Kahtoola Instagaiters Ultra-Light Ankle Gaiter
I accumulate most of my hiking miles during training sessions near my home in Colorado Springs. Around here we have what is called Pikes Peak Granite. There’s a much more scientific way to explain what this is, but to the average hiker it’s just pea-size crumbly granite all over everywhere that easily finds it’s way into hiking shoes when hiking. What helps reduce the number of stops along the trail to empty our shoes is ankle gaiters.
I’ve used a number of different brands of ankle gaiters, but all have some objection to the primary point of an ankle gaiter – keeping bugs, rocks, and other debris from getting into our shoes. Some wear out quickly because they can’t stand up to the durability needed in these conditions. Some don’t fit well enough or lack the required features to actually do the job. And some are just too heavy.
Among all the brands I’ve tried, the ankle gaiter that has yet to fail me is Kahtoola’s Instagaiters. They aren’t the lightest on the market, but they are still ultralight (from just under 2oz to just over 2oz, depending on the size and version).
Unlike other brands, they are durable with an adjustable, abrasion-resistant, thermoplastic polyurethane instep strap that is warranted to last 1000 miles. Yes, 1000 miles!
The fabric is 84% stretch-woven recycled nylon and 16% polyurethane blend with PFAS-free C0 DWR treatment.
Other key features include a tensioned, two-piece design that hugs the contours of your shoe or boot to seal out more moisture, dirt and debris much better than others that are not form-fitting.
The durable YKK VISLON® side zippers are offset from center, designed so you can’t feel the zipper rubbing on your ankle.
Putting them on and taking them off is smooth and easy. No more velcro to get clogged with dirt and wear out quickly. (although they do have a velcro/strapless version if that’s your thing).
There’s a quick release draw string on the top that fits as snug as you like.
A clip on the front allows you to hook it to a gaiter connector or loop onto your laces.
They are designed to be machine washable for easy clean up.
Kahtoola has a variety to choose from: low, mid, and tall. They also have some with a little tougher and less breathable fabric if you are trekking through rougher or wetter terrain.
The pair I have show very little sign of wear (remember, I hike on crumbly granite most of the time), now in the second year of using them.
When I find a great piece of gear, it’s hard for me not to tell everyone. We can spend way too much on gear, just trying to find what works for us. These gaiters work very well for me. I figure that instead of buying several pairs of inferior gaiters and being dissatisfied, why not spend once, use them for years, and be happy with having the best stuff? That’s what I’m all about with my gear.
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- SPECIAL NOTE: Attention thru-hikers and trail runners: The INSTAgaiter SL can only be found on their website; it's their lightest gaiter ever - minimalist, strapless design compatible with shoes that have a gaiter trap.