Gaiters
Posted by outdoormole on Mar 16, 2009Gaiters perform a single, simple function; they keep you from getting all types of foreign bodies (and we’re including rainwater in that category!) in your footwear.
They’re basically a waterproof garment worn over the top of the trousers at shin height so that they hang over the top of your walking boots, taking any rainwater away from your leg and preventing any little bits of grit that get kicked up from landing down the side of your boot and causing you irritation. There are different styles depending on where you intend to use them and they range in price from a cheap and cheerful £15 (don’t expect them to last) up to £50 or £60 for a tougher, more versatile pair.
The fabric used to make your gaiters is important. You want it to be waterproof, but also breathable so the best pairs are made of material like Gore-Tex. Be careful when you’re buying gaiters to twin with crampons to make sure they don’t catch on one another as the gaiters will inevitably come off worse!
