The 10 Best Gaiters

The default full-height mountaineering gaiter. GORE-TEX upper, 1000D Cordura lower, and a replaceable underfoot strap that you can actually service in the field.

The best hunting gaiter made: 3-layer waterproof-breathable, quiet face fabric, and light enough that you forget it is on your boot. Our pick for steep, wet, off-trail country.

A purpose-built ice and alpine gaiter with a burly instep and a clean crampon-friendly profile.

Mid-weight, waterproof, and easier to get on and off than any full alpine gaiter thanks to a front zip plus hook-and-loop storm flap.

Lightweight alpine hunting gaiter with a stretch-woven upper that moves with your stride instead of pumping air.

Short boot gaiters built for thorn country — they stop burrs, seeds and gravel without the heat of a full-height gaiter.

A trail-running and fastpacking gaiter that attaches to a shoe rather than a boot, with just enough coverage to stop grit.

Crocodile toughness in a shorter cut — the right call when you want protection over the boot but not up to the knee.

Ultralight, low-profile gaiters for fast hikers who want real fabric and a real underfoot strap without the bulk.

A mid-weight all-rounder for hunters and hikers who want weather protection without going full alpine.