Ranking the best leggings for running and hiking in 2022

With the development of world tourism and the popularity of all-season sports, the need for high-quality professional equipment is growing. In particular, for protection from bad weather in an aggressive environment, waterproof and reliable models are required. It is not enough to choose good shoes, it is important to provide for the possibility of isolating it in the upper part from dirt, moisture, and small stones.

For reliable protection of the space between shoes and trousers, gaiters, or "flashlights", are used. You can also find such names as overboots, shoe covers, leggings. It is important to note that in addition to durable insulation, this item of sportswear must also provide joint mobility without restricting free movement.

Gaiters are also used when running over rough terrain to avoid getting small stones, sand, when it is difficult to do without additional cuffs. When playing sports in stadiums in dry weather, you can do without additional accessories.

The best models of gaiters for sports, tourism and mountaineering will be discussed in this article.

How to choose

There are 2 classes of gaiters:

1. For sports running, walking, trail running, they are used with small sneakers, they weigh little and do not have a large length;
2. for hockey, mountaineering, hiking, trekking, they are used complete with massive boots or skates, they have a cuff and a length of several tens of centimeters.

In turn, these classes can be further divided into subgroups.

Material

There are several popular types of materials used in the manufacture of leggings:

• nylon;
• tissue-based membrane;
• reinforced nylon;
• combined composition.

Nylon models are inexpensive and reliably protect from rain, sleet. It is important to understand the difference between the waterproofness of a material and its water-repellent properties. The last position is much more expensive, besides, thin nylon can be easily damaged by sharp objects, in particular, cats.Single-layer nylon is fine for moderate humidity and is especially good for breathability.

Membrane protective accessories have excellent moisture-proof performance and are used with fabrics of various densities. Strength and wear resistance directly depends on the composition of the combination of materials. Taking into account the planned operating conditions, you can choose excellent models with a high level of vapor permeability.

Reinforced nylon is often used in climbing equipment. Thread thickness, Cordura materials greatly affect wear resistance and tear barrier properties.

The combination of several materials is very common. The area of ​​contact with the upper part of the shoe is usually reinforced to withstand the stress of movement. The upper part is lightened and endowed with high ventilating properties.

Length

Short versions are suitable for a slightly aggressive environment, they are light and well ventilated. High models carry the function of additional protection against getting wet and small stones. Long "lanterns" are fixed under the knee with sticky fasteners.

The size

Gaiters of any type are matched to a specific pair of shoes. A snug fit in accordance with the circumference of the shin should completely cover the upper part of the boot in any position of the foot. For mountaineering, lower fixing straps with buckles and additional fasteners are used.

Profile

The thickness of the trousers and the volume of the boots will help you choose loose or tight-fitting gaiters. The fitting should be carried out in a complete set, it is possible that a tight-fitting model will not be able to provide sufficient mobility.It should also be remembered that a tight fit provokes excessive sweating and difficult ventilation.

Fasteners

For mountain tourism, special clamps are used that prevent the gaiters from sliding upwards. The sling passes under the sole and has an adjuster. Often the sling is a cable. Tension control buckles must be metal only. The latch can also be made of wear-resistant synthetics.

Clasps

The most common option is a Velcro strip with a sticky base. Some models use a combination of stripes and zippers. In budget models, the clasp may be absent, which makes their operation difficult. The fastener in the form of a zipper does not have the necessary margin of safety under increased load in an aggressive environment.

The size

For long trips and abnormal weather conditions, the equipment is carefully selected with a mandatory fitting in the kit.

You can use the sizing guide.

Errors when choosing

Experienced athletes are aware of the fragility of uniforms under enormous loads. Moderate sports, like the amateur level, are unlikely to require the purchase of expensive high-quality equipment. The transition to the professional class means the need for quality and reliable accessories.

It is important to understand that the need can also be seasonal, if we are not talking about mountaineering, trekking. In mountaineering, when using crampons, the fixation sling is passed under the connecting bar, so it is important that it be made as a steel cable.

A snug fit to a specific shoe and sufficient mobility of the ankle joint determine the most important quality of compliance.

In models with combined materials, the seam may be at the level of the shaft - this arrangement is incorrect. The position of the seam should be above the level of the ankle, this ensures a snug fit while maintaining freedom of movement.

Overview of the best leggings for running, climbing and hiking

Models for running

Salomon

Leggings for training and competition stay securely on the cuffs with a sticky backing.

• for a protective barrier against small stones, sand, moisture;
• snug fit to the leg without displacement during movement;
• sits comfortably on sports shoes;
• elasticity and lightness;
• additional buffer function during shocks on the coating;
• made of polyamide material.

• for an amateur level of equipment, the cost is above the average for the category.

The budget category includes the Altra Trail model with an average cost of 1,500 rubles.

La Sportiva

The model is suitable for active sports from running to summer hiking.

• the lightning allows to arrange conveniently cuffs on a leg;
• reinforced lower part fits snugly to the shoe;
• the latch is attached under the sole and is made of a durable tourniquet;
• height adjustment is allowed;
• the front part has a tongue with a loop for laces;
• bright colors of a black background with a yellow ornament, a brand and a red lightning;
• provides full mobility of the lower leg;
• waterproof and comfortable.

• very expensive.

Nortec Running Micro Gaiter

Gaiters are designed to protect against snow, soil, sand, moisture when running long and medium distances on dirt trails or rough terrain.

• thermoregulation of the foot is ensured by keeping the upper part of sports shoes dry;
• waterproof membrane;
• landing stability;
• the front part is attached to the laces due to flat protruding loops;
• Speed ​​lace is designed for fastening under the sole;
• the presence of an internal silicone tape;
• provides high breathability;
• made of special fabric with water repellency;
• the cuff is adjustable in volume with Velcro;
• the product has no seams and is produced using innovative technology;
• size range according to the European standard from 42 to 44.

• expensive.

TOP gaiter for sports training and hockey

Fischer JR

The world brand will provide maximum comfort and gives a long guarantee for use.

• made of high quality polyester;
• with a repulsive effect of pollution;
• moisture resistance;
• pass air well;
• recommended for sports activities;
• European standard;
• simple care;
• democratic price;
• reliable fixation;
• many colors to choose from.

• missing.

CCM SR Sock Pit Away SX8000

Hockey sportswear made of moisture-wicking material meets international quality standards.

• the material of manufacture is 100% polyester;
• with a high density of fabric 200g/m²;
• several options for patterns in the form of colored stripes;
• length 76 cm;
• for free movement during active activities;
• repeated washing is not able to damage the quality and properties.

• for amateurs, the cost may seem high.

I ONE SR

The training model has a bright combined color scheme with a predominance of a red background and is recommended for hockey practice.

• the presence of antibacterial impregnation;
• prevents the growth of harmful bacteria;
• odor blocking;
• suitable for professional occupations;
• moderate cost;
• there is a velcro fastening.

• missing.

CCM

A series of professional equipment provides an elastic cuff and maintains a microclimate on the body.

• does not provoke sweating;
• resistance to damage, cuts;
• bright colors do not lose their appearance with regular washing;
• resistant fixation of Velcro;
• reliable protection against moisture;
• made of polyester;
• choice of masters of sports.

• not found.

The best gaiters of a tourist profile

Naturehike Mover Hiking

High strength, reliable quality and comfort have made the model one of the most popular in the segment.

• production material - waterproof Oxford cloth 600 D;
• combined with three-layer composite nylon;
• light weight 175/186 grams;
• produced in L/M sizes;
• bright stylish colors;
• with metal fasteners for laces;
• the presence of an upper fixing strap and an eccentric.

• the question of the strength of the material of the lower sling.

BVN Berkut 3

The model from the well-known manufacturer BVN travel is designed for hikes of medium difficulty.

• reliably protects from moisture and dirt;
• with adjustable latch;
• front closure:
• made from nylon;
• reinforced lower part;
• tear resistance.

• insufficient upper fixation.

Tatonka GAITER HD SHORT olive 2749.331

Lightweight and shortened version for tourism will effectively protect against possible bites and scratches, prevent snow, dampness and moisture from getting into shoes along with soil, sand, grass.

• made of reinforced nylon;
• density 420 grams / m²;
• reliable belts under the sole with clamps;
• with rubber bands around the edges.
• Flaws:
• no cuffs.

Flaws:

• not found.

In the budget class, you can name such brands as:

1. Deuter with its top positions;
2. Manaraga at an average price of 1600 rubles.

Review of the best models for mountaineering, trekking

Climbing and trekking in standard equipment require the presence of gaiters.

TSL Sport Equipment High Trek M

Gaiters are designed for use in high mountain conditions.

• high-tech;
• the level of water resistance is provided with a polyurethane coating;
• the presence of a replaceable cable;
• with rigid fixation under the sole;
• combined zipper and straps with Velcro sticky base;
• quick removal and dressing;
• a lightning on the self-closing valve;
• there is a front hook;
• top with a wide elastic band;
• two sizes L, M;
• light weight, only 125/150 grams.

• not found.

red fox

The accessory is made of specialized Dry Factor 10.000 membrane material.

• wind and moisture protective stable properties;
• with breathable effect;
• ease of use;
• a reliable barrier for the zone of the top of the shoe;
• adjustable up., weight 340 g
• with a moderately tight fit;
• the presence of a tie strap for boots;
• strong and comfortable hook fastening for laces;
• reinforcement is made using 100% nylon;
• stylish color "asphalt" with a highlighted light brand.

• missing.

outdoor research

Made from highly durable fabric with Cordura inserts.

• suitable for tough hikes;
• with strengthening of a zone of fastening to footwear;
• the presence of straps Bio Thane;
• the presence of membranes such as Coretex 3 L;
• proper air circulation is ensured;
• powerful barrier against moisture ingress;
• hooks for laces of increased reliability;
• light weight 289 grams;
• recommended for trekking and expedition skiing;
• dark non-marking color.

• not detected.

Stich Profi

Products for professional high-mountain ascents are fixed with steel cables.

• Made from 100% nylon;
• the upper part is adjustable for optimal volume;
• maintaining the mobility of all joints without squeezing;
• the material is easy to dry and clean;
• fast simple repair available;
• free sale in online stores;
• guarantee of protection against moisture and snow;
• long service life.

• for hiking only.

Matterhorn V2 Bask

Comfortable design combined with reliable waterproof material and anatomical cut is ideal for mountaineering.

• the front placket has a metal fastener for laces;
• fixation with a steel cable;
• breathable membrane provides the necessary air circulation;
• the presence of a side regulator;
• reliable shin protection;
• light and elastic;
• keep feet from sweating
• democratic price.

• no.

Comparison table of the best leggings
1.	TOP models for tourism
	Model	Fastening	Length cm	Average price, rubles
	Naturehike Mover Hiking	+	39/41	2500
	BVN Berkut 3	+	40	2500
	Tatonka GAITER HD SHORT	+	29	2000
2.	Sports class for training and hockey
	Fischer JR	+	-	1000
	CCM SR Sock Pit Away SX8000	+	76	3000
	CCM	+	-	1500
	I ONE SR	+	70	1000
3.	The best models for mountaineering
	TSL Sports Equipment	+	43/49	3500
	Matterhorn V2 Bask	+	42	3000
	red fox	+	40	4000
	outdoor research	+	-	7600
4.	TOP gaiter for running
	Salomon	+	-	2100
	La Sportiva	+	15	6200
	Nortec Running Micro Gaiter	+	15	5400

Conclusion

Extreme sports as well as winter hiking and trekking require the right equipment. Gaiters are used to protect against getting wet and ingress of sand, soil, snow in the area of ​​​​the lower leg and feet. They also prevent insect bites and create an additional barrier against hypothermia during a long stay in an aggressive environment. There are several types of gaiters. Leading manufacturers are constantly improving models, first of all, increasing strength, ventilation, and reliable fixation using the latest technologies. Today the market offers a wide range of gaiters with a guarantee of quality and at affordable prices. For professionals, the industry has taken care to provide the most technologically advanced and versatile models.