We researched 25 of the best gaiters on the market and narrowed it down to nine top choices. Featuring options from Kahtoola, Outdoor Research, Rab, REI, Salomon, and Dirty Girl, we’ve got you covered from the ground up. Whether you’re moving quickly on a thru hike or trudging through deep snow, these gaiters will help block out the dust, debris, and moisture on almost any adventure.
Tested on Alaska’s rugged trails, swamps, scree, and tundra, we carefully evaluated each option to find the best choice for your next adventure. From off-trail trekking through boulder fields to squelching through a swamp, our real-world testing brings you the most comprehensive analysis possible.
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Hiking Gaiters
This is our first roundup of hiking gaiters! Get a quick overview of the best models below, and keep scrolling for detailed reviews and firsthand insights from the field.
Best Gaiter Overall: Rab Latok GORE-TEX Gaiter ($95)
Best Mid-Height Gaiter: Kahtoola RENAgaiter Mid ($64)
Best Gaiter for Winter: Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters ($99)
Best Lightweight Gaiter: Kahtoola INSTAgaiter Mid ($54)
Best Budget Gaiters: Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High Gaiters ($49)
Best Gaiter for Thru-hiking: Dirty Girl Gaiters ($23)
Most Secure and Comfortable Calf Cinch: Rab Trek Gaiter ($60)
Best Running Specific Gaiter: REI Swiftland Running Gaiters ($30)
Simplest Attachment System: Salomon Trail Gaiters Low ($40)
What’s new
CleverHiker;s tested shoes and boots galore, but this is our first guide focusing solely on gaiters. Here are the winners:
- The Rab Latok GORE-TEX Gaiter earns our Editor’s Pick award and the #1 position for its comfortable and easy-to-use design.
- A close second is the Kahtoola RENAgaiter Mid, the best gaiter if you don’t need quite as much coverage as the Latok.
- The Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High Gaiters are an affordable option with great coverage and an easy-to-adjust instep buckle.
- The Dirty Girl Gaiters are another value option with exciting colorways for every personality.
Hiking Gaiter Overall Testing Scores
Rab Latok GORE-TEX Gaiter
Best Gaiter Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $95
Material: GORE-TEX
Height: Full
Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Easy to adjust underfoot loop
- Comfortable knee cinch
- Trim design without bulk
Cons
- Large plastic lace hook can be hard to slip under laces
- Expensive
The Rab Latok GORE-TEX earns the top spot in our lineup for its rugged protection, low weight, and ease of use. Its GORE-TEX construction is lightweight yet still waterproof, making it a favorite for wet conditions. Tested in Alaska’s cold and damp late fall and early winter, the Latok kept us dry and protected no matter the elements.
The Latok is secured with a fairly standard combination of velcro in the front and a bungee cinch at the top. However, we found that the cinch system was a standout design because it was comfortable even while tightened down firmly around the calf. It can also be tightened or loosened with one hand, making adjustments quick and easy.
We also found that the underfoot strap was simple yet highly durable. A flexible rubber-coated underfoot strap connected to the gaiter’s body via sturdy velcro, making adjustments quick and easy when switching between different footwear. The only issue was with the lace hooks. They are made of bulky plastic, which makes them harder to secure to laces or a dedicated gaiter loop compared to smaller metal hooks used in other models.
While some waterproof gaiters are bulky with extra material, the Latok is noticeably slim. This keeps their profile low and their weight minimal, ideal for quick movement in the mountains. The Latok offers excellent weather resistance and protection, keeping out all moisture even when bushwhacking through rain-soaked brush and walking in wet snow. If you’re searching for a lightweight, waterproof, and highly capable gaiter for your next alpine trip, look no further than the Rab Latok GORE-TEX.
Kahtoola RENAgaiter Mid
Best Mid-Height Gaiter
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $64
Material: Nylon
Height: Mid
Waterproof: No
Pros
- Comfortable directly on the skin
- Durable zipper closure
- Lightweight
- Usable on both running shoes and boots
- Breathable
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Stiff underfoot strap
The Kahtoola RENAgaiter Mid is our top choice for a lightweight mid-height gaiter. We frequently reached for these for lightweight missions where we wanted to prioritize breathability and comfort. A top choice for fast and light hikers or trail runners, the RENAgaiter blends comfort with protection, perfect for rocky or sandy trails.
With its stretch-woven nylon, the RENAgaiter is one of the most comfortable gaiters in our lineup. We wore these directly on the skin while running and experienced no chafing or discomfort. This stretchy material moves with each step, preventing any pulling or sagging during hiking. These gaiters are unique because they are one of the only models in our lineup to use a zipper closure system. Featuring a durable YKK zipper, they avoid snow and mud clogging often caused by velcro and allow for easy on and off.
For a lightweight gaiter, the RENAgaiter features one of the sturdiest instep straps in our lineup. It comes with a 1000-mile warranty and is built to be highly durable for years of use. While durability is a key feature, we found the instep strap to be stiff and somewhat uncomfortable. When used with more minimal running shoes, we could feel it beneath our feet and hear it click against rocks and hard surfaces.
While lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, the RENAgaiter lacks the protection needed to keep your legs dry in wet conditions. Enough to shed light precipitation or walking through damp brush, but they eventually wet out. These are not our top picks for hikes in heavy weather, but they provide enough protection for most outings. They kept out all rocks and debris, keeping our feet comfortable and shoes clear.
Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters
Best Gaiter for Winter
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $99
Material: GORE-TEX
Height: Full
Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Strong weather resistance
- Very durable
- Warm for cold-weather adventures
Cons
- Heavy
- Bulky
- Runs large
The Outdoor Research Crocodile is an extremely durable gaiter designed for the toughest conditions. Made specifically for mountaineering, the Crocodile offers some of the best weather resistance of any gaiter we tested. This thick and burly gaiter offers excellent protection, but more than is needed for casual outings.
The GORE-TEX upper is extremely weatherproof, and kept our legs dry no matter how wet the conditions. During a day hiking through mud and snow in early winter in Alaska, they kept us completely dry—even when post-holing in the alpine or bushwhacking through snow-covered brush.
The bottom of the gaiter is made with Cordura, a highly abrasion-resistant material, which provides excellent durability. We were impressed with how well these gaiters stood up to heavy use, and we know they will last for years of adventures. The underfoot strap and knee buckle are easy to adjust; however, these gaiters run large, so we recommend sizing down for the best fit.
There’s no denying that the Crocodile is a seriously heavy-duty gaiter. Its excellent weather resistance comes with the trade-off of being bulky and heavy. This limits their versatility and makes them best suited for use with boots. While hiking uphill and working hard through postholing, we noticed that they are very warm.
Best suited for winter temperatures, these are not our first choice for summer adventures. But if you’re someone looking for one of the most durable gaiters on the market for big winter excursions, the Crocodile is the perfect choice.
Kahtoola INSTAgaiter Mid
Best Lightweight Gaiter
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $54
Material: Nylon
Height: Mid
Waterproof: No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Easy-to-use zipper closure
- Comfortable directly on skin
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Sags down during use
- Large volume of loose material around shoes
The lightest and most breathable option from Kahtoola, the INSTAgaiter is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to move fast and light while protecting their feet. With its combination of breathability and durable protection, the INSTAgaiter shows that lightweight doesn’t mean fragile. A long-time favorite among trail runners, the INSTAgaiter is the go-to choice for moving swiftly through rugged terrain.
Weighing just 2.4 ounces for a size medium, the INSTAgaiter is feather light. We frequently reach for these for trail runs in the rugged, scree-filled Chugach Range of Alaska, and are impressed by how minimal they feel on our feet. They still do a great job of protecting feet and keeping out rocks, twigs, and debris.
However, these are not the gaiters to choose for wading through swamps or postholing through deep snow. Although treated with a PFAS-free DWR coating, this was only effective against light moisture. They allowed water in when fully submerged, making them less suitable for wetter conditions.
The stretch-woven nylon construction feels soft and comfortable, even when worn directly on the skin. The side zipper closure allows for quick on and off, and the YKK zipper is durable and resistant to grit and dust. Built with Kahtoola’s ultra-durable DuraLink instep strap, the INSTAgaiter is highly durable. With a 1000-mile warranty, you won’t wear through these straps anytime soon.
However, they feel stiff and bulky underfoot, especially with more minimalist running shoes. thru hikers, trail runners, and ultralight enthusiasts will appreciate the INSTAgaiter for offering lightweight protection in various conditions.
Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High Gaiters
Best Budget Gaiters
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $49
Material: Nylon
Height: Full
Waterproof: No
Pros
- Good value
- Easy to adjust instep buckle
- Durable
Cons
- Sag with use
- Not as weather-resistant
Providing full coverage at a fraction of the cost of other gaiters, the Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High offers excellent performance at an affordable price. Tested on snowy and muddy hikes in Alaska’s Chugach Range, we were impressed with their durability and ease of use, making them a great choice for anyone seeking a well-made piece of equipment at a reasonable price.
When putting on the Rocky Mountain High, it’s immediately clear that they are highly adjustable. They are the only gaiters in our lineup to feature a buckle on both the instep strap and at the knee. While most other gaiters adjust the instep strap inside the gaiter, the Rocky Mountain High does so with a buckle on the outside, making on-the-go adjustments quick and easy. They also have elastic around the bottom edge that keeps them securely around your boot and prevents debris from getting in.
Although not fully waterproof, the Rocky Mountain High’s 420 denier nylon is coated with polyurethane for extra protection against the elements. While we never soaked through these completely, it was clear they held more moisture than other waterproof models. This additional moisture caused them to sag after being worn in wet conditions for long periods.
Made with a single layer of material, these might not be as sturdy as other models, but they were still durable enough that we never wore through them or noticed any weaknesses. If you’re looking for full-coverage gaiters without the high price of a more expensive model, check out the Rocky Mountain High.
Dirty Girl Gaiters
Best Gaiter for Thru-hiking
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $23
Material: Spandex
Height: Low
Waterproof: No
Pros
- Ultralight
- Breathable
- Very comfortable
- Affordable
- Comes in fun colors and patterns
Cons
- Not weather-resistant
- Lets in dust
- Requires gluing Velcro to the heels of shoes
With a cult following among the thru hiking community, the Dirty Girl Gaiters are a longstanding favorite for those spending days on the trail. Ultralight and providing just enough protection to keep annoying rocks and twigs out of the shoes, they are ideal for those wanting to simplify their gaiter system while still using a proven and popular piece of gear.
At the lowest price of any gaiter in our lineup, the Dirty Girls are affordable and straightforward, perfect for the budget-conscious hiker. Made from a spandex material, they are stretchy and extremely comfortable to wear. These are the most comfortable gaiters on the market, and we wore them for hours at a time, barely noticing they were there.
The material feels soft on the skin and stretches with each step. These are great for wearing with shorts because of their breathability, light weight, and comfort. A simple yet effective metal lace hook keeps them securely in place at the front, and a velcro tab secures the heel. However, these require attaching velcro to the heels of your shoes (stick-on velcro included) to keep them securely in place.
While highly breathable, these gaiters are not very weather-resistant. They’re suitable for mist or light dew, but you can’t rely on them to keep you dry in heavy rain. They quickly allow more than a small amount of moisture to get through.
They also keep all large debris out of the shoes, but on especially dusty trails, we noticed our ankles getting dirty from dust and fine grit that seeped through the material. Available in 30 different fun colors and patterns (can you say: bacon print??), the Dirty Girls are a fun, creative, and simple way to keep your feet protected during long days on the trail.
Rab Trek Gaiter
Most Secure and Comfortable Calf Cinch
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $60
Material: Nylon
Height: Full
Waterproof: No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable cinch
- Durable instep strap
- Affordable
- Comes in fun colors and patterns
Cons
- Bulky
- Not waterproof
- Sags with use
The Rab Trek gaiters are simple and no-nonsense, making them ideal for anyone seeking reliable performance without the extras of a more expensive model. Featuring a comfortable, easy-to-use closure system, they can be adjusted easily, even with one hand or while wearing gloves. Although not fully waterproof, they offer enough durability for day trips and shorter hikes where a more heavy-duty option isn’t needed.
With a flexible, rubber-coated instep strap, the Treks feature a simple yet durable and effective design. The Velcro front closure is secure, and the knee cinch has a standout design. It’s one of the more comfortable systems, even when tightened around the calf. An elastic band around the ankle tries to keep these gaiters close-fitting, but we found they remain loose and baggy with excess material. Despite tightening the cinch at the top, they still felt floppy and began to sag during hiking.
Although not fully waterproof, they offer enough weather resistance to keep our legs and feet dry during shorter snowy hikes. After a long, snowy hike, we could see the material had absorbed some water, but it still prevented us from getting soaked like we would have without them. Simple and straightforward, the Rab Trek provides sufficient protection for shorter trips or less extreme conditions.
REI Swiftland Running Gaiters
Best Running Specific Gaiter
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $30
Material: Polyester, spandex
Height: Low
Waterproof: No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Replaceable instep strap
- Anti-slip silicone grip on the inside of the top cuffs to prevent slouch
Cons
- Low durability
- Not weather-resistant
The REI Swiftland Running Gaiters are designed specifically for trail running. They are lightweight and breathable, making it easy to move quickly on the trail and worry less about rocks entering your shoes. Made to be used with trail runners, they have enough elasticity in the material to be used with low-volume boots. While lightweight, they fall significantly short in durability, so we don’t trust them for longer trips.
Secured with a lace hook and a velcro heel, the attachment system is simple for these basic gaiters. While simple in design, they do have the unique feature of incorporating silicone around the circumference of the ankle to act as an anti-slip grip to keep them from sagging down. While effective, we found that they could sometimes tug uncomfortably on leg hair.
The main drawback of these gaiters is their limited durability, especially in the instep strap. Made with a 2mm cord, they wore through very quickly, showing thinning and wear after only a few uses on sharp rocks. They do come with a replacement cord; however, we would prefer a slightly more durable design for better long-term performance.
If you’re looking for a lightweight gaiter for occasional use on nontechnical terrain, the Swiftland is an affordable option. We hesitate to take these on longer trips because they tend to fail, but they are suitable for local trail runs and nearby adventures.
Salomon Trail Gaiters Low
Simplest Attachment System
CleverHiker Rating: 3.8/5.0
Price: $40
Material: Elastic jersey
Height: Low
Waterproof: No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Breathable
Cons
- Lets in rocks
- Instep strap slips off in steep terrain
- Limited durability
The Salomon Trail Gaiter has one of the simplest designs among all the gaiters we tested. Just loop the instep strap under the heel, secure the velcro in the front, and hit the trail. However, this simplicity involves some serious trade-offs in durability and protection. Made for trail runners, they are suitable for light trails but are not the best choice for deep scree or wet conditions.
While the Velcro closure is secure, these gaiters run large. We recommend sizing down for a more secure fit. We tested them on alpine scrambles in the Chugach Range’s notoriously crumbly rock and were disappointed to find they let in a large amount of rocks.
They have large gaps at the top and bottom that allow a lot of scree to get in. While running down a 1500-foot scree slope, the instep strap slipped up and came off repeatedly. After only a few uses, they showed serious signs of wear with cuts and abrasions from sharp rocks.
The Trail Gaiter is ideal for well-trodden trails with minimal exposure to deep scree or wet brush. While they don’t offer enough protection for long days, they are lightweight and breathable for quick runs on your local trails.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Material | Height | Waterproof | Attachment Method | Comfort | Breathability | Weather Resistance | Durability | Ease of Use | 0 |
Rab Latok GORE-TEX Gaiter View at Amazon 
|
$95 | GORE-TEX | Full | Yes | Hook-and-loop, lace hook, knee cinch | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 1 |
Kahtoola RENAgaiter Mid View at REI View at Amazon
|
$64 | Nylon | Mid | No | Zipper, lace hook | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 2 |
Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters View at REI View at Amazon |
$99 | GORE-TEX | Full | Yes | Lace hook, hook-and-loop, ankle & knee buckle | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 3 |
Kahtoola INSTAgaiter Mid View at REI View at Amazon |
$54 | Nylon | Mid | No | Zipper, lace hook | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4 |
Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High Gaiters View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$49 | Nylon | Full | No | Lace hook, hook-and-loop, ankle & knee buckle | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 5 |
Dirty Girl Gaiters View at Dirty Girl Gaiters
|
$23 | Spandex | Low | No | Velcro heel, lace hook | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 4.6 | 6 |
Rab Trek Gaiter View at Backcountry |
$60 | Nylon | Full | No | Hook-and-loop, lace hook, knee cinch | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 7 |
REI Swiftland Running Gaiters View at REI |
$30 | Polyester, spandex | Low | No | Lace hook, velcro heel | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.2 | 3.9 | 4.5 | 8 |
Salomon Trail Gaiters Low View at Amazon |
$40 | Elastic jersey | Low | No | Hook and loop | 4.1 | 4.2 | 3.8 | 3.7 | 4.4 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
Comfort
Comfort is simply determined by how the gaiters feel on the legs. Are they stiff and rough or soft and supple? How well do they fit without limiting movement, and how do they feel during use?
We tested comfort by wearing each gaiter with pants underneath or directly on the skin. We then hiked in them to assess how they felt during movement.
Breathability
Breathability refers to a material’s ability to release heat and wick moisture during use. We evaluated breathability by hiking in the gaiters at both low and high exertion levels, looking for any sweat buildup or signs of overheating.
By hiking at least five miles continuously with each gaiter at different paces, we gained a clearer understanding of their airflow performance.
Weather Resistance
Weather Resistance refers to the ability of the gaiters to block out debris and shield the wearer from the elements. We tested each gaiter in different weather conditions for at least an hour.
We deliberately wore them through ankle-deep water to observe any water or debris that entered and to see how much our socks or pants got wet.
Durability
Durability measures how well the gaiters withstand repeated use over time. We tested each pair over a month, wearing them multiple times to evaluate their durability.
We used them on trails, alpine tundra, and sharp rocks to see how different terrain affected their performance.
Ease of Use
Ease of use measures how quickly and easily a user can put on, adjust, and remove the gaiters in real-world conditions.
We tested this by putting on, adjusting, and removing the gaiters in the field, using one hand, both hands, and while wearing gloves to see how simple they are to handle.
Why Trust CleverHiker
Testing was led by Gear Analyst Miles Knotek, our Alaska-based analyst. Covering over 2,000 miles of trail each year, Miles is an experienced backcountry explorer, whether on foot, skis, snowshoes, or ice skates. Living in Alaska, he regularly faces some of the toughest conditions and weather to test gear in.
Whether it’s postholing for miles in the alpine or slogging through swamps and brush, he deeply understands how the right gear can influence a tough adventure. His analytical mindset and thorough testing lead to well-researched reviews based on real-world practicality.
Analysis & Results
We review lanterns based on key aspects such as value, illumination quality, chargeability, battery life, portability, features, and ease of use. Continue reading to see how our recommendations highlight these categories.
VALUE
At CleverHiker, we believe value goes beyond just choosing the cheapest product. To us, a high-value item offers a good balance of performance and affordability. While the lowest-priced option might suit those on a tight budget, it’s disappointing if it doesn’t last or perform as well as a slightly more expensive alternative. Sometimes, spending a little more can lead to getting a better, longer-lasting product.
The Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High Gaiters are an excellent blend of performance and affordable price. For under $50, they provide full coverage, excellent durability, and sufficient weather resistance for most outings. They are easy to use with a reliable buckle system, and they kept us dry in mud, snow, and rain. Best paired with boots, these are ideal for alpine adventures in cooler temperatures or snowy conditions.
For an ultralight and streamlined option, the Dirty Girl Gaiters are the undisputed queens of the trail. Long loved by thru hikers, these gaiters’ simple spandex construction is soft and comfortable against the skin and keeps out all but the finest dust while on the trail. Under $25, and coming in over 30 different fun colors and patterns, it’s hard to go wrong with the Dirty Girls.
Comfort
When spending day after day on the trail, the last thing you want is to worry about your gaiters chafing your legs. We prefer gaiters that are soft on the skin, stretchy, mobile with each step, and secure around the legs without feeling like there’s a tourniquet around our calves. After hours of hiking in each gaiter, we can confidently say that a few stand out as the best.
The Kahtoola RENAgaiter Mids are supremely comfortable. The stretch woven nylon is highly elastic and feels soft on the skin. The material stretches and moves with each step, preventing any restrictive feeling. The elasticized top opening drawcord can be tightened snugly without restricting circulation. We loved these for pairing with trail runners and shorts, as they are lightweight and comfortable directly on the skin.
The Rab Latok is a top choice for the most comfortable full-coverage gaiter. Lightweight and trim, they eliminate any bagginess that often accompanies full coverage gaiters. It also features one of the most comfortable calf cinches among full-size gaiters. Whether worn with pants or bare legs underneath, it remains comfortable, even when cinched down snugly.
Forgoing all cinches and buckles, the Dirty Girl Gaiters instead use a soft and comfortable spandex material. These are our top choice for pairing with shorts because they are soft and stretch to fit different leg sizes. The lightest gaiter in our lineup, they are soft and feather-light, perfect for putting on in the morning and forgetting that they are there.
Breathability
For such a small item, some gaiters can be puzzlingly complex. With numerous straps, buckles, and velcro, we prefer simple gaiters that can be quickly adjusted while on the move, yet still offer excellent coverage. Both the Rab Latok and Trek fit this description. They feature a top cinch that can be loosened or tightened easily with one hand, even while wearing gloves. Paired with their velcro-adjusted instep strap, these are simple yet effective features.
The Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High gaiters are the only ones in our lineup with two buckles: one at the knee and one for the instep strap. The instep strap buckles greatly improve ease of use. While all other gaiters require removing the gaiter to adjust the instep strap, this buckle allows you to loosen or tighten while still wearing them. Perfect for quick adjustments on the go.
For gaiters that eschew straps, buckles, and toggles altogether, the Dirty Girl Gaiters and the Salomon Trail Gaiters are two of the simplest designs out there. Simply slip on the Dirt Girls before putting on your shoes, attach the lace hook and the velcro heel, and you’re ready to hit the trail.
These gaiters feature adhesive Velcro to add attachment points to your shoes. The Salomon trail gaiters have a straightforward instep strap and Velcro closure in the front. With just two quick movements, the Trail Gaiters are on your feet and ready to run. For easy, streamlined use, either of these options works well.
Weather Resistance
While named after a warm-weather-loving reptile, the Outdoor Research Crocodile is our top choice for cold and snowy adventures. It features a three-layer GORE-TEX construction that is highly waterproof and a Cordura lower that enhances both durability and weather resistance. Designed for mountaineering, this is our top pick for snowy peaks and extended trips in cold conditions, where post-holing is inevitable.
However, this excellent weather resistance and protection come with added weight. They are sturdy and warm, making them too warm for most conditions outside of winter. Best paired with boots, these durable gaiters are sure to keep you dry in some of the harshest conditions.
The Rab Latok finds a balance between being lightweight and being very protective. Also built with Gore-Tex, it is a favorite for treks through swamps and snow because it keeps moisture out. Slightly lighter and thinner than the Crocodile, it offers better three-season versatility and fits more easily between boots and trail shoes.
For a lower-profile gaiter that works well with trail runners, the Kahtoola RENAgaiter Mid provides great protection from rocks and debris. It features a slightly thicker fabric, offering some cushion from impacts by scree and loose rocks when navigating unstable terrain. While they won’t keep you dry if you step into a creek or swamp, they do provide significant protection from rocks and debris trying to enter your shoes.
Durability
Like any piece of gear, we expect our gaiters to withstand repeated and heavy use. We believe in the philosophy of “tools not jewels” and aren’t afraid to get our gear muddy and scratched. Gaiters, in particular, need to be durable. Since they come into frequent contact with the ground, are kicked, or scraped by crampons or traction devices, they must be able to endure rough treatment.
For use with crampons, snowshoes, or traction devices where snagging or heavy contact is common, we reach for the Outdoor Research Crocodile. The only gaiter in our lineup with Cordura-reinforced lowers, it offers the best durability and is one we know won’t let us down when we need it most. Following closely behind is the Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High, another excellent choice. While lighter than the crocodile, its burly straps and buckles give the attachment points extra reassurance for heavy use.
For lighter gaiters, both the Kahtoola RENAgaiter and INSTAgaiter surprised us with their durability. The instep strap is especially durable. It is made with Kahtoola’s DuraLink system, which is easily replaceable and covered by a 1,000-mile warranty. At the point where the strap connects to the gaiter, the Aegeis rock guard protects the connection, a common weak spot in lightweight gaiters. This system impressed us with its resilience and toughness for a lightweight design. Even after descending two-thousand-foot scree slopes, they showed no signs of wear.
Ease of Use
For such a small item, some gaiters can be puzzlingly complex. With numerous straps, buckles, and velcro, we prefer simple gaiters that can be quickly adjusted while on the move, yet still offer excellent coverage. Both the Rab Latok and Trek fit this description. They feature a top cinch that can be loosened or tightened easily with one hand, even while wearing gloves. Paired with their velcro-adjusted instep strap, these are simple yet effective features.
The Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain High gaiters are the only ones in our lineup with two buckles: one at the knee and one for the instep strap. The instep strap buckles greatly improve ease of use. While all other gaiters require removing the gaiter to adjust the instep strap, this buckle allows you to loosen or tighten while still wearing them. Perfect for quick adjustments on the go.
For gaiters that eschew straps, buckles, and toggles altogether, the Dirty Girl Gaiters and the Salomon Trail Gaiters are two of the simplest designs out there. Simply slip on the Dirt Girls before putting on your shoes, attach the lace hook and the velcro heel, and you’re ready to hit the trail. These gaiters feature adhesive Velcro to add attachment points to your shoes.
The Salomon trail gaiters have a straightforward instep strap and Velcro closure in the front. With just two quick movements, the Trail Gaiters are on your feet and ready to run. For easy, streamlined use, either of these options works well.
How to Choose Hiking Gaiters
When you’re trudging through wet brush, kicking up scree, or post-holing through snow, a good pair of gaiters can make the difference between staying dry and comfortable or ending your day with soaked socks and rocks in your shoes. However, not all gaiters are the same, and choosing the right pair begins with understanding how you will use them and which factors are most important to you.
What footwear will I be using these with?
The first step in choosing a gaiter is matching it to your footwear. Gaiters vary widely in their attachment methods, height, and closure systems, some of which are better suited for different types of footwear.
If you’re trail running or fastpacking, choose low gaiters made from lightweight, breathable fabric. These ankle-high designs (like the REI Swiftland or Dirty Girl Gaiters) focus on keeping out pebbles, grit, and light debris without adding bulk or heat. They’re designed to pair with trail runners and lightweight hiking shoes, often featuring hook-and-loop (Velcro) attachments that don’t need an underfoot strap.
For day hiking or backpacking, a mid-height gaiter (like the Kahtoola RENAgaiter or INSTAgaiter) provides more balanced protection. These usually reach the lower leg, blocking out debris and mud. They work best with hiking shoes or mid-cut boots. Look for models with a secure lace hook, an adjustable strap around the instep, and a snug but elastic closure. These features help prevent slipping down the calf and ensure a good seal.
If you’re planning on mountaineering, snowshoeing, or winter hiking with heavy-duty boots, choose a full-height gaiter. These full-height models, like the Outdoor Research Crocodile or Rab Latok, are made from sturdy waterproof-breathable fabrics such as Gore-Tex and designed to fit over larger boots. The taller height provides protection from snow and ice, while heavy-duty straps and reinforced insteps resist abrasion from crampons and rough terrain.
However, these gaiters often do not fit well over running shoes or minimal footwear. Although they offer the best weather resistance, they can be warm and bulky for anything other than boots.
What kind of conditions do I plan to use these in?
For hot, dry trails, focus on breathability and light weight. Choose lightweight materials that wick moisture and help shed trail dust. In warm weather, waterproofing can trap heat, so focus on breathability rather than full protection.
For muddy or rainy trails, waterproof gaiters are essential. Look for models made with Gore-Tex or other breathable membranes that prevent socks and shoes from soaking through. While mid-height gaiters offer good protection from rocks and debris from getting in your shoes, they often don’t provide full waterproofing. These gaiters are enough for light moisture and are suitable for moving quickly through wet areas, rather than for extended trips.
For snow and alpine use, durability and height are priorities. You’ll want a tall cuff to keep snow out when breaking trail, plus abrasion-resistant panels around the ankles where crampons or snowshoes might rub. Reinforced insteps and replaceable underfoot straps are also worth considering. Snagging by crampons, traction devices, or snowshoes can quickly tear apart gaiters.
If you’re bushwhacking or exploring off-trail, select gaiters that prioritize durability and debris protection. Heavy-duty fabrics like high-denier nylon or Cordura resist tears from branches and rocks, and a snug fit around your boot keeps dirt and gravel from sneaking in when venturing off trail.
What feature is most important to me?
Different hikers value different things: comfort, breathability, weather resistance and protection, durability, or ease of use. Knowing your top priority helps you focus on what actually improves your experience on the trail.
If you value comfort and breathability, choose lightweight gaiters made from stretch-woven fabric. They move naturally with your stride and won’t trap sweat. Mid- to low-height gaiters are ideal for summer temperatures or thru-hikers.
If waterproofing tops your list, invest in a model with waterproof construction and full ankle-to-calf coverage. These gaiters might be heavier and warmer, but they will keep your feet dry during snowfield crossings and stream crossings.
If you prioritize durability, choose gaiters with reinforced insteps, sturdy zippers, and abrasion-resistant lower parts. They might weigh a bit more, but they will last for years of tough use.
If you’re a serious ultralight enthusiast, you might prefer less protection in exchange for a minimal gaiter that weighs as little as possible and is easy to put on. Just slip it on and hit the trail.
The best gaiter isn’t the most expensive or feature-rich; it’s the one that meets your needs and goals. Although often overlooked, gaiters are a small but impactful piece of gear that greatly affects your outdoor experience. By carefully assessing your goals and intended uses, you’ll be able to find the right equipment suited to your objectives.
Conclusion
While gaiters might not be top of mind when you think of hiking gear, they are an often-overlooked item that can have a significant impact on your hiking experience. By keeping your feet and legs dry and protected from rocks and brush, you can spend less time managing your feet and more time focused on enjoying the trail.
