Outdoor Blog

How to Make Gaiters for Hiking

Published

5 years ago

September 9, 2019

Gaiters are essential footwear items for hikers and backpackers. There is a wide variety of styles available on the market, from Gore-tex mountaineering gaiters to ultralight thru-hiking gaiters. However, there’s a huge trend amongst outdoor enthusiasts in making your own gear.

Whether you have special requirements, or just think you can do it better, making your own hiking, camping and backpacking equipment is easier than you think. We’ve written about building a tent from scratch, DIY camping showers, and now you’ll learn how to make gaiters for hiking.

This article will outline why gaiters are important, and why you might want to try your hand at making a pair for your next hiking trip; there are so many benefits to wearing gaiters, you’ll wonder how you’ve gone without. We’ll also go into the different options available for materials and methods for making your own pair.

Blades of grass and a trail in the rain.

A good pair of gaiters will help protect your feet from harsher elements, like rain.

Why are gaiters important?

The number one reason to wear gaiters is long-distance backpacking. Hiking hundreds, even thousands of miles is a huge undertaking and one that many outdoor enthusiasts aim to complete. Hiking trails are usually free from larger rocks and sticks, but still feature plenty of small stones and plant debris.

On an extended hike, you could find yourself stopping very often to empty out your shoes. Pine needles cause splinters, pebbles can bruise, and gaiters can prevent these problems. For casual day hikes, this extra piece of kit isn’t vital, but it makes a big difference long-distance. If you’re spending an extended period of time on the trails, ultra-light gaiters are a valuable addition to your outfit. These are also vital when trail running, as you’ll be kicking up extra debris with every step.

Some gaiters also provide an extra layer of waterproofing. Bridging the gap between your trousers and your hiking boots, waterproof gaiters prevent water from running down your legs into your shoes. If you’re hiking in rainy conditions, it won’t take long to soak your boots, especially if you’re wearing waterproof pants as the boots will collect all the runoff. Waterproof gaiters do an excellent job of preventing this, a problem which can be dangerous in cold weather.

Also helpful in the winter months, gaiters can provide an extra layer of insulation. The thicker the gaiter, the warmer you’ll be, and this is vital if you’re hiking through deep snow. Ice climbing gaiters are ultra-thick, waterproof, and abrasion-resistant, to give you full protection from the harsh environment.

Another important purpose that gaiters serve is protecting your legs from crampons. When hiking and climbing, crampons can easily snag on the opposite leg, so wearing some protective heavy-duty gaiters will prevent holes in your trousers.

If you’re hiking through the backcountry, preferring to stay away from well-traveled trails, you might encounter thick bush or rock scrambles. These would give your lower legs quite a battering, so in order to protect your legs and trousers, wear some protective gaiters.

While gaiters can be purchased in stores or online, making your own will allow you to customize them for the perfect fit and performance.

Why make your own gaiters?

As mentioned, the number one reason to wear gaiters is for long-distance hiking. The ultra-light gaiters used for this are simple, and not very technical, so many people choose to make their own. If you struggle to find hiking gear that fits correctly, this might be another reason to make your own.

For example, a common problem with the fit of gaiters is the tightness around the top. This means they might fall down or not seal, meaning debris can still get inside and the gaiters lose their main function. If you’re tall you may struggle to find full-length gaiters that give you full protection. Otherwise, you might want to try making your own gaiters just for fun, or maybe you can think of some improvements you’d like to implement.

Different materials used for gaiters

The material you use for your gaiters affects the weight, amount of insulation, breathability and amount of waterproofing. This makes the material an important consideration when making your own gaiters, as it affects the level of comfort and performance you’ll get out of them.

Most gaiters are made from one of two materials. For longer length gaiters, nylon is the most common material. The thickness and weight of nylon materials can vary, but for creating your own pair, we recommend using polyurethane-coated ripstop nylon.

This will provide lightweight and waterproof gaiters, that are reasonably hard wearing. Gaiters made from spandex are very stretchy, flexible, and lightweight. They don’t provide a lot of protection but are enough to keep trail debris from getting in your shoes. Many upmarket gaiters use Gore-tex, which is a great material that is both waterproof and breathable, but this is harder to use when making your own pair.

There are two different methods we’ll outline for making your own gaiters. Both of them require basic materials and a sewing machine, but if you’re used to making your own hiking and camping equipment this shouldn’t be an issue. Read on to find out how to make some simple waterproof gaiters and a pair of lightweight trail running gaiters.

You don’t have to be an expert to make your own gaiters. You just need some basic tools and a little patience.

Method #1 for waterproof homemade gaiters

For a pair of simple waterproof gaiters, use this easy method. These gaiters will keep debris and water out of your shoes and will provide some protection from any obstacles you might encounter on the trail.

You will need:

Measuring tape
A large piece of paper
Sewing machine
Scissors
Pen
8 4-inch Velcro fasteners
Waterproof material, for example, ripstop nylon

1. Firstly you’ll need to determine the measurements for your gaiter pattern, as there’s no reason to make your own gaiters and not have them custom fit. Put on all the hiking gear you’d usually wear, trousers and boots specifically. Then measure the lower circumference of one leg, over the top of your trousers. Measure once at the shin, and again around the calf. Add 4 inches to each of the measurements and then record them for later use.

2. Measure down the outside of your leg, from above your boot (where you want your gaiters to finish) to the ankle. This will be the length of your gaiter fabric, so record the measurements.

3. Next, you’ll need to create a pattern for your gaiters using these measurements. Using a big enough piece of paper, draw one vertical line representing the gaiter length measurement, then draw a horizontal line for the shin circumference measurement (your shin circumference plus 4 inches) at the top of the vertical line, meaning you should have now drawn a “T” shape.

4. At the bottom of the vertical line, draw another horizontal line using your calf measurement.

5. Connect together the ends of the two horizontal lines, which should leave your pattern looking like a triangle with the tip cut off. You can now cut out this pattern.

6. Use pins to attach your pattern to the fabric you have chosen for your gaiters, and carefully cut around the edge.

7. Now you have the raw material cut to size for your gaiter, turn in a 1/2 inch hem around all sides, and stitch using a sewing machine.

8. Attach four four-inch Velcro fasteners and their corresponding straps to the gaiters. Three fasteners should go horizontally at the top, middle, and bottom of the gaiter, along one side of the open gaiter length. The fourth should go on the bottom edge, which is the narrower end. Place this fastener so it aligns with the arch area on the sole of your boot. This will allow for the instep strap to wrap under the arch of your boot, keeping the gaiter from rising up your leg and securely in place. Throughout this whole process, you can “try on” your gaiters in order to make sure they fit correctly and all the elements are in the right place.

9. Connect the corresponding steps to line up with each Velcro fastener on your gaiters.

10. Repeat for a second gaiter to complete the pair!

A sign that says hiking trails in the woods.

A god pair of homemade hiking gaiters will allow you to take on some of the best trails in the world.

Method #2 for ultralight homemade gaiters

Most long-distance backpackers wear trail shoes, as they’re much more comfortable and lightweight. If you’re spending hours a day hiking, it’s great to have some extra protection, and these lightweight spandex gaiters are perfect for this purpose. You can use any spandex fabric you might find in the store, so why not grab some crazy patterns and make your own pair of gaiters stand out from the crowd.

You will need:

A large piece of paper (for example newspaper) for constructing a pattern
Measuring tape
Marker pen
Fabric scissors
Straight pins
Sewing machine
Needle and thread
Polyester thread (or another synthetic thread, just not cotton)
1/2 yard of lycra or spandex material
Some spare scraps of a durable nylon fabric
Lighter
Superglue
Large hook and eye hooks (must be big enough to hook onto shoelaces
Velcro strips

1. Firstly you’ll need to construct a pattern to work from. Gather your paper and pen, measuring tape, and a pair of scissors. Mark and cut out a rectangle 22cm high and 40cm wide, and fold in half lengthwise. Reopen the fold, so you have the paper in front of you crease up.

2. Measure 2 cm from the top (longer length) of the paper and fold it down, repeating along the bottom ledge as well.

3. Keep these creases folded as you re-fold the center crease. The paper should be folded one way in the center and the opposite way around the edges.

4. Next, keeping the paper folded up, measure outwards along the top of the paper 9 cm, starting from the creased side. Make a mark using a pen or pencil at this point. Do the same along the bottom 19cm, or 18cm if you have smaller feet. Now, use a straight edge to draw a diagonal line between these two points.

5. Cut along this line using your scissors, then open up all the fold of the paper, and you have a pattern ready to make your own gaiters.

6. Place the pattern on your chosen fabric. You can pin the two together, or trace around the pattern. Either way, cut out a piece of fabric to fit your pattern.

7. The next step is to hem the edges of your fabric. The top and bottom edges should fold to be perfectly aligned, as the pattern accounted for this shape. You can fold the fabric just once, or fold it a second time to hide the raw edges and make a stronger hem. Pin the fabric folded in place using your straight pins.

8. Next, it’s time to use your sewing machine. Sewing stretchy materials like spandex can be a struggle, so we recommend practicing with a few spare scraps of fabric first. Because of the elasticity of the fabric, the feeder foot will stretch the bottom layer of fabric as you feed it through the sewing machine. In order to combat this, sew slowly and carefully. Feed the fabric into the machine with care, and take your time. Once you’ve had some practice and checked the tension on your machine, you can sew the hems of your gaiters.

9. Use a zig-zag stitch to sew along your hem, removing pins as you go. It’s likely there will be some puckering of the fabric, but once you’re wearing the gaiter it won’t be noticeable so don’t worry. You might find it easier to start from the middle of the fabric and sew to one edge, before starting from the middle again and doing the other side. This will help keep stretching and puckering to a minimum. Once your hems are complete, fold the fabric in half lengthwise, inside out. Pin together the two raw edges, and using the zig-zag stitch sew them as close to the edge as you can.

10. Then, switch your machine to a straight stitch. Use this to sew a line parallel to the zig-zag stitch from top to bottom, this will reinforce the connection.

11. Your gaiter should still be inside out at this point, but switch it to the right side now to try it on. This size should fit most, but of course, the benefit of making your own gaiters is having a custom fit. Check that it’s not too tight or too loose on your calves. Then you can make adjustments as necessary.

12. Once you’re happy with the general fit of your gaiter, take it off and bring your attention to the front point. There will be some extra fabric here from the hems, you can trim this off. This area will be reinforced later so don’t worry about the raw edge, just ensure there’s no tip sticking out.

13. Now you’ll need some of your durable nylon fabric straps. Cut out a rectangle several inches wide, and use a lighter to sear the edges and prevent fraying. Line up the rectangle across the raw edge where we just cut off the tip of the fabric, and sew it in place using a straight line stitch.

14. Turn your gaiter over, and fold the two corners into the gaiter, creating a triangle point, and pin this in place. Then use a straight stitch to sew along the edges and middle of your now reinforced tip.

15. Use a needle and thread to attach the lace hook to the reinforced tip of the gaiter. Make sure you do this on the outside of the gaiter, with the hook pointing down. Aim to attach it so that the edge of the hook aligns with the point of the reinforced tip, and be sure to use plenty of stitches so the hook is securely in place; there will be a fair amount of pressure and pulling on this connection from your shoelace.

16. Cut a strip of velcro about two inches long, you’ll need the soft and fuzzy looped side for this step. Attach it to the inside of the gaiter, along the bottom, opposite where you attached the lace hook. This is where the heel of your boot is. You can attach the Velcro using adhesive if it comes with it, but we recommend sewing it in with a straight stitch too as the adhesive can degrade over time.

17. Some hiking shoes and boots come with a gaiter trap, aka the other side of the Velcro, already installed on the heel. If your shoes don’t, you’ll need to attach the corresponding hook side of the velcro to the heel of your shoe. To get the best fit, put on your shoe and gaiter and check where the soft Velcro you already attached to the gaiter falls. This is where you should place the hook Velcro, which you can secure in place using superglue.

18. Your first gaiter is now complete, so all you need to do is repeat steps 6-18 to create a second, and you have a brand new pair of homemade gaiters, ready to hit the trails! If you need it, read our article on how to wear gaiters for some advice.

A group of people hiking through the mountains.

Now that you’ve made the perfect pair of custom gaiters, it’s time to hit the trail.

Final Verdict:

You now know two different methods of how to make gaiters for hiking. Both of these methods provide simple and lightweight gaiters, best for trail runners and hikers. If you need high gaiters for mountaineering, these should be much more heavy-duty and you’ll probably have to invest in a shop-bought pair.

Spandex trail gaiters are so easy to make, they fit right over your trail running shoes and stop all those pesky stones and twigs from working their way inside. However, these gaiters are not water-resistant, so if you’re hiking through rainy conditions, use the first method we mentioned.

The same goes for hiking through long grass which might be wet. You might feel overdressed, but wearing a waterproof pair of gaiters will do an excellent job of keeping your feet dry.

Gaiters are such an underrated piece of hiking gear, but their benefits are endless. For dry feet and pebble-free shoes, try your hand at making a pair of gaiters today.

Bonus tip: Check out this video on how to wear gaiters!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 weeks ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter