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.
