Top Hunting Gaiters of 2021 – Best Choices Reviewed

| Last Updated December 21, 2021

A good pair of waterproof boots can only do so much against the strongest of elements. Water, snow, and small debris can make their way into boots, especially a well-worn pair.

That’s where gaiters come in, removable protection that can be added around a boot and upper shin area to add an extra layer of waterproof and debris protection.

This ensures that not only do your feet remain dry and protected, but your pants as well.

Comparison of the Top Hunting Gaiters

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Abrasion-resistant
  • Type: Snow leg gaiter
  • Material(s): Laminated Construction
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  • Adjustable buckle straps
  • Type: Wet, snow & extreme conditions leg gaiter
  • Material(s): Stainless Steel, Thermoplastic Polyurethan
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  • Very breathable
  • Type: Snow leg gaiter
  • Material(s): 100% nylon
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  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Type: Neck gaiter
  • Material(s): 92% polyester/8% spandex
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  • Best Kenetrek Hunting Gaiters
  • Type: Leg gaiter
  • Material(s): Nylon and polyester
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  • Best First Lite Hunting Gaiters
  • Type: Neck
  • Material(s): 250 GSM Merino-X
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What Are Gaiters? What is a Neck Gaiter?

Gaiters are a covering of leather or cloth that are made to wear over a shoe or boot, protecting the footwear along with the lower leg. They are great for protecting the bottom part of pants from rain and even snow.

Neck gaiters are tubular scarves and are made to protect your neck from any cold chills that may try and creep up. They can also be pulled over your mouth, nose, ears, and lower half of your face if needed, due to their stretchy nature.

They can be made of spandex, polyester, and fleece, and they keep your neck and face warm without being too claustrophobic.

How to Choose a High-Quality Gaiter

Below are the top qualities to look for when choosing a gaiter from our list:

Durability

For protecting your footwear and other parts of your body, a gaiter should be made of the best quality material that is strong enough to hold up against the worst elements.

The best of these products are produced with materials such as leather or polyester (a somewhat plasticized synthetic material) that are both durable and waterproof, an efficient protector from rain, ice, and snow.

Unigear Leg Gaiters Waterproof Snow Boot Gaiters

Breathability

As long as the waterproof factor of a gaiter isn’t compromised, breathability can be something that you should look for when searching for the best gaiter. Your body naturally lets out heat and moisture, making it important for a gaiter to balance releasing body heat and excess moisture with offering protection from the elements.

Form and Fit

Finding a gaiter that is the perfect fit is important; you don’t want something that is too tight or too loose. If it is too tight, you won’t have any proper breathability, and it won’t fit as comfortably as a properly fitting gaiter would. If it’s too loose, the gaiter won’t provide proper waterproof protection, making water and snow more likely to leak in.

Review of the Best Hunting Gaiters

Finding the best hunting gaiter can be difficult, especially with all the different options on the market today. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled a list of the best hunting gaiters that you should consider purchasing, from leg to boot gaiters, plus a neck gaiter as well. With these options, you’ll be well prepared for your next hunting trip, should it rain or snow.

Best Overall:
Outdoor Research Men’s Crocodile Gaiters

PROS

  • Comfortable
  • Waterproofs boots
  • Help keeps feet warm

CONS

  • Runs large
  • No elastic on the bottom edge

Review

These gaiters are abrasion-resistant, waterproof, windproof, breathable, and feature a laminated construction that ensures proper protection. A larger circumference can accommodate for even plastic boots, so you won’t have to worry about an ill-fitting gaiter. A durable and lightweight Bio Thane instep strap helps keep it secure to the boot for a proper fit.

A pair of these will ensure that your boots stay free of debris, your feet remain dry in streams, your pants remain rip-free, and so on. With a durable material that prevents abrasion while still being breathable, these also help regulate heat, making sure your feet stay warm without causing humidity to develop.

Bottom Line

These are durable, abrasion-resistant, waterproof, and more. They protect your shoes and feet from persistent chills, water, ice, snow, and debris. Breathability ensures that your shoes don’t become humid, allowing natural body heat and moisture to properly regulate out.

One thing to consider is that these do tend to run large, and there is no elastic on the bottom edge, so a perfect fit may take a few pairs to find. Able to withstand long hunting trips over rough terrain and through harsh weather conditions, this is the perfect pair to add to your must-have hunting gear.

Product Specs

Type:

Snow leg gaiter

Material(s):

Laminated Construction

Resistant To:

Water and wind resistant

Best Leg Gaiters & Best Waterproof Gaiters:
Unigear Leg Gaiters Waterproof Snow Boot Gaiters

PROS

  • Waterproof
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to put on
  • Adjustable straps

CONS

  • Straps loosen occasionally
  • Strap that goes under heel is a bit short

Review

This pair of leg gaiters are waterproof thanks to their 600D oxford fabric and 300D polyester material, not only providing top notch waterproof capabilities but also resistance to tears and punctures. The top features an adjustable buckle strap that allows you to secure the gaiters in place and have a comfortable fit, while the TPU foot band on the bottom ensures security.

The water and dust proof material that these are made of works to prevent water, mud, rain, snow, insects, sand, and more from entering your shoes or pants.

Wide opening Velcro allows for easy attachment and removal, and it allows these to fit many boots of different sizes. They are lightweight and can be folded to making carrying them around by hand or in a bag easier. They also come in various sizes and colors, including blue, green, and black.

Bottom Line

Overall, this is a sturdy pair of gaiters that are worth investing in. For a good price, you get ones that are waterproof, as well as tear and puncture resistant. They hold up against wind, rain, snow, debris, etc. The straps are adjustable, allowing you to achieve the perfect fit for a variety of boot or shoe sizes.

The strap that goes under the heel is a bit short and will need some adjustments. The straps on the top and bottom of the gaiters loosen occasionally, so minor adjustments may be made during their wear time. Having a good amount of length to them, you can walk in deep snow or through streams, while your feet and footwear remain dry.

Product Specs

Type:

Wet, snow & extreme conditions leg gaiter

Material(s):

Stainless Steel, Thermoplastic Polyurethane

Resistant To:

Water and wind resistant

Best Boot Gaiters:
Outdoor Research Men’s Rocky Mountain High Gaiters

PROS

  • Easy to put on
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Hypalon instep strap for security

CONS

  • Sizing is a bit confusing

Review

Made of nylon, these gaiters are the best boot gaiters for hunting. A Hypalon instep strap ensures security, and the one-inch wide hook and loop front closure allows for a proper and comfortable fit. There is also a bottom shear tab that secures the front closure, and the addition of a reinforced boot lace hook makes for the perfect fit.

Breathable material ensures that excess body heat and moisture are able to escape the gaiter, so you won’t have a build-up of heat or sweat while these are being worn. These are not waterproof, as nylon is a material that can absorb water rather than repel it, so it would be best not to wear these on a rainy day. They do provide protection from debris and natural materials such as rocks, sticks, and twigs.

Bottom Line

These are made of durable nylon and can stand up against debris and other natural materials that may be experienced in a hike or hunting trip. The material is not waterproof, so be wary if you wear them in the rain.

A Hypalon instep strap and reinforced hook and loop closure ensure a secure and comfortable fit for your footwear. The breathable material makes these gaiters perfect to wear during warmer weather, effectively regulating body heat and excess moisture so sweat won't build up.

The sizing for these gaiters can be a bit confusing, so be sure to measure your calf and check the sizing chart based on that. You may also be able to purchase more than one pair and return the pair that doesn’t properly fit, just in case you’re worried about the sizing.

Product Specs

Type:

Snow leg gaiter

Material(s):

100% nylon

Resistant To:

Water and abrasion

Best Neck Gaiters:
Carhartt Men’s Fleece Neck Gaiter

PROS

  • Comfortable
  • Fits well with the right size
  • Stretches to cover lower half of face

CONS

  • Tag is on the inside of the gaiter

Review

This neck gaiter is made of polyester and spandex, with fleece to help ensure your neck stays warm. Comfortable and easy to use, this is the perfect addition to your next hunting trip, should the weather lead to wind and cold temperatures.

The material is very durable and able to stretch, and the gaiter is long enough so you can pull it up and cover the lower half of your face. It is better than your typical scarf, able to help keep in heat while still being breathable, and it’s small enough to fit in a pocket, so you can carry it around whenever you think you’ll need it.

Once you find one that is the perfect fit, not too loose or tight, you’ll never want to go on a hunting or hiking trip without it.

Bottom Line

This neck gaiter is durable and comfortable, made of polyester and spandex with fleece to keep your neck and face warm and protected from chills. The material makes it so that the gaiter can be stretched over the lower half of your face, keeping your mouth, nose, and even ears warm.

One downside to this product is that the tag that provides cleaning instructions is located on the inside of the gaiter, making it a bit irritating on the skin. You could cut it off and make sure to remove it all, or you could turn it inside out if needed.

Finding the proper size is also important, as one too small would be uncomfortably tight, and one too loose would constantly fall down. For a quality neck gaiter at such an impressive price, there is no loss from purchasing this item and adding it to your favorite outdoor accessories.

Product Specs

Type:

Neck gaiter

Material(s):

92% polyester/8% spandex

Resistant To:

Windproof

Honorable Mention:
LeanKing Leg Gaiters

PROS

  • Secure
  • Waterproof
  • Strong velcro

CONS

  • Difficult to put on
  • TPU belt difficult to tighten

Review

These gaiters are the best to use for snow trips or anywhere you may experience wet conditions. The waterproof nylon fabric is also breathable, providing protection from dust, debris, rain, snow, insects, etc. A wide front opening with Velcro closure allows for easy to put on or remove, while a durable TPU belt creates a more secure fit, and is able to last through extended wear and tear.

These are lightweight and can fold up nicely, making them great to carry around for any trip outdoors, should you need an extra layer of waterproof protection. They can withstand low temperatures, and also warmer conditions if necessary, thanks to the breathability of the material.

Colors that this item comes in includes black, blue, gray, and green, and they are able to fit a variety of boot sizes.

Bottom Line

Overall, this is a great pair of waterproof gaiter, and they come at an impressively low price. You can choose a color that best suits your style, and the sizes can fit multiple sizes of boots. Waterproof nylon fabric is durable, tear and puncture proof, and also breathable, making it perfect for various weather conditions. Breathability allows for excess body heat and moisture to regulate out, so it will remain comfortable while being worn.

One thing to keep in mind is that they can be a little difficult to put on until you break them in more, and the TPU belt doesn’t always stay securely tightened. Other than that, these have more positives than negatives, and the price makes up for any small negative.

Product Specs

Type:

Snow leg gaiter

Material(s):

600D Oxford fabric and 300D Polyester

Resistant To:

Waterproof, windproof, mosquito & snake proof, dust proof and tearing resistance

Best Kenetrek Hunting Gaiters:
Kenetrek Waterproof Gaiter

PROS

  • Top Velcro for a secure fitting
  • Unisex design apt for both genders
  • Quick snap-on in-step at the bottom
  • Breathable surface to avoid any sweating
  • Better waterproofing with 100% nylon gaiters

CONS

  • Seems a little overpriced
  • Sizing needs more clarity

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers have taken fondly to its smooth surface. They reported having a great time wearing these because the surface is not coarse at all. Buyers also like the ease of wearing these due to the snap-on in-steps. So, they recommend it to everyone who goes hunting frequently. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

These Kenetrek hunting gaiters have made it to our list because of their nylon construction. They do not only keep water away, but they also have high durability. The fabric holds up to weather strain just fine, so there is lesser damage even in hard weather conditions. 

Bottom Line

All in all, these items have a simple design that lets the users have an easy and comfortable wearing experience. The unisex design means that both you and your spouse can wear these if you have the same size. So, these are worth investing in with all the useful features that they offer. 

Product Specs

Type:

Leg gaiter

Material(s):

Nylon and polyester

Resistant To:

Waterproof / breathable

Best First Lite Hunting Gaiters:
First Lite - Midweight Neck Gaiter

First Lite Midweight Merino Wool Neck Gaiter - Warm Camo Hunting Face Mask - First Lite Cipher - One Size

PROS

  • Higher versatility of use
  • Weighs only 3.2 ounces
  • Extra 2-inch length for added safety
  • Camouflage design for better hunting
  • Great for winter fishing and skiing too

CONS

  • Bunches up easily

What Recent Buyers Report

These products have been a great hit among people who bought these lately. They love these for being useful in keeping the ears and neck warm as well as protecting their legs. There have also been reports of better skiing experience with these gaiters as they keep out the snow.

Why it Stands Out to Us

It catches our eye with the camouflage design, which provides better concealment while hunting. The product is quite warm without making the fabric thick, so they are quite lightweight. Furthermore, they have an extra length of two inches, which works well for tall folks too. 

Bottom Line

Summing it all up, these concealment gaiters protect your feet and legs well. They also serve you on extremely cold days when you forget to bring a scarf with you. Hence, you should get these to have a safer and more enjoyable hunting trip. 

Product Specs

Type:

Neck gaiter

Material(s):

250 GSM Merino-X

Resistant To:

Odor resistant

Types of Gaiters

Below are the most common types of gaiters:

High Gaiters

High gaiters are typically tall enough to reach above your shin, and sometimes even all the way up to your knee. They are designed to be worn over boots and are great for traveling off-trail with or through streams (provided that they are waterproof). They are capable of protecting your shoes and pants through snow, rain, debris, etc.

Low Gaiters

Low gaiters are great for protecting against mud, debris, sand, etc. They are shorter than high gaiters, usually around ankle height, and they are under a foot tall. They are made of a breathable and lightweight material and can keep out debris you may experience from trails without inhibiting movement. With low gaiters, you have more range of movement due to their shorter design.

Neck Gaiters

Neck gaiters are used to protect your neck and lower face. They can often be pulled up and over the lower half of our face to protect your mouth, nose, and even ears from unwanted chills. The material usually involves polyester, a little spandex, and fleece to keep it durable and warm. They often remain breathable, so you won’t feel constricted.

Pros and Cons of Hunting With Gaiters

Hunting gaiters might seem like an extra investment to some, but they can turn out to be quite useful. Here are some of the pros and cons to let you decide if you should invest in a pair.

Pros

Let’s have a look at some of the pros first.

Warmth

As hunting gaiters provide a shield against chilly winds, they make sure your feet remain warm. There is also an additional layer of clothing on the lower half of your legs. This way, the legs remain warm, and there is effective blood circulation there too. 

Avoid Slipping

Since these items do not let any water into your shoes, they avoid any slipping. There is a firm footing, and you get to have a safer hike and chase of game. 

Prevention From Insects

Hunting gaiters a form barrier to insects and prevents their entry into your socks. So, mosquitoes do not bite your feet when you are moving through bushes. 

Cons

Now, let’s go through some cons for a better perspective. 

Obstruction in Movement

Gaiters are not tightly wrapped around your legs, so they may sometimes cause you to falter. So, you have to be extra mindful of your step when you are walking on rocky surfaces. 

An Additional Weight

Sometimes, these items can be a little too heavy, making it harder for you to move. But, you can overcome this by wearing lightweight shoes. 

Conclusion

Gaiters are great for protecting your footwear and pants from rain, debris, snow, mud, dense shrubs, bushes, and so on. They are made from durable materials that are often quite puncture and tear proof, and waterproof as well. Gaiters are perfect for adding an extra, waterproof layer of protection to your feet, able to keep them insulated while still being breathable, perfect for those cold winter months.

With many different types of gaiters out there, all at great prices and of good quality, you’ll be doing yourself a favor to purchase one and add it to your inventory for your next hunting or hiking trip.

People Also Ask

Hunting gaiters are not something very technical, but still, people do not wear them usually. This is because they are quite confused regarding their use. So, we have tried to answer some of the most common questions to help you clear all your confusions.

What Are Gaiters Used For?

Gaiters are used to protect your lower legs and feet against any harm while you are hunting. They provide an effective shield against winds, dust, and water. This way, you get to stay warm while hunting, even in cold areas. They also protect your feet from insects’ bites, preventing any infections. 

How Do Gaiters Work?

Gaiters cover the lower half of your legs and protect them from various harmful agents. They are sometimes zipped down to your ankles and prevent any dust, snow, or water from entering your shoes. So, if you want to stay agile in the woods, then getting a nice pair of gaiters is necessary. 

How to Size Gaiters

The size of these depends primarily on the size of your shoes and legs. They should be neither too loose nor too tight. Rather, they should fit your calves snugly to provide you the best protection. So, try out gaiters with your socks and shoes on to get the perfect compatibility. 

How to Wear Gaiters?

Gaiters come with an in-step and a Velcro or zipper. You have to pass your foot through the in-step strap and fasten it tightly over your shoes. Then zip up the gaiter while keeping the zipper towards the front of your leg. 

If you have a Velcro-based gaiter, then simply secure it in place by tightening the Velcro. But, you have to be careful while tightening the Velcro to avoid any disturbance in blood circulation. 

How to Clean Gaiters?

Cleaning your item is quite simple and easy. Just follow these basic steps, and your gaiters will be as good as new. 

  1. Begin by brushing off any debris or clung dirt from the surface of the gaiters. 

  2. Then use a sponge soaked in warm water to clean the outer and inner surfaces. You can use a soft detergent, too, if needed.

  3. Now rinse them and let them dry naturally.

How Often Should You Clean Gaiters?

Hunting experts recommend cleaning your product every time you wear them. After you have had a good day at game, cleaning is essential. This will keep them working for a long time, and you will have fresh gaiters to wear every time you go out hunting. 

What’s the Best Material For Gaiters?

The best material for gaiters would be nylon or polyester oxford fabric. Oxford fabric used for gaiters is often finished with a water repellent and laminated with a polyurethane coating. The material remains pliable and stretchy while adding durability and waterproof capabilities. Nylon is also great because it is comfortable, elastic, and durable.

How to Wear a Neck Gaiter

Neck gaiters aren’t difficult to wear, and they’re quite comfortable if you find the right fit. Neck gaiters are similar to tubular scarves and can be placed over your head and then pulled down to protect your neck from the wind. They typically contain enough extra fabric to be pulled up to cover the lower half of your face, including your mouth, nose, and ears.

Because of its tubular design, gaiters stay securely in place, as long as you’re not wearing one that is a size too big. You can also wear them as a ski cap to protect your ears and face, or as a bandana.

How Can I Keep My Gaiters Waterproof?

Even if a gaiter is said to be waterproof, it doesn’t always keep the rain or mud completely out. You can keep your gaiters waterproof by adding a polyurethane spray to it, as it is a reliable sealer and is capable of protecting any fabric that is not typically waterproof or water resistant.



My name is Caleb and I am obsessed with hunting, fishing, and foraging. To be successful, you have to think like your prey. You have to get into the mind of your target - and understand Big Game Logic. If you have any questions, or just want chat about your latest hunting score or big catch, you can reach me at admin@biggamelogic.com. Read more about Big Game Logic.