Last updated on September 22nd, 2022 at 12:17 pm
To combat snow flipping into your boots or melting on your ankles, the best gaiters for snowshoeing will be a game changer. And, if there’s chance you will see some deep or wet snow, we’re here to help.
After researching and testing, we’ve put together our findings on gaiters that are perfect for your next snowshoeing trip. For example, the best gaiters for snowshoeing are durable, waterproof, and offer great fit.
What Makes a Great Snowshoeing Gaiter?
As with anything, snow gaiters can range from budget-friendly to high-end. Regardless, all gaiters worth their weight will have a few simple attributes to consider:
- Durable Materials: Importantly, long trips should end with the same gaiter with which you began. Reinforced stitching, strong strap materials, and hardy buckles are areas of importance.
- Waterproof or Water Resistant: While some gaiters are made for mud and others for sand, snow gaiters should focus on water resistance.
- Good Fit: Finally, gaiters should cinch above the calf muscle securely. Where they should sit without falling down. Any straps or hooks for attaching to the shoes should be reinforced, and able to withstand freezing to maintain a good fit.
Our Favorite Snowshoeing Gaiters Are...
After reviewing all of the options on the market, we’ve come to some surprising conclusions. Including some budget-friendly models that rose to the top, here are a few we thought deserved special mention:
Best overall: Outdoor Research Verglas
Our favorite for harsh cold: Outdoor Research Crocodile
Best budget option: Black Crystal Waterproof
While there are many great options, we’ve found that our favorites tick all of the boxes for great snow gaiters. However, we have a few more amazing gaiters below, which you may find useful based on your style of hiking.
Comparison Table of Snowshoeing Gaiters
First, we’ve collected our favorites and displayed them below for an easy summary of our findings and for quick comparison.
| Picture | Name / Link | Price |
|---|---|---|
 
|
Outdoor Research Verglas | $$ |
 
|
Outdoor Research Crocodile | $$$ |
 
|
Black Crystal Waterproof | $ |
 
|
Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter | $ |
 
|
LOPOO Snow Gaiter | $ |
As you can see, gaiters may all look relatively the same. However, we investigate the differences below to see what sets each apart.
1. Outdoor Research Verglas
Firstly, our favorite, the Outdoor Research Verglas, is perfect for all snowshoeing excursions. In fact, water resistant features and durable materials make for a gaiter that will quickly become a go-to part of your winter wardrobe.
Furthermore, we’ve found that hikers love this option for snowshoeing, winter hiking, and cross country skiing.
Waterproof Pertex Shield 3L
Additionally, the OR Verglas is made with Pertex Shield 3L, a highly durable waterproof material.
Pertex Shield 3L holds one of the highest ratings for waterproofing while maintaining flex and breathability.
Now, while Gore-Tex models hold a higher waterproof rating, these options may be a little bulky. In fact, bulkier options could prove to be an overkill for snowshoe treks.
For this reason, the OR Verglas is our winner because in snowshoeing you will likely not cross standing water, just deep snow.
Tough materials for rough conditions
Furthermore, we’ve found where many gaiters fail is their instep strap and bootlace hooks.
In this case, the Verglas instep strap is made of durable Hypalon for a truly secure fit.
In fact, while competitor’s materials may break or unravel, Hypalon is a synthetic rubber that resists temperature extremes and retains flexibility.
Finally, the Verglas has heavily reinforced bootlace straps that hook in and don’t let go.
Comfortable for many journeys
Without a doubt, a comfortable gaiter will keep you on the trails longer.
The Verglas’ materials are designed for breathability and comfort.
And, we found the Verglas to offer a high level of movement variability.
Additionally, hikers give a resounding thumbs up for their ability to sit securely over the calf for the entire hike.
As a result, most hikers forgot they were even there and were able to enjoy their day to the fullest.
Pros and Cons of the Outdoor Research Verglas
Outdoor Research Verglas PROS
- Highly waterproof
- Well made
- Durable buckles and strapping
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
Outdoor Research Verglas CONS
- Cost
- Fit runs large
Who is This Gaiter Perfect For?
Finally, the Outdoor Research Verglas Gaiter is great for casual and avid snowshoers alike. Altogether, this gaiter will be perfect for day trips, open undulating hills and deeps snow.
View more information, including styles and current pricing, here: Outdoor Research Verglas Men’s or Outdoor Research Verglas Women’s
2. Outdoor Research Crocodile
The Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiter is another beast on the mountain side.
And, if you’re planning a lengthy wilderness exploration, these gaiters will be your best friend.
For instance, Gore-Tex will keep hikers warm and safe in any environment on any hike.
Above all, high quality and waterproof materials make this gaiter shine. The OR Crocodile offers hefty invincibility on slopes and trail alike.
Truly Waterproof
Firstly, for trips into the extremes, the Outdoor Research (OR) Crocodile is a go-to gaiter for experienced hikers.
In short, this crocodile has several layers of anti-abrasion, industrial nylon, and flexible nylon.
This model boasts waterproof function, and it means it.
And, topped off with a Gore-Tex treatment, these gaiters are as good as it gets for longevity and dryness.
Great for Heavy Duty Excursions
Additionally, because they’re crafted from heavy duty materials, you can expect a slightly heavier gaiter.
However, the Crocodile is built to keep your lower legs and boots dry in the harshest of extremes.
So, if this is where you’re headed this gaiter is the best option out there.
Additionally, while hiking there will be instances where you’ll need to remove snowshoes and trek on foot.
In these moments, a truly water-proof gaiter can be a game changer.
High Quality Materials
As mentioned before, the instep strap can be the weakest point in the construction of gaiters.
Furthermore, abrasion between snowshoe binding and gaiter instep strap can become a real issue.
Moreover, when looking for the most durable option, you’ll find it in BioThane.
And, the Crocodile has hefty BioThane instep straps to combat deterioration.
Pros and Cons of the Outdoor Research Crocodile
Outdoor Research Crocodile PROS
- Gore-Tex waterproofing
- Best for mountaineering
- Durable materials
- Reinforced seams and straps
- Comfortable
Outdoor Research Crocodile CONS
- A bit bulky
- Less breathable
- Cost
Who Will Love The Outdoor Research Crocodile?
Finally, for snowshoeing in the mountains, or for heavy wet snow or slush, hikers will love the Outdoor Research Crocodile.
View more information, including current pricing, styles and sizing, here: Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiter Men’s or Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiter Women’s
3. Black Crystal Waterproof Gaiter
A surprise contender, the Black Crystal Waterproof Gaiter is a hearty option for your daily trips.
Snowshoers love these gaiters for their affordability as well as their quality construction.
Quality Construction
Firstly, being made with the same materials as many of the best gaiters, the Black Crystal’s details are in the stitching.
And, Black Crystal has reinforced seams for tough, long-lasting straps and boot paneling.
Moreover, this gaiter has aluminum buckles and metal bootlace hooks.
As a result, snowshoers have found this gaiter to be leagues above others in its price range.
Waterproof Construction
Additionally, the Black Crystal gaiter will be more than enough for long trails.
And, for most snowshoeing, water-resistance is all you really need.
And with waterproof 1000D Cordura and 3 layers of 70D industrial nylon, this gaiter is a great find.
Pros and Cons of the Black Crystal Gaiter
Black Crystal Gaiter PROS
- Comfortable
- Affordable
- Reliable hardware
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
Black Crystal Gaiter CONS
- Not for extreme conditions
Who Will Love The Black Crystal Gaiter?
When it comes down it, the Black Crystal gaiter is perfect for weekend trips and casual snowshoers. With quality materials at an unbeatable price point, many hikers will love this option.
View more information, including current pricing and sizing, here: Black Crystal Waterproof Gaiter Men’s or Black Crystal Waterproof Gaiter Women’s
4. Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter
Another fantastic option for your next snowshoeing adventure is the Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter. While it’s on the lower end of the price spectrum, you may not expect it to be a hiker favorite.
However, Unigear’s ability to balance function and quality lands it near the top of our list.
Heavy Duty Hardware
Firstly, you’ll see a lot of options out there with plastic clips and pull tabs.
And, many of these materials can’t stand up to extreme temperature differentials. Thus, breakage occurs from UV wear mixed with sub zero temps.
Conversely, Unigear incorporates stainless steel clips and fasteners to ensure their gaiters stay put.
Water Resistant 600D nylon
Furthermore, snowshoers encounter mostly deep powder. Therefore, the Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter is all you need for comfort.
With 600D nylon fabric, you can be sure that these gaiters more than keep up with competitors in water-resistance.
For example, this is about the same material as backpacks or a gym bag, but picture it in three-ply. So while it may not be a completely waterproof, it will help shed a ton of loose snow.
In addition, this gaiter is complete with a waterproof membrane on the interior.
However, we found this membrane to begin to break down after a handful of washes and rough wears.
Pros and Cons of the Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter
Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter PROS
- Afforable
- Water-resistant
- Water-proof membrane
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Durable hardware
Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter CONS
- Seams may need reinforcing after a few trips
Who Would This Gaiter be Perfect For?
Finally, if you’re new to snowshoeing or winter sports, the Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter is a great beginners tool. The Unigear Gaiter is fantastic for occasional trips out, or for effortless treks on the trails.
View more information, including current pricing and sizing, here: Unigear Snow Boot Gaiter
5. LOPOO Snow Gaiter
Finally, the LOPOO Snow Gaiter makes for an awesome companion on long snowshoeing trips.
Hikers appreciate these gaiters during snowy days out and praise them for being well made and fitting great.
Waterproof Construction
Firstly, the LOPOO snow gaiter is made of premium 900D nylon in several layers.
For this reason, hikers find this model perfectly suited for many long hikes on snowy trails.
Moreover, with secure stitching and layered protection, this gaiter offers mid-level waterproof construction.
Lightweight and Packable
In addition, we love the LOPOO Gaiters for their flexibility and reliability in the wilderness.
And, hikers agree, these are super comfortable and offer a great fit. For instance, these have a dependable above-calf fit for a snug ride.
Alternatively, with their packable nature, the LOPOO gaiter would be a great backup to a premium model.
With all of the things that can go wrong with gear, thinking ahead is never a bad idea.
So, for long trips out in the wild, a pair of LOPOO gaiters in your pack may be a life saver.
Pros and Cons for the LOPOO Snow Gaiter
LOPOO Snow Gaiter PROS
- Affordable
- Breathable
- Well made
- Waterproof
- Great fit
LOPOO Snow Gaiter CONS
- Stitching may need reinforced
Who Would The LOPOO be Perfect For?
Finally, the LOPOO Snow Gaiter would be a perfect companion for casual snowshoers that occasionally hit the trails. In addition, the price point makes these a good backup gaiter for avid hikers to pack for emergencies.
Check out more information, including current pricing and sizing, here: LOPOO Snow Gaiter
Before Picking Your Snowshoeing Gaiter
Regardless of which gaiter you choose, keep in mind the following attributes for great snowshoeing gaiters:
- Durable materials. You’ll want materials you can rely on. For long trips, choose gaiters with durable seams and straps.
- Waterproof rating. This may seem obvious, but some gaiters out there are more for repelling mud or rocks.
- Comfortable fit. Double check the length before buying, you’ll want gaiters that rest above your calf and stay up all day.
Finally, all gaiters are clearly not created equal. We’ve found some amazing options above, and we believe them to be the best gaiters for snowshoeing.
However, be sure to check the sizing of your boots and your calf muscle against the manufacturers sizing charts.
Gear Up and Explore
While waterproof pants are indeed an option for snowshoeing, snow will still make its way into your boots. For this reason, the best gaiters for snowshoeing are a preferred wardrobe addition for winter sports. However, with the variability in trail difficulty, weather conditions, and frequency of use, your choice will be unique.
Winter is waiting. Whether it’s a mountain trek or a casual snowshoeing date, gaiters for the family will make trails cozy, dry, and enjoyable. So pick up a pair of snow boot gaiters and chart your course.
Image Credit: brewbooks|(source)|Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0) –reduced file size
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