Hiking Gaiters

[CurlyTail]

Does anyone wear Gaiters while Elk Hunting? This year, I was wearing some lightweight Merrell hiking boots - they fit me great, no hot spots, no blisters, no sore feet, adequate support - but they have a fabric collar that seems to suck up every grass awn in the valley! My boots were full of grass awns, and so were my socks. My wife wont put these socks in her washing machine and I am spending 30 min per sock to pick them clean. My brother, who hiked the identical terrain, was wearing some nicer leather Vasque boots and didn't have anything in his boots which were all leather.

I hate to give up on these boots that fit so well but do you think I need new boots or just to wear Gaiters? If the Gaiters attract stickers, I won't be happy either. Thanks.

[steveo]

I use gaiters every year even in archery season when its fairly warm. They also make short gaiters that are perfect for low boots. Try looking a OR's selection. You should find something you like.

[Rangerz]

I have some from Kings Camo. I had to resew the part that hooks in front to the front lace, but other than that they work great. I like cause they keep my pant legs dry and junk out of my boot.

[jmez]

They work very well but are hot. You won't want a pair that goes all the way to the knee just to keep stickers out. Look into the shorter models.

[mrbillbrown]

I've got a brand new pair of OR Croc gaiters in XL I bought for this Sept elk hunt and never put them on. Carried around in my pack for 7 days. $50tyd if you're interested.

[Indian Summer]

I've got a brand new pair of OR Croc gaiters in XL I bought for this Sept elk hunt and never put them on. Carried around in my pack for 7 days. $50tyd if you're interested.

Those Outdoor Research Crocs are the ticket for non-stick gaiters. After about 10 years I'm about due for a new pair.

[CurlyTail]

I can't decide if I want full protection, and live with some unwanted warmth, or go low, give up some protection, and maybe a little less heat. I bet the short ones are only slightly cooler than the longer ones. I think I am talking myself into the long ones as I would not mind some extra protection against Yucca pokes, and downed timber. I came home really scratched up this year. Those Crocs may be on my christmas list this year.

[Indian Summer]

I don't know what you wear for hunting pants but my Sitka Timberlines weren't cheap. There is no question that the higher gaiters are adding years to the life of my pants. A cheap insurance policy on some pricey duds.

[phall]

kennetrex gaiters 3 yrs and still going strong

[CurlyTail]

I have been wearing 30.00 lightweight synthetic pants RedHeads I think. I figured they would be good for one year, maybe two. They have been surprisingly durable and functional - going on 6 years now, but an upgrade is certainly overdue there also. Just cant bring myself to spend more than 50 bucks for a pair of pants! In fact, my gaiters may cost more than my pants now that I think about it.

[Dr. Rx]

Was really impressed with first light hiking gaiters.. Did the job well, crossing streams that would require higher boots..

Kris

[CurlyTail]

Dr RX - any sizing issues with those First Lites? I heard they had some that were so tiny that you could not even get them fastened around your leg. Maybe that issue has already been fixed.

[CurlyTail]

I have never worn hiking gaiters before - can anyone tell me if they help keep water out of your boots with a stream crossing. I'm sure they do a bit, but wonder if it is enough to keep you from having to stop and remove your boots on small streams where it is only a quick step over the boot top and then you are across - I hate taking the time to keep my feet dry but it is usually the smart thing to do.

[Dr. Rx]

Curlytail...
The first lite gaiters fit tight. It needs to be to keep water out. I crossed a stream 15 yards wide about a foot deep at points where my whole boot submerged daily if not twice a day x 7 days..never got wet. I was wearing the lowa renegade mid tops with first lite gaiters. Was very impressed!

Kris

[CurlyTail]

Wow! Crossing the stream and not getting water over the top into my boots interests me greatly