I’m going to be honest, even as a professional dork, it doesn’t get worse than this. If you want to look like a total goober on your next hike, then I present: hiking gaiters.
…but I’m going to be honest again. I don’t care. I’ve converted. I’m a gaiter girl. Plus, maybe they don’t really look that bad?
(No, they still make you look like a goober, but adventures aren’t about *looking cool*)
What even are hiking gaiters?
Hiking gaiters are basically fabric sleeves that cover the gap between your pants and boots to prevent things (like rocks, mud, snow, etc.) from getting into your shoes.
I wanted to wear my hiking boots later into the shoulder seasons. The issue was mud and slush, so I finally broke down this season and bought a pair of gaiters. They worked great and I got to enjoy some beautiful fresh snowfalls without things getting into my shoes (without having to downgrade to snow boots).
What do hiking gaiters actually do?
- They keep debris out (rocks, sand, pine needles, mud, etc.)
- They keep moisture out by blocking snow/slush and keeping your pant hems dryer
- They provide a little extra protection from the bugs and brush
Gaiters are a great addition to any hiking backpack and can really improve comfortability year round.
What don’t hiking gaiters do?
- Gaiters aren’t typically used for warmth
- Gaiters definitely aren’t worn for fashion (sorry)
When should you consider wearing gaiters?
Honestly, you can skip gaiters any time. They are a nice luxury but you can always get by without them. Now, with that said…
You might want gaiters…
- On gravelly trails or trails with lots of scree
- In the muddy shoulder seasons
- In brushy conditions where you want extra protection
- To reduce the sensory overload that comes with grit in your shoes
You can Definitely skip gaiters…
- On dry, maintained trails
- If you are hiking where debris isn’t an issue
It’s all about the height of your hiking gaiters
You choose a pair of gaiters based on their height — different activities are going to require different gaiters.
Over-the-ankle (high)
- Great for summer
- Best for everyday hiking
- Protects against gravel, sand, pine needles, etc.
- Lightweight and breathable
Mid-calf (higher)
- Great for shoulder seasons
- Best for snow, mud, or brushy trails
- More protects against debris, keeps your dryer
Under-knee (highest)
- Great for Canadian shoulder seasons
- Best for snow boot-level protection
- Heavier and more watertight
Pro-tip: I bought under-knee gaiters and they are *perfect* for the Rockies. I don’t mind that they are bulkier, I like the extra splashy slush protection. But unless you are doing something equivalent to hiking in Alberta in November or March, then under-knee gaiters might be overkill.
Summer vs. winter hiking gaiters
The shorter gaiters that are intended to keep dirt/rocks out of your shoes are sometimes referred to as “summer gaiters”. The taller gaiters that are intended to keep snow/moisture out are often referred to as “winter gaiters”.
Picking the perfect pair
Once you’ve selected the most appropriate height for your activity, you want to choose correct size. Gaiters are usually sized similar to shoes. You want to pick the size that gives you the tightest seal. This is key.
Another important feature to consider is the fabric. Do you want something water-resistant or would you prefer something breathable? Are you looking for something durable or something lightweight?
Pro-tip: When you’re picking out your next pair of hiking gaiters, try them on with the shoes you plan to use them with (i.e., your hiking boots). Bulkier boots might require a bigger size.
How to actually wear hiking gaiters
- Make sure the opening is facing frontward and the buckles are facing outwards.
- Step into the foot strap and wrap the sides of the gaiter forward.
- If your gaiters have a lace hook, attach the hook to your laces.
- Depending on the gaiters, secure the front by using the velcro or the hooks/loops.
- Adjust the top closure so that it fits snug but not tight.
- Doublecheck that you are getting a tight seal around the heel and adjust the foot strap if necessary.
- Check in after 10 minutes and make any tweaks.
- Too tight? Uncomfortable.
- Too loose? Won’t stop debris.
Pro-tip: Try them on before you leave — it is always easier to troubleshoot at home.
A note on accessibility
Gaiters are a great example of how simple gear tweaks can make the outdoors feel more manageable.
For hikers with sensory sensitivities, gaiters can really reduce irritation coming from things like wet socks and pebbles in your shoes. If unpredictable trail conditions make you nervous, gaiters can add an extra layer of consistency.
The outdoors are for everyone.
My final thoughts
Like I said at the beginning, I am proud Team Gaiter. And when I see you out there rocking those dweeby gaiters too, I am definitely judging you — I am thinking now there is an adventurer.
- If you can’t stand the feeling of wet pant cuffs, or you’re just sick of stopping to dump your shoes, then a pair of hiking gaiters could be your new favorite gear.
- If these things don’t bother you, then you can totally skip the hiking gaiters. (I’ll still think of you as an adventurer too.)
