Gaiters protect the vulnerable tops of your boots and prevent snow, pebbles and water from sneaking in. They are an essential part of all mountaineering gear and help keep your boots dry while also securing your feet from insects. Gaiters come in different sizes and materials, each suitable for different kinds of activities.
This article provides all the necessary information about gaiters, including different types, parts and also a quick guide to wearing them with ease.
Different Types of Gaiters and their Usage
Hiking: These are typically used during short hikes or sometimes even multiple day hikes to protect against rock and mild rain. They are lightweight, breathable and some are even fully waterproof to protect from snow and water.
Mountaineering: These are used for ice-climbing, skiing and mountaineering. They are made from breathable and waterproof fabric with added insulation to protect from snow and rain. They are designed to offer heavy-duty protection in harsh climatic conditions.
Trail Running: These are typically used by people who wear trail running shoes and are compact and lightweight. They are not waterproof and their primary function is to keep debris out of your shoes.
Over the Ankle: These are used for trail running and are smaller in length. They just serve as a protective barrier to keep mud or pebbles from entering your shoes.
Mid Calf: While these are not suitable for extreme conditions, they keep rain and trail debris out of your boots. They are 8-12 inches in length.
Knee: These are used in harsh conditions such as deep snow and bad weather. They are 15-18 inches in length and are suitable for mountaineering and ice-climbing.
Parts of a Gaiter
Fastenings and Storm Flap: Fastenings refer to the part of the gaiter that helps secure or fasten the gaiter on the leg. Cheaper gaiters have velcro fastenings whereas the more expensive models have zippers. Gaiters with zippers have a storm flap covering the zipper along with waterproof zips.
Pull Cord: This is made of elastic and it helps adjust the fit of the gaiter to secure it tightly around the legs.
Elasticated Ankle: Some of the gaiters available in the market are elasticated, offering a tighter fit and preventing water from seeping in.
Lace Hook: Lace hooks allow you to fasten your gaiters to your shoelaces to offer the best fit.
Stirrup Strap: This part of the gaiter goes below the outsole of your boots in order to hold the gaiters down at the point where the sole meets the heel. These straps are adjustable, allowing you to get the right fit.
How to Wear a Gaiter
The following are a few simple steps to put on your gaiter:
- Open the gaiters completely and position the stirrup strap at the point where the outsole of your boot meets the heel. The adjusting mechanism of the stirrup strap should be on the outside of your boots, that is how you can distinguish between the right and left leg gaiters from each other. If the stirrup strap is not outside, you know you got the wrong gaiter on the leg.
- Zip up the gaiter to 3 inches and make use of the pull cord to prevent the zip from getting undone.
- Use the lace hook to secure it in place.
- Continue zipping the gaiters and adjust the fastenings.
- Adjust the stirrup strap in such a way that you have a tight secure fit. Secure the excess so it does not get in your way.
- Finally adjust the elasticated pull cord so that you have a snug and comfortable fit. Ensure that it is not too tight. A gaiter that is too tight could restrict blood flow.
Maintenance and Storage
Like all mountaineering gear, gaiters also require care and maintenance. The following are few easy tips to care for them:
- Rinse the gaiter in clean water after use. Use a toothbrush and mild soap to clean the dirt.
- While cleaning the velcro, ensure that you use an old toothbrush to prevent the straps from sticking together.
- Air dry the gaiters for a few hours.
- Once the gaiters are fully dry, store them in a cool, dry place away from the sun.
- Do not machine wash or dry the gaiters as that could potentially damage the velcro.
That’s all about gaiters! We hope the information covers everything you wished to know about gaiters. Should you have any further questions, our team is always available to help you out!
