Different gaiters are often better suited to a certain kind of boot or shoe, though there is a great deal of overlap. Some gaiters, for instance, are made with big, bulky mountaineering boots in mind. Hiking boot gaiters are good because they occupy a middle ground between the big, burly mountaineering boots and the smaller shoes, and just about all gaiters will fit them. And that means you have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to selecting your next hiking gaiters. It helps if you identify what you need your gaiters to do for you, and then do your shopping.
Hiking Boot Gaiters
What to look for when reviewing hiking boot gaiters.- Durable – Gaiters take a lot of abuse, and if you don’t want to be replacing them every year it pays to get a durable pair, rather than something cheaper that’s going to fall apart. Related to this, many gaiters make it possible to replace the strap that goes under your boot, which is one of the pieces of gaiters that takes the most abuse.
- Waterproof – If you expect to be trying to keep a lot of moisture off of you then you will likely want a pair of waterproof gaiters. If, however, you would rather have a pair of gaiters that will breath well, and aren’t so worried about getting wet, a pair of water resistant gaiters might be a more versatile option.
Best Hiking Boot Gaiters
Some of the best possible hiking boot gaiters for your next outing.- Rab Latok Mid Gaiters - If you just need a pair of waterproof ankle gaiters to keep a little water and debris out of your shoes or boots while out hiking, then the Latok mid gaiters are a great choice. They use 3 layer eVent for the top portion, eVent being a fabric similar to Gore Tex, but generally regarded as more breathable, which is perfect for a pair of gaiters. So they don't give you the same protection that full length gaiters do, but sometimes all you need is ankle length gaiters.
- Rab Hispar Gaiters - The Hispar gaiters are the same 3 layer eVent as the Latok mid gaiters above, but with a full calf length, so that you get more protection from the elements. Of course eVent is a good, breathable option, so while your feet wont get wet from outside moisture, they also wont end up sweating too much either. The bottom portion is made with 600D ballistic polyester, which will prevent most damage, but is not as heavy as the bottom material used on most mountaineering gaiters.
- Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters - If you would prefer a solid pair of mountaineering gaiters for going hiking in, then the Crocodiles are perfect. They won the 1999 Backpacker Magazine Editor's Choice award, which gives you an idea of how long they've been around. They' re completely waterproof on top, thanks to tough 3 layer Gore Tex material. The bottom is heavy duty 1000D cordura nylon, so a great choice for some casual hiking, or some not so casual adventures in the mountains.
