How to Fit Walking Gaitors

Extreme sports, hiking or walking, as well as harsh weather elements, require extra protection for added warmth during outdoor activities. Manufacturers use high performance textiles such as textured nylons, duck canvas or PVC-coated polyester, which are waterproofed and breathable to produce the gaiters, also known as leg protectors. The gaiters cover the ankle, instep and lower leg, when wearing it over the shoe or boot. Gaiter designs vary and are available in different sizes and shapes. Certain styles also include elastic side inserts, heavy zippers and fastening tape for closure.

Instructions

    • 1

      Wear the walking shoes or footwear when fitting different gaiter types. This step ensures the gaiter is compatible to your walking shoe type and design.

    • 2

      Fasten the gaiter snugly below the knee to prevent it from slipping. Design styles vary and can include zippers, fastening tape, cords or snap fasteners.

    • 3

      Position the gaiter over the edge of your walking shoe or boot and fasten. The gaiters fit over the shoe and should not pull at the instep when closed, which can hinder your walking experience. For example, if your gaiter style includes an attached elasticized cord with a snap fastener, wrap the cord under the shoe and snap it on the opposite side of the gaiter. If the gaiter starts to become undone or the snap pulls apart, this is a sign the gaiter does not accurately fit over the walking shoe or boot style.

    • 4

      Test the fasteners by opening and closing all trims to ensure the fasteners work correctly. Fasteners should not jam, snag or unfasten. For example, if your gaiter design includes a shock cord, which sits under the shoe and fastens onto a D-ring, it is important the cord does not separate from the D-ring during activity. Walk around the store with the fastened gaiters, if permitted, to ensure the fasteners do not open during motion.

    • 5

      Put on and take off the gaiters to ensure removal is not challenging. This is especially important for walking along rugged terrain, which often includes unforeseen weather changes.