Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters Review

Features:

Tough as a crocodile, Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters keep snow out of your boots when snowshoeing, climbing mountains, cross-country skiing, or just plain snow hiking. They feature waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex®/Taslan® nylon uppers and Cordura® lowers for durability. The Crocodile gaiters seal around your legs with a full length strip of 2 inch hook and loop closure. The tops cinch tight with 3/4 inch webbing and cam buckle. These gaiters also feature hook and loop shear tab at the bottom of front closure, double-riveted boot lace hook, and field-replaceable urethane-coated nylon instep strap.

Specifications:

Height (sz. L): 17.5 inches
Top Circumference (sz. L): 17.5 inches
Bottom Circumference (sz. M): 20.5 inches
Material: Cordura® Nylon lower and Taslan Gor-Tex® upper
Weight (sz. L): 11 ounces per pair

Initial Thoughts (05/16/11):

After being disappointed with the breathability on an inexpensive pair of gaiters, I decided to try the classic Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters. Right off the bat I could tell they are well made and extremely durable. I normally wear a size 10.5 US shoe and the large size fits great with all of my boots (hiking boots, winter snow boots, and mountaineering boots). The main vertical hook and loop closure grips really well and makes the gaiters extremely secure yet still easy to use. I have fairly skinny legs and I was able to tighten the top webbing for a tight fit (sometimes clothing and backpacks don't get tight enough for me). The instep strap feels very beefy and easily accommodates all of my boots. While walking around the house, the gaiters stayed up and felt comfortable. As long as they keep water out and breath, they will be a winner.

In The Field:

I have extensively tested my Outdoor Research Crocodile gaiters on snowy mountaineering trips with very positive results. Foremost, they keep water out and breath very well. My previous gaiters would always have moisture inside, but not once with the OR Crocodile gaiters have I ever seen water inside. They do a great job of keeping snow out and stay in place 100% of the time. I have never felt uncomfortable wearing them or concerned about their durability. I have used them on mixed mountaineering routes and they have survived abrasive rocks with little sign of wear. They are relatively light and easy to stuff in my pack when not needed. They work exceptionally well for glissading in soft wet snow.

See Mount Mitchell, Mount Dana, and Mount Hood adventures where the Outdoor Research Crocodile gaiters were used.

Final Thoughts:

I have been extremely happy with my OR Crocodile Gaiters. They have preformed flawlessly on every adventure I have taken them on. I love their durability, waterproofness, and breathability. Available from amazon.com.