We all have experienced that. We are enjoying our outdoor trip and even though we are wearing waterproof and impregnated boots, the water still gets inside. It got there from the top of our shoes. By the same opening we get into our shoes. Also some small stones and branches may get inside. Can we somehow limit it? Yes, we can. By using leg gaiters. How does it work ?
Put them on and stay dry
Leg gaiters are practically tunnel sleeves from resistant material. They are placed over your legs to achieve seal around your shoes to keep moisture and debris out. The fabric must be mainly strong and water resistant. DuraTec or nylon and its modifications are the most widely used materials. Sometimes even Gore-Tex is used. The proper material is the basis, but how the gaiters are attached to the legs ?
Right design is the basis
As we have mentioned, they are tunnel sleeves, but without proper fastening system even the best gaiters will not work. Attachment is simple and elegant. There are different options, from straps to different elasticated features. Both will help the gaiters to comfortably snug around your calves and shoes. The self-locking design is very simple to use, but still effective. The problem may arise when we want to stretch the sleeves during the hike. Fortunately, some manufacturers thought about it and therefore some gaiters feature zippers or velcro closure around the entire length. This alows simple opening as well as closure for better tightness.
Choose the right ones
We can offer gaiters of different designs. Focus on that first and then think about the material which is just as important. The gaiters must not be slipping. Their wearing should feel natural, we should not worry about slipping otherwise we will be constantly thinking about it and will not enjoy our trip.