10 Best Trail Running Gaiters Reviewed

Whether you are an experienced trail runner or you’re just getting started, trail running gaiters will become your new best friend. To help you make your selection, we have compiled a brief list of considerations to take into account. This type of specialized trail running equipment should not be selected randomly as they are each designed for specific uses. Before you head out to the great outdoors, let’s make sure that you are matched with just the right ones to suit your needs.

Many gaiters are made using synthetic materials. They might have a DWR ( durable water repellent) finish on the outside, with a breathable membrane inside, or have just the water repelling finish.

High gaiters offer a more protected feel for your lower leg. You will be better off with a high gaiter if you plan on running off trail or on a trail with lots of obstacles. Some gaiters will only provide a minimal profile.

Low cut running gaiters fit around your ankle. They are ideal in offering protection against dirt and pebbles, which might slip in as you run. They are perfect for running on a day when there is the possibility of it raining. They provide ample protection to the feet from the dirt and grime that are associated with trail runs and lowland rambling.

Gaiters used to be made using rubber, as this was the most effective at repelling water at the time. But with the numerous advancements in sporting fabrics and synthetics, running gaiters are now manufactured in a vast variety of manmade fabrics. These fabrics are based around artificial/synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon and Cardura. Running gaiters can now offer high levels of water repellency and great breathability while remaining lightweight.

The most common fabrics are eVent and Gore-Tex. Gore-Tex is created with waterproof but breathable pores that keep moisture out while also letting moisture from inside your shoe escape. Perfect for gaiters that are likely to be used in a very moist climate and/or your feet sweat a lot. Typically all gaiters are efficiently designed to be weather resistant and offer protection while also having abrasion resistance.

All gaiters have some amount of abrasion resistance, providing a high degree of durability and protecting your gaiters from wear and tear. For instance, Inov-8’s Debris gaiter is known to have the lowest degree of resistance to abrasion, because the material used is softer and with sock-like features.

Here we also looked attachment points.This determines the gaiters compatibility with trail shoes. Most running gaiters have a strap which fits the outsole of the shoes. However, we have gaiters that are strapless. These types of gaiters will connect to the shoe in a variety of ways, using either fastening loops or hooks. For these types, you will need to get a shoe that is compatible to that particular type. It’s good to note that not every gaiter will fit into just any running shoe. It’s advised that before you buy a running gaiter you check its compatibility with your running shoes.

As you may have read from our waterproof running shoes buying guide, water, dirt, and debris always manage to find a way into your shoes. The number one much-needed unwanted companions make their way in is through the top of your shoes. To add a much-needed layer of protection, manufacturers have developed gaiters of different shapes and sizes. Our buying guide is specific to trail running gaiters – it’s important to remember that hiking and snow-related gaiters are typically constructed with much thicker fabric, come up a lot higher up on the leg and are really about maximum protection. In contrast, trail running gaiters focus on breathability and range of motion; therefore they are constructed from a stretchable material that minimizes heat and water retention.

Every once in a while during your runs, you have to deal with the issue of stuff getting into your shoes, which is not only painful but also slows down your running. This is very common especially if you’re into trail running - it can be anything from dirt and rocks to snow and mud, so you have to make sure you're protected from all potential hazards. If it's “easy” trails you are running on, you might not need a trail running gaiter, but it will definitely help if you end up running off-trail on rougher terrain or through the woods, where the protection of a trail shoe alone won't be enough. Gaiters serve both to keep debris out of your shoes as well as to provide protection from branches or rocks that might scrape your legs.

It's really important we have an extra layer of protection from moisture and debris. If you know that dust and pebbles are going to be an issue then the decision is really a no-brainer. Better to use a gaiter than to have skin irritation or blisters.

Cheap gaiters will have fastenings made with Velcro, while higher quality gaiters usually have closures that are zipped and covered using a storm flap. The zippers are typically anatomically curved to fit your body, and help to ensure that the gaiter can open and close easily. These also give you a more secure fit and feel when worn. Most gaiters are designed with a hook that is used to secure the gaiter around the front part of your shoes or boots. They are often elasticized around the ankle section of your foot to enhance the fit. At the top part, you will find a press type of stud fastening and a pull-cord with elastic properties for tightening the gaiter. The very best gaiters are of course usually the most expensive as well, and use a fastening buckle that of a click-lock style with an adjustable strap that prevents over the over-tightening which can occur with elastic styles.

Whether you are looking to buy the most affordable option or have a budget to purchase the most expensive gaiters out there, you will find that the value of your product goes beyond the price. If you are a trail runner, then you know how important the right running shoe is--and once you find the perfect pair for yourself you will want to protect them and make sure you get the most out of them.

The best trail running gaiters will not only protect your feet and legs, but they will also protect your shoes further and prevent them from getting damaged by unexpected outdoor elements--we can never know what we will encounter. Regardless of your budget, you are going to want gaiters that cover your needs and protect you and your shoes.

When looking at the value we looked at the price and compared it to the features it offers--is it waterproof, water-resistant, secure, etc. We also took a look at what actual users had to say after utilizing them for a period of time. The value we gave each product is based on our overall assessment and, while it does consider it, the price is not the sole factor taken into account.

While you narrow down your choices, we encourage you to take a look and consider our value rating, however, we also want you to know that you need to apply it to your own needs. If you see that a gaiter designed for snowy conditions is highly rated in the value department but if you live in South Florida, then you probably won't find much value in the product. We assess the products as a whole and don't categorize them for specific environments, climates, etc.