durability.
- Elasticized bottom edge to fit boots of different sizes.
- Mid-calf gaiter design.
7. Black Diamond GTX FrontPoint
Its unique design allows you to walk naturally without any discomfort or restriction. It is completely hassle-free, lightweight and breathable.
Whether you have a snowshoeing day planned or a fully-fledged winter camping expedition planned out, the Black Diamond GTX FrontPoint should be on the list of your top considerations. They feature a ripstop nylon construction that makes them abrasion resistant so they can easily handle frequent outings in rocky terrain.
The FrontPoint also comes with a three-layer Gore-Tex fabric for waterproofing. This means that you can trust them to be a solid option for winter environments. They also feature a hook and loop closure system for quick on and off in cold temperatures.
They come with a snap closure at the top to prevent them from slipping off in deep snowpacks. The FrontPoint features an instep strap that prevents debris from balling under your feet as you go about your hiking activities.
Highlighted Features:
- Gore-Tex membrane for waterproofing.
- Instep strap to prevent debris build-up.
- Ease in putting on and off.
8. Kenetrex Waterproof Breathable Hunting Gear
This gear is waterproof, breathable and insulated with a windproof front panel. It has a flexible construction for maximum comfort.
These Kenetrex gaiters are perfect for wintertime explorations. They feature a polyester shell fabric to keep you warm and dry always. They also come with Strom blocker waterproof membrane for protection in the winter period.
You can also count on their easy putting on and off abilities as they come with a Velcro close-up system
Their upper straps come with an adjustable design to ensure that you have a secure fit with these gaiters.
Highlighted Features:
- Storm blocker waterproof membrane.
- Hypalon straps to prevent debris buildup.
- Ease in putting on and off.
9. Rab Muztag GTX
Designed to keep snow, wind, and debris out of your boots while hiking. These gaiters are a perfect companion for your outdoor winter activities.
The Rab Muztag gaiters are a winter wonder that fuses balance and comfort into one piece. These gaiters will keep you warm and dry through your winter explorations without weighing you down.
They are fully waterproof and they are designed to sit just below your knee. This means that they are excellent for plunging through deep snow. They feature an instep strap that is wide, thick, and durable.
These Muztag gaiters come with a Velcro sewn-in system that ensures that they are held securely in place. The bootlace hook also comes in super secure to make for a very comfortable pair of gaiters.
Highlighted Features:
- Fully waterproof.
- Instep strap for thick, wide, and durable fit.
- Velcro sewn-in system for a secure fit.
10. Frelaxy Leg Gaiters
Ski, hike and enjoy the day with these water-resistant, non-slip neoprene leg gaiters. It protects the legs at all times.
These gaiters are designed to keep your leg safe, dry, and warm even in extreme weather conditions. They are designed to keep snow, water, dirt, and pebbles away from your pants or hiking boots.
They feature an anti-tear waterproof coated fabric that makes them maximize waterproof efficiency. They are also very durable and you can trust that your legs will remain comfortable in them for as long as you wear them.
These Frelaxy leg gaiters also feature a high-abrasion rubber instep strap fused with durable metal buckles to ensure that you have a firm grip.
Highlighted Features:
- High-abrasion rubber strap for a firm grip.
- Durable and comfortable.
- Waterproof fabric to maximize waterproof efficiency.
11. Hikenture Leg Gaiters
The hikenture leg gaiter is comfortable and easy to use. It is lightweight, durable and extremely comfortable to wear.
These gaiters come in handy to help you enjoy your climbing, hiking, and running outdoor activities. These gaiters have been designed for rugged conditions so you can walk through deep snow or hike in bad weather without issues.
The lower section of these Hikenture gaiters was made with nylon oxford cloth that helps the to resist water, snow, and shrubs. They also ensure that your legs remain dry always and leave you feeling comfortable.
The ripstop upper section guarantees you outstanding waterproof, breathability, and dirt-resistant abilities.
Highlighted Features:
- Ripstop uppers for waterproofing abilities.
- Nylon oxford cloth for better resistance.
- Breathable.
How to Choose the Right Gaiters for Snowshoeing – The Ultimate Guide
Snowshoeing is a winter sports activity that is enjoyed by people of all ages. For people who enjoy the coldest season of the year, it is a great way to enjoy outdoor activities while staying warm at the same time.
Snowshoeing is not only an enjoyable winter sport, it is also one of the most difficult winter sports. Gaiters are essential equipment for snowshoers because, without them, you will need to keep your boots on all winter long.
The right snow gaiters will keep your feet warm and your boots dry, while the wrong ones will keep your feet from performing their natural task of keeping your feet warm. With so many different types of snow gaiters on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones will work best for your specific needs.
To make things easier for you, we’ve put together this list of the best snow gaiters. We hope it will help you make the right choice for your needs.
- Look for snow gaiters that are made from durable materials. All snow gaiters should be made from durable materials so they will last for a long time.
- Look for snow gaiters that are adjustable to fit your specific feet. Most snow gaiters come in different sizes, so you can find the one that fits best for you.
- Look for snow gaiters that are made to keep your feet warm and dry. When you’re out in the cold, it’s important to stay warm and dry.
- Look for a snow gaiter that is comfortable to wear. Make sure the gaiter is comfortable to wear by choosing a design that is comfortable to wear all year round.
- Look for a snow gaiter that is easy to put on and take off. Make sure the gaiter is easy to put on and take off, so you won’t have to fumble around in the cold trying to get it on or take it off.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answer
Do I Need Gaiters for Snowshoeing?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, if you are only going to snowshoe for a few weeks out of the year, you don’t need to purchase any gaiters. However, if you are snowshoeing for an extended period of time, it is important to buy a pair of gaiters.
There are many different types and designs of snow gaiters, so it is important to find the one that will fit your specific needs.
How Do you Put Gaiters on Snowshoes?
The most common way to put gaiters on snowshoes is to place them over the top of your shoes. This will keep your feet warm and your boots dry. However, there are a few different ways to do this.
You can place them over the ends of your boots, or you can place them between the laces of your boots. If you place them over the ends of your boots, you will need to tie them off at the back.
If you place them between the laces of your boots, you can lace them up and leave them open. This will ensure that they are tight enough around both feet, but loose enough for easy removal in case of emergency.
Are Gaiters Worth It?
Gaiters are definitely worth the investment. In fact, if you go with the wrong type of snow gaiter, you could end up spending weeks or even months trying to get your feet warm.
If you want to stay safe and comfortable during your snowshoeing adventures, choose a gaiter that is designed specifically for snowshoers.
How Tight Should Gaiters Be?
Gaiters should be tight enough to protect your feet, but not so tight that it becomes uncomfortable. You want the gaiters to fit snugly, but not too tightly that they become uncomfortable.
If you have any questions about which gaiters are the best for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We can help you find the perfect snowshoe for your needs and ensure that you’re getting the most protection for your feet.
What is a Snow Gaiter?
A snow gaiter is a type of gear that is worn on the feet to keep them warm and dry during winter activities. There are many different types of snow gaiter, but the most popular are those that have straps that fit around the ankles.
Others have straps that fit around the calf or knee, making it easier for you to adjust them to your own personal foot type.
Conclusion
We have covered some of the best gaiters available in the market. So, you can look through our recommendations and make your pick. You should consider the weather conditions and terrains that we have highlighted that each gaiter works best in.
So, make that gaiter purchase now and go have fun.