How to Use Gaiters

Use Gaiters and Stay Out Longer

If you like to hike, ski, hunt, bike or just spend time in the outdoors no matter what the weather, then you know how quickly your feet can become wet, even if your footwear is waterproof. Water can still get into your shoes or boots through the laces and the top. Gaiters--garments worn over the shoe or boot and bottom of the pant leg--are made specifically to keep your feet dry. Learning how to use gaiters can help you prolong your enjoyment of the outdoors.

Things You'll Need

• Gaiters

Instructions

1. Get completely dressed for your outdoor activity, including the shoes or boots you will be wearing.

2. Pick up one of your gaiters so the bottom is hanging towards the ground. The bottom of the gaiter has a strap of elastic connecting the two sides. The top is shaped like a tube.

3. Open the top of the gaiters. If your gaiters have a release cord, loosen it by pressing the tab on the plastic lock nut and pulling. If they have elastic, simply stretch the elastic sewn in at the top band with your hands.

4. Put your gaiter on as if you were putting a sock on over your shoe. Make sure the elastic of the gaiter fits snugly underfoot, between your heel and arch. Pull the gaiter up as high as you can. Typically, gaiters will stop just below your knee. Tighten the cord at the top for a snug fit, if that is the style that you have.

5. Arrange the lower part of the gaiter so it covers the top of your shoe and laces as much as possible. Repeat these steps to use your other gaiter and you are ready to go.

Tips & Warnings

• Even with using gaiters, your feet may become wet. Make sure you always have a spare pair of clean, dry socks to help prevent frostbite.

References

• Even with using gaiters, your feet may become wet, make sure you always have a spare pair of clean, dry socks to help prevent the risk of frostbite.

Resources

• Forums and More for BackPackers