This Gaiters for snow Guide will comprehensively cover leg gaiters for snow, gaiters for snow boots, gaiters for snow hiking, and more.
Hiking in snow is fun and memorable, however, there is nothing more annoying than snow entering and melting inside your boots. You can, however, prevent this by using gaiters which prevent snow and dirt from entering your boots.
Gaiters also help in keeping your feet warm when the temperatures are extremely cold ensuring that you have a comfortable winter trip.
Gaiters are worn on top of the boots and slightly above the lower part of your pant legs. They feature a drawcord at the top which attaches them firmly to the pants ensuring that no dirt or snow gets in between.
Gaiters come with different designs and are made of different materials therefore, choosing the best gaiter which suits your preferred style of hiking can be challenging.
If you are looking for the best gaiters for your next snow adventure, we are here to help.
We have highlighted for you some of the best snow gaiters made for all sorts of outdoor activities.
Best Gaiters for Snow
1) Outdoor Research Verglas
This Outdoor Research is a robust gaiter ideal for snow climbing and tough expeditions on snow-covered slopes. It is made of a breathable and waterproof 3-layer Gore-Tex fabric. Though lightweight, this gaiter is tougher than regular ballistic nylon and it stands up to greater punishment without tearing off no matter what it is subjected to. It securely fits your booths through a front strap, Hypalon strap, and a special lace hook that keeps laces secure and dry while walking on the snow. The hook and loop front entries allow you to put them on with ease. This is the perfect gaiter for cold weather snowshoeing. Features
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2) Black diamond GTX
This Black Diamond Leggings FrontPoint unisex gear can be used by everyone. The lightweight nature of this gaiter makes it ideal for ice climbing and also other demanding activities on the snow-covered slopes. It is made of a breathable and waterproof 3-layer Gore-Tex fabric as well as a welded 600 denier double layer fabric abrasion guard. This strong fabric prevents abrasions and tears. To guarantee a great fit, this gaiter has a neoprene-coated instep strap with a lace hook that can be attached to the boot’s laces from the underside. The hook and loop front entries help you put them on easily. This gaiter also features a side release top-closure which can be used easily no matter the conditions. In addition, it has reflective panels next to the buckle which helps you find them easily in low light conditions. Features
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3) Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters
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4) Outdoor Research Overdrive Wrap
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This Outdoor Research Overdrive Wrap gaiter is a simple, lightweight and reliable gaiter that is simple to slide on and off. Once attached, these gaiters are secure enough to not fall off and because of the high-quality fit, they are very good at debris protection. These gaiters are perfect for low and mid-cut shoes. Features
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5) Unigear Leg Waterproof Gaiters
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Unigear gaiters are made of high-quality waterproof polyester which keeps your pants dry and your legs warm and dry. It features and an adjustable strap with a buckle that can be adjusted to fit your legs and prevent your gaiters from falling off. These gaiters are a front entry with a sturdy Velcro to hold them shut. The Velcro is 5cm wide but can be adjusted to fit your legs and boot perfectly. You can fold them up easily and store them in the backpack where they occupy minimal space. These gaiters will keep you warm and dry all along and save you from wet socks, painful scratches and cuts, and insect bites. Features
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6) Pike Trail Leg Gaiters
The Pike Trail Leg Gaiters as one of the best gaiters for snow are made of durable polyester which prevents water, snow, dirt, and debris from entering and dirtying your clothes. They feature a metal buckle that gives you many years of use. These gaiters are designed to be used by everyone. They have an adjustable drawstring that allows a tight fit, while the length can be adjusted using the buckle. This means that it is easy to get the perfect fit, no matter your height. These gaiters are lightweight and soft, but very durable. They come with a matching carry bag to keep your backpack organized when not in use. The light, polyester fabrics mean that these gaiters can also be used even in warmer months. Features
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Factors to Consider when Choosing Gaiters for Snow
Material
High-quality gaiters should be made of materials that are not only waterproof but also breathable. They should be able to strike the ideal balance between comfort and protection.
Some of the common materials used are sturdy nylon and Gore-Tex. Gaiters are made using waterproof/ breathable fabrics because they provide the best durability and weather protection.
The lower part of the gaiters should be made using the toughest material with a tightly woven or several layered abrasion-resistant fabrics used. The reason for this is that the lower part of any boot receives the most wear and tear in its lifetime.
Reinforcement
The lower part of a gaiter is often reinforced with a fabric such as Cordula or Kelvar for added protection against abrasion. It is quite common for a hiker to accidentally get higher crampons hooked on the gaiter and tear them up. So, reinforcement is done at the bottom part to avoid this.
Weight
The best gaiters should be as lightweight as any other hiking gear. A lightweight gaiter allows you to hike as fast as possible enabling you to reach your destination with ease.
Additional weight on your legs slows you down, causes fatigue, and can decrease your mobility. Your gaiter should be heavy enough to stand up to the elements, however, it should be light enough to be obstructive during use. The best gaiter should weigh between two and three ounces.
Size and height
Gaiters come in different heights and sizes. Short gaiters are ideal for trail running while high gaiters can be used in all conditions. Long knee-sized gaiters are suitable for trudging through snow-covered surfaces.
Intermediate sizes are ideal for those who don’t have a clue about what they are likely to encounter in the wild.
Features
Most gaiters fasten to your boots securely through an instep strap and lace hooks. The fasteners must be tough enough to withstand rough use. Look for gaiters with straps made from tough, abrasion-resistant material such as Cordula nylon.
In addition, it is also important to look at the functionality of the gaiters. How easy are they to put on? Some gaiters are equipped with Velcro front entries which allow you to quickly attach them around the pants.
Also, look at how the gaiters fit around your lower leg. Some feature zippers which provide a tight seal against elements.
Gaiters for Snow FAQs
- Do gaiters offer protection against large animals such as snakes?
Unless it has been specified by the manufacturer, never assume that all gaiters offer protection against large animals. Some gaiters have a scented fabric formulated to work against small insects such as mosquitos however that doesn’t mean that it will work against all pests that you will encounter.
- What materials should my gaiters be made of?
Over the years, several synthetics have cropped up that provide better protection than before. However, anything new and improved comes with a higher price tag. If you are searching for something more on the breathable side, a combination of nylon and polyester improves the comfort and wearability of gaiters.
- Why do I need gaiters?
Gaiters are meant to cover the place where your boots, socks, and legs meet, to lock out ant debris and water. High gaiters are ideal for snow hiking as they normally reach up to your knees and are water-resistant.
Gaiters for Snow Advantages
Protection
Gaiters prevent your feet from getting wet when walking on the snow and they also prevent your trousers from getting caked up with snow or mud. They also prevent your legs from getting scratched. Gaiters help protect bootlaces from freezing and over trousers from freezing to your boots.
Lightweight
It is better to wear lighter boots with gaiter protection rather than wearing heavy walking boots.
Snakeproof
Heavy canvas gaiters may even offer extra protection against snakes or ants bites when walking through long grass.
Affordability
Gaiters are relatively inexpensive while they offer a number of benefits.
Easy to clean
Gaiters are easier to dry out on a multi-day trip than wet pants or wet boots.
Gaiters for Snow Disadvantages
- Putting on gaiters increases the heat on your feet. Depending on the person, this could result in the formation of blisters as your feet sweat more.
- Gaiters can be annoying to put on and take off, especially compared to a boot with an integrated gaiter. Some models need to be put on before footwear which means that you have to remove your shoes to take them off.
Conclusion
Considering how gaiters for snow offer a number of benefits are relatively cheap, investing in a pair is really smart. When it comes to choosing gaiters for snowing, different stores offer a variety of designs. It is our hope that this review helps you find the ideal gaiters for your needs.
See Also
- 7 Best Gaiters for Snakes / Snakeproof Gaiters
- Best Hunting Gaiters
- Best Fishing Neck Gaiters
- Best Gaiters for Snow