| What they do | Block snow, mud, scree, water |
| Types | Trail (low) to mountaineering (tall) |
| Worn over | Lower leg + boot top |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
Gaiters are protective sleeves worn over the lower leg and the top of the boot to keep out snow, mud, scree, water, and debris. They range from low trail gaiters that block trail grit to tall, waterproof mountaineering gaiters for deep snow, and keep feet drier and more comfortable on rough terrain.
What they block
They seal the gap above your boots against snow, mud, water, and scree — the grit that causes blisters.
Types
Low trail gaiters for grit and light moisture; tall, waterproof mountaineering gaiters for deep snow and crampon use.
Frequently asked questions
What are gaiters for?
Gaiters seal the gap between your boots and trousers to keep debris out — snow, mud, scree, pebbles, water, and even ticks and burrs. This keeps your feet drier, more comfortable, and free of the grit that causes blisters.
Do you need gaiters for hiking?
Not always, but they're very useful in snow, deep mud, wet brush, loose scree, and trail running on gritty trails. For dry, well-groomed paths in good weather you can usually skip them; in rough or wet conditions they make a real difference.
What's the difference between trail and mountaineering gaiters?
Trail (or 'low') gaiters are short and light, designed to keep trail grit and light moisture out. Mountaineering gaiters are tall, tough, and waterproof, built to seal out deep snow and work with crampons in serious alpine conditions.
Sources
- Hiking apparel — American Hiking Society