Snake Bite Gaiters 101
If you're going into the wilderness (camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, cycling or any other activity) it's essential that you wear hiking boots. These shoes are comfortable and will keep your feet dry and safe from potential injuries or insect bits. Besides suitable shoes, it's important to wear snake bite gaiters that will double the protection of your shoes.
What Are Snake Gaiters?
Snake gaiters are shoe accessories designed to improve your level of protection against the elements, but also venomous plants, insects and snakes. They cover the tops of your shoes and add an extra layer of protection.
Types of Snake Protection
Besides gaiters, you can find other types of leg protection such as chaps and leggings. However, for snake protection gaiters are the classic choice. They fit the footwear with a strap that goes underneath, to keep them in place. Leggings go around the lower leg and are tightened with straps and buckles and they cover a little more than classic gaiters. Chaps give a maximum degree of protection because they cover the entire leg.
Types of Gaiters
Gaiters have the same purpose - to keep things out of your boots. What type of gaiters you'll choose depends on what kind of adventures you're going.
Hiking
Hiking gaiters are lightweight and breathable and give you basic protection against rocks, grit and light rain. Some are entirely waterproof against snow and rain. Hiking gaiters are a common choice for short-day hiking to backpacking trips that last several days.
Mountaineering
These snake bite gaiters will give you heavy-duty protection and some insulation for longer trips in harsh conditions. Most of these gaiters are made of waterproof but breathable fabric to keep your feet dry when walking into snow and rain. Many climbers, and backcountry and cross-country skiers are using these for their adventures.
Trail Running
These snake gaiters are compact and lightweight. Their main purpose is to keep debris out of your shoes. However, in most cases, these aren't waterproof. If you are a beginner hiker, you can start with these (but only if you're going hiking in areas that are safe and only for a day).
Which One Is the Best?
There is no right answer to this question. It all depends on what you need. Narrow your choice by determining where you're heading for your next adventure. If it's hiking or camping in a rainy or snowy climate area, or in an area with rocky and dangerous terrain, be sure to choose waterproof gaiters with a higher level of protection.
Features
Besides waterproof, go for insect-repellent gaiters. These are treated with an insect repellent to keep mosquitoes, ticks and other biting insects away.Check if the fabric is abrasion-resistant; some gaiters have rugged abrasion-resistant nylon on the lower portion. It's used to withstand the abrasion of ice, rocks and the occasional indentation from crampon points. The top closures are usually clinched with toggles and elasticized drawcords; some models have a top strap with a cam buckle. Some models have instep straps that secure the lower edge of the gaiters around the boot's insteps. Lace hooks come in many styles, and are added to allow you to attach your boot laces to your gaiters for more security.
Choose the Level of Protection, Material and Colour
Keep in mind that gaiters only protect the top of your boots. If you're looking for extra protection, go for leggings or chaps. When it comes to material, gaiters can be made of lightweight and comfy material, or they can be waterproof and heavy-duty. The material should meet the conditions of the climate and terrain where you plan to hike, hunt, camp or do any other adventure. If you're not going on any crazy adventures and already know your terrain, it's best to choose lightweight and comfortable gaiters that will not add weight to your feet.
Soft-shell fabrics and coated nylon are excellent choices. For hiking, hunting, and climbing, choose something stronger that provides abrasion resistance and some degree of moisture protection (Cordura nylon). If you're looking for a maximum degree of protection, always go for waterproof and windproof materials that are still breathable and comfortable, such as Gore-Tex. When it comes to colours, they're mostly forest green or camo.
Sizing
Low gaiters are typically 20 - 30cm tall (ankle high) and are best for casual hiking and trail walking. High gaiters (or leggings) are 38 - 45cm tall (they reach the calf) and are better for hiking, backpacking or hunting during bad weather. Chaps go all the way up your leg and are perfect for rugged outdoor activities.
Sizing Tips
When trying on gaiters, make sure they fit right and how closely they fit around your boots. These shouldn't be loose areas or openings so moisture can get in your shoes. Pay attention to how the gaiters fit around your legs and calves. If your calves are larger, use the hook-and-loop system to adjust the fit. You don't have to overlap this fastener all the way. About 1 cm of overlap is enough. If you have really large boots (mountaineering or snowboard boots) may need larger gaiters (usually one size up is enough).
