Snowshoeing Gaiters
While out in the cold hiking on top of the snow you want the best protection to keep you warm and dry on your adventure. Although snowshoes are supposed to keep you on top of the snow there are times where you can fall through fresh powder or kick up snow into your boots. Snowshoe gaiters are a great extra layer to keep you protected and dry when out in the snow.
What are the Best Gaiters for Snowshoeing?
Below are a few of my top picks for snow gaiters from my and other’s experiences. Before buying a gaiter you should know exactly what you want to use it for so you can have a better idea of what you need and what you should be looking for. I highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each product so you can find the best one for you!
1) Unigear Leg Gaiters
Looking for an all environment gaiter? These leg gaiters work for almost any occasion you may need them for. Whether it is to keep your boots dry when hiking through the snow or to protect your pants and legs from getting torn and scratched.
Made from polyester these Unigear gaiters are easily breathable and very durable for any use. The water resistant coating gives them even more versatility as they can be used in the snow and water. High quality polyester makes these gaiters very lightweight and comfortable when wearing. With adjustable straps, they are able to fit any shoes or boots you want to wear.
They come in four different sizes depending on your calf size. To find the right size for you, measure the largest part of your calf and the height from your heel to the bottom of your knee. Once you have your two measurements look at the table provided below and find the correct size for you.
Pros- Affordable, multi-use, lightweight, durable, adjustable
Cons- none
2) Expedition Crocodile Gaiters
Used in sub zero temperatures these gaiters are built completely waterproof keeping snow and water out of your boots and keeping your legs and feet completely dry. Made thicker than many of the other options we have these will help you stay warm and protect from all elements of the outdoors including wind, snow, water, mud, and more.
Made from 100% nylon these gaiters are great for all outdoor adventures.
As our most expensive pair of gaiters on our list, they are well worth every dollar. Made with quality material they are very durable in all weather conditions and will last you longer than many of the options.
Made in 4 different sizes with 2 different adjustable options you will easily be able to find a pair of gaiters that provide a snug fit to your boots and legs. The adjustable buckle allows them to fit to almost any pair of shoes or boots. While the velcro makes it easy to strap to your leg to ensure no snow or debris falls into the gaiter or shoes.
Pros- Lightweight, adjustable, durable, knee high protection
Cons- Expensive
3) Triwonder Gaiters
Looking for a pair of low un-restricting gaiters? The Triwonder gaiter is perfect for keeping snow, dirt, and debris out of your shoes without restricting any movement while in the outdoors.
These Gaiters are very different then what most people look for when wanting hiking gaiters. Before buying them think about what you will be using them for and decide if their low-cut design will work for what you need.
I have learned that this pair of gaiters are great for casual use on basic hikes to keep snow and debris out of your boots. If you are looking to go on longer and more extreme hikes I would recommend a longer more durable product like one of the gaiters listed above.
The Triwonder Gaiters are a very reasonable price. These are my favorite affordable pair of Gaiters for basic hikers who need a little extra protection.
Pros- Affordable, small, lightweight, Elastic fit around the high ankle
Cons- Not as durable as higher end gaiters
What is a SnowShoeing Gaiter?
A proper Snowshoeing gaiter is designed to keep snow out of the tops of your boots or shoes. The design of a gaiter is to seal off the tops of your boots or shoes so snow can no longer get in the opening of your boots.
A proper snowshoeing gaiter will help your feet stay dry and warm. That is not the only thing gaiters are viable for. Gaiters also protect you from sand, dirt, and other debris getting into your boots while in the outdoors.
Knee high gaiters are also great for protecting your legs from bushes, shrubbery, and bugs. The gaiters on our list are more durable than most pairs of hiking pants that can easily rip from getting caught in a bush. With durable gaiters, you will have not have to worry about getting home with scratches all over your legs after hiking. The gaiters will provide you with a great layer of protection.
Snow Shoeing Gaiters are a must have for anyone who enjoys exploring the outdoors. They work wonders to keep snow out of your boots and keep you dry but they do so much more depending on how you use them!
Do I Need Gaiters When Snowshoeing?
You do not NEED gaiters when snowshoeing but they are highly recommended especially going long distances and in deep snow.
Snowshoes kick up a lot of snow and if you don’t have ankle tight boots snow clumps will often fall into the top of your boots. The snow then melts and makes your feet wet and cold when hiking which can be very unpleasant and possibly ruin your hike.
If you never run across the problem of snow falling into your boots then there is no need for you to get gaiters unless you want to use them for another reason.