Best Hunting Gaiters Reviewed & Rated for Quality
William
Shanena Ketchum
Some of the most fun, exciting and popular outdoor activities include hunting, hiking, and jogging. But in order to have a great experience, you need suitable equipment. Gaiters are a pair of coverings for the lower half of the legs, worn mainly by people who go walking, climbing, or enjoy other outdoor pursuits. Their aim is to stop dirt and water from entering your shoes. There are many types of gaiters and the right pair depends on the kind of activity you have planned and the weather and trail conditions you expect. They are great for keeping your feet dry and protected from the elements. Whether you spend a lot of time outdoors, or just go camping once a year, it’s always important to stay protected. Check out our list of the top-selling models in the market and find a pair that meets your need now!
In a Hurry? The test winner after 10 hrs of research
Durable and tough against all weather conditions
Best choice for wearing with plastic boots
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Outdoor Research 61572-413 -
OUTAD Legging Gaiters
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Outdoor Research 61122-001
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Outdoor Research 61007-001
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AKEfit Outdoor
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Unigear Leg Gaiters
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Altra AXU16301
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Oumers
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MAIYU
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TRIWONDER
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
10 Best Hunting Gaiters
1. Outdoor Research 61572-413
Durable and tough against all weather conditions
Best choice for wearing with plastic boots
Long in leg height
Once again Outdoor Research shows up on the list, this time with one of their high-end models. Buyers that want one of the best in the industry will find these gaiters to be a quality buy.
Read moreA+ Materials
Using 100% Nylon for the upper leg (70D) and Condura (100D) for the inner leg, there are only a handful of better gaiters in the entire industry. You can count on these to be your go-to pair of gaiters for years.
Features and Specifications
Bio thane instep strap
Abrasion resistant and lightweight
Cost and Value
This is one of the most expensive gaiters on the list, as they come out to about the average-high price. Even if they cost more than some boots, it’s a necessary accessory if you’re outdoors a lot. Very few buyers have been disappointed with this purchase, and it provides everything you would want from a pair of gaiters. When paired with high-quality boots, it’s an unstoppable combo.
2. OUTAD Legging Gaiters
Comes in five different colors
Includes a metal hook for fastening
Money back guarantee
Lightweight and durable
Maybe too small for boots
Velcro may not hold right
Thanks to their superior quality and advantageous features, customers place OUTAD Legging Gaiters among the best products on the market in this category. They are made from high-quality fabric that is not only tearing resistant and durable but also allows air to flow through for great breathability. They are small, lightweight, and come in five different colors.
Read moreOxford Fabric
These are made of 600D Oxford fabric, which is known for its durability and breathability. The unpredictability of weather or terrain you are stepping on won’t be a problem since OUTAD Legging Gaiters gives you confidence that you are protected.
Easy to Fasten
Comfort is an important factor you need to consider when choosing the right leg coverings. This is why these feature a metal hook that can be fastened and adjust to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Cost and Value
The price varies, depending on the color and size you select, but you can be assured that you are getting your money’s worth. OUTAD is so confident in their product that they offer a money back guarantee.
3. Outdoor Research 61122-001
Best model from Outdoor Research
Snug fit with the maximum amount of protection
Big calves will have problems fitting
Once again Outdoor Research shows its dominance, landing the #1 spot on our best-hunting gaiters list. With the low and women’s version of this model on the list, the high versions are where it all started.
Read moreStrong Without The Bulk
Using a traditional style for gaiters, the Rocky Mountain High manages to add protection without a lot of bulk. And this is all done without compromising the overall quality of the product.
Features and Specifications
Nylon with Hypalon instep strap
Reinforced boot lace hook
Cost and Value
The price varies but is average across the board no matter what size you buy. This is consistent with other high-end gaiters and is worth its weight in value. The best on the list is no surprise and won’t let you down when you need it. Outdoor Research has created the gold standard for gaiters in the industry.
4. Outdoor Research 61007-001
Secure and stays in place
Has a high rate of consistency with different sizes
Straps are not replaceable
Now things start to get interesting, with the Rocky Mountain Low Gaiters. Outdoor Research has done some really good business with this model, and it continues to impress customers.
Read moreNot Bulky At All
Wearing gaiters don’t have to add uncertain bulk to your legs or feet. With the low top design in effect, it’s as close as possible to not wearing them at all.
Features and Specifications
100% Nylon
Hypalon instep strap with reinforced boot lace hook
Cost and Value
Although they come close to being the average price, they fall more within the low-average range. With the high rate of fits with all sizes, this is a good value. It’s secure, has great sizing and is competitively priced for gaiters. Depending on these for protection won’t be a problem at all even for a hardcore outdoorsman.
5. AKEfit Outdoor
An improved version of #7 product on the list
Comfortable material that won’t rip when used
No color options
Next up on this list is this great product. Good for hunting and hiking, these gaiters are well known for their waterproof ability and comfortable fit. Debris and bugs will stay out as well with the snug fit and stylish look. Try not to pass up with option!
Read moreWaterproof
Entering the wilderness requires some planning, depending upon the season and current climate. This product has been designed to assist with many things, such as keeping you dry. No more worries of snow and rain, getting into your boots or soaking your pants!
Adjustable Cord
This set of hunting gaiters is bound to keep out debris and stay up on your legs. There is an adjustable cord built into these gaiters, ensuring a tight fit that stays comfortable for long periods of time.
Cost and Value
Average priced, and at this point the most expensive item on the list. What's more, is that these gaiters are comfortable and stylish. This is a top flight pair of gaiters that serve their purpose well. Conditions won’t be an issue, turning this into one of the best purchases for the outdoors.
6. Unigear Leg Gaiters
Made with Polyester and Oxford fabric
Has an adjustable strap on top
Great for different environments
Available in three colors
Lower buckle may loosen during wear
May run small
Unigear is an industry leader with vast experience in manufacturing high-quality outdoor equipment and their leg gaiters are a great example. They are made from 300D Polyester and 600D Oxford fabric, giving you a very durable and long-lasting item that is rip, puncture, and water resistant. They are available in three different colors and four sizes and can be used in a variety of different situations, including rain, snow, jungle, and desert.
Read moreMulti-Functional
These are a great choice for anyone who enjoys different outdoor activities. They are firm, yet comfortable enough that you can easily move around without feeling constrained.
Fits Different Sizes
To ensure that you receive something that fits you right, the leg gaiters produced by Unigear are available in 4 sizes. They even provide an easy to read size chart.
Cost and Value
The cost differs depending on size and color. However, it is worth mentioning that this product not only is priced comparatively low, but it also has a lifetime warranty. Therefore, if the Unigear Leg Gaiters seem unsatisfactory to your needs, don’t hesitate to let them know!
7. Altra AXU16301
Compatible with Altra trail shoes
High compatibility with other branded trail shoes
Only comes in lime green or orchid
The materials on the Altra Trail Gaiters are a bit different than the others on the list, and it works well. It may take some getting used to, but once you break these in there is nothing else like them.
Read moreGreat Materials
Using a mixture of Nylon and Spandex, these gaiters can protect your feet from various elements. And because of the materials, they are a bit more flexible and stretchy than normal gaiters.
Features and Specifications
82% Nylon and 18% Spandex
Front metal lace hook
Cost and Value
The materials are really good and the price is low, so there is a lot of value in this bundle. Owning other Altra branded products helps since they are compatible. A mixture of nylon and spandex has never been better, and the price is just right for interested buyers. Even if you are not a fan of Altra products, this turns out to be one of their best yet.
8. Oumers
Lightweight and true universal fit
Available in black or camo
Fasteners can be a pain to use
At the midway point in the list is another pair of unisex gaiters, with variety being a strong feature. Oumers made a great pair of gaiters that will last for years, and work on a wide range of sizes.
Read moreGreat Fits
Using a one size fits all approach, the company found a great middle ground. Compared to the other gaiters on the list, these have a universal fit possible for small to big sizes.
Features and Specifications
600D Nylon fabric
Weighs 5 ounces
Cost and Value
As another low priced pair of gaiters on the list, with a universal fit, it serves as the best value. Several members of the family can share the same pair when needed. It’s impossible to ignore the universal fit of this product which really cuts down on how many pairs you need to keep in a home. Give them a whirl and you’ll realize how much of a great investment these gaiters are.
9. MAIYU
Best gaiters on the list for skiing
Great customer support and longevity
Available colors look average
Maiyu makes their first appearance on the list with a very popular pair of gaiters. Adding in some additional features over a regular pair of gaiters, there is a lot of positive things to say about this product.
Read moreRust Proof Materials
Gaiters are used in some pretty bad conditions so having rust-proof components is important. Maiyu made the shoelace hook and strap able to withstand abuse, leading to a better long-term pair of gaiters.
Features and Specifications
Available in army green, blue, orange and red
High-quality Velcro fittings
Cost and Value
You won’t spend a lot on this pair of gaiters and will be looking at a low price. With such great waterproof abilities, anyone that skis will find great value in them. Whatever your outdoor activity is, this should be on your shortlist of gaiters to buy. It’s a solid purchase from a quality company.
10. TRIWONDER
Tough on long trips through bad weather
Keeps airflow positive and comfort optimal
Lightweight
Nice snug fit
Very adjustable
Not as water resistant as others
At #10 is Triwonder with a very reliable pair of high snow leg gaiters for both men and women. Even if it isn’t advertised as such, these are a really good fit for both sides.
Read moreBreathable Fabric
Along with the high resistance to cold, the fabric won’t leave you uncomfortable. Enough air will get in while still keeping the unwanted cold air out.
Features and Specifications
Made of coated-polyester, waterproof grade: 5000mm
Extremely lightweight
Can be used for an abundance of different activities
Cost and Value
A pair of these won’t run high at all and are a low cost even when compared to the rest on the list. With the way they are built, it should last years of abuse. Buyers that want a safe pair of gaiters will get their money’s worth with this Jteng product. With only a small investment this could turn into a sure winner.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Water Resistance
If the gaiters do not resist water, then they will do little to stop your feet and ankles from getting wet. That is why water resistance is an important part of purchasing hunting gaiters. There are a few different ways that hunting gaiters are made to be water resistant, but they tend to come down to the construction of the item and the materials it is made from.
You will want to begin by checking what materials are used to make the gaiter. Generally speaking, synthetic fabrics work better at resisting water than fabrics made out of natural materials. This is because synthetic fabrics are polymer based and therefore repel water rather than absorb it as natural fibers do.
The construction of the hunting gaiters will also play an important part in making sure that they resist water. Many hunting gaiters feature dual or triple layer construction. In other words, they will have an out shell and an inner lining. Triple layer gaiters may have a water-resistant or waterproof member in the middle layer. At a minimum, you should look for hunting gaiters that have two layers. The exterior layer should be water resisting shell that is designed to block water from snow, rain, mud, etc.
Materials
There are some areas where you won't want to wear hunting gaiters that have a hard shell, while other times you will want to look for hunting gaiters that have a softer shell and are more flexible. Where you are walking outdoors will be a determining factor on how hard you need the shell to be.
However, sometimes hard shell hunting gaiters are unnecessary. For example, if you are walking in the winter, then chances are that much of the undergrowth has died off due to the season. Furthermore, animals that might attack you may not be harmful during cold weather.
Nevertheless, you may still find it beneficial to wear hunting gaiters that are not hard or soft either. It may be more convenient for you to purchase a pair of hunting gaiters that are suitable all year. If you are not concerned about animal attacks and you are in an area where the plant life isn't too sharp, then you may find it sufficient to purchase hunting gaiters that offer a mildly hard shell and more flexibility.
Versatility
Some hunting gaiters are designed to favor certain hunting conditions and are engineered with a specific purpose in mind. If this is the case, then you may want to consider where you are going to be hunting and what sort of conditions you will face. For example, some kinds of hunting gaiters are designed for dry and mild conditions while other kinds of hunting gaiters are meant for winter weather. When you pick the proper kind of hunting gaiters for the conditions that you plan on hunting in, you will find that you get better protection and performance from your hunting gaiters.
You should always take the time to consider the conditions that you will find yourself hunting when you are purchasing hunting gaiters. Some conditions call for tough and durable hunting gaiters. This will be in areas where there is a lot of undergrowth, thistles, or harmful animals such as snakes. You may also find yourself in damp and wet conditions. If this is your situation, then you should try and find hunting gaiters that resist moisture and help you stay warm. That way your legs do not end up feeling cold and damp while you are hunting. People who are hunting in dry conditions that do not have a lot of undergrowth may get away with wearing lightweight hunting gaiters. These gaiters are more geared for keeping stuff out of the bottom of your shoes. Finally, if you are going to be in an area with ticks, then you might want to look for gaiters that are treated to repel insects.
Overall Fit
Hunting gaiters are sold at different heights. The height of the gaiter will determine how much protection you get from the gaiter while you are spending time on the trail. You can pick from three different height starting with over-the-ankle, mid-calf, or knee height. As the gaiter gets taller, it will offer you more protection, but that also means that the gaiter will be warmer and may weigh more. You should try and match the gaiter to as close to what you need when you are purchasing a hunting gaiter. That way, you will be more satisfied with the overall purchase.
Features
Hunting gaiters come with a wide variety of features, some of which you may find to be useful. You usually find that hunting gaiters that have more features will be a higher quality set of hunting gaiters as opposed to a lower quality pair of gaiters. In many cases, the features found on the gaiters will directly impact how long the gaiters will last and how well they will work. When you are purchasing a set of hunting gaiters, you should try and make yourself aware of how the different features found on the gaiters will impact how well they perform. This a certain way to make sure that you are happy with your overall purchase rather than frustrated and disillusioned.
Water resistance and waterproofing are two features that are commonly found in hunting gaiters. Spending time on the trail can lead to moisture exposure from plants, brush, rain or snow. For this reason, it is typical to see hunting gaiters that resist water or are completely waterproof. In addition to being waterproof, many hunting gaiters are made with fabrics that resist abrasion. Once again, gaiters are exposed to scratching and rubbing from the undergrowth, and you do not want to end up with a pair of hunting gaiters that are unable to withstand such stress. You do not want to experience your gaiters getting caught and tearing because they could not resist abrasion.
The next feature isn't common, but it is still available to people who are specifically looking for it. Once and a while you will run into a pair of hunting gaiters that have insect repellent build into the gaiters. The idea is to keep annoying and biting insects off of you and your clothing.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Water Resistance Materials Versatility Overall Fit Features 
Outdoor Research is a name you’re going to see a lot on this top ten best-hunting gaiters list. They do a fantastic job of making compatible sizes and gender-specific gaiters. Due to the differences in leg sizes, compatible sizes is the most important thing when considering a brand.
Treat gaiters like any other heavy duty snow or hiking gear. Warm water with some light scrubbing will get rid of any stubborn dirt that stays attached. There is going to be a lot of build-ups so keeping them fresh and ready to go on a trip is important. Gaiters don’t really require a lot of upkeep out of the normal realm of hiking equipment if you keep up with it.
Other Factors to Consider
Bottom Line
There really is only one answer to this question, and that’s focusing on the fit. You don’t want gaiters that sag or are too tight. If they sag then you’ll run the risk of tripping and hurting yourself. And if they’re tight and you use them a lot, then it can turn out to be life-threatening. Focus on the fit, and if it isn’t optimal return them for better sizing.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Are Universal Fit Gaiters A Good Choice?
Yes, especially if more than one member in your home can wear them comfortably. Universal fits are really great for this, and can even save you money.
q: Will The Type Of Boots I Wear Make A Difference?
Not by much. The straps or clamps on gaiters are made to be adjustable enough to work around any boot type.
q: How Big Of A Deal Are The Materials?
Now, this is a point of conflict, with some customers preferring the old-school leather, while some will only deal with 100% nylon or polyester. There is no best material, so just focus on breathable fabrics that are comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
q: What is the best kind of fasting for hunting gaiters?
Inexpensive hunting gaiters will usually have velcro while more expensive gaiters will have a lace hook or even a click-lock buckle strap. You should make sure that you avoid velcro since it will likely come undone while you are wearing the gaiters. The better that the gaiters attach to your legs, the better they will perform so you should allow looking for ones that have a click-lock buckle or at least a drawstring or pull cord.
q: How can I protect myself from snakes?
There are special gaiters that you can purchase that will keep snakes from biting you. These gaiters normally have some sort of plastic or polycarbonate shield that is too hard for a snake to sink its fangs into. If a snake were to attempt to bite you while you are wearing such gaiters, they will be unable to penetrate the shield. You should always wear this kind of gaiter when you are walking in an area known to have snakes.
q: How should I clean my hunting gaiters?
If the care tag on the gaiters says that you can wash them in the machine, then go ahead and wash them according to the instructions. If you are sure, then you can wash the gaiters in warm water with a sponge or a brush to get the heavy dirt off for them. When you have finished washing your gaiters, you should rinse them completely and then hang them out to dry until they are fully dry.
q: How can I keep my gaiters waterproof?
There are fabric treaters that are widely available that you can use to treat fabric and make it water resistant. You should apply such treatments to your gaiters on a regular basis and always after washing them. Over time the treatment will break down and start to wear out, which is why you need to treat your gaiters as a part of maintaining them. This will help them stay waterproof so that you stay dry.
q: How do I stop my gaiters from falling down?
You should make sure that the gaiters have a snug fit that isn't too tight on your legs. If they have a top cord, then you should also make sure that the cord has been pulled tightly shut and secured to your legs. This will help keep the gaiters from falling down. If the gaiters are too large, then you can always try wearing thicker clothing underneath them as a way to make them fit snugger.
