Gaiters

How to choose shooting gaiters and chaps

Both gaiters and chaps protect your lower legs, but they suit slightly different jobs. Use the guide below to choose the right option for your terrain and the time of year.

Gaiters vs chaps

• Gaiters wrap around the ankle and lower calf to stop water, mud and grit getting into your boots. They are a strong choice for wet ground, boggy tracks and long walks-in.
• Chaps cover the front of the legs over your trousers. They are useful in heavy cover, brambles and rough ground where you want extra protection without changing trousers.

Materials and protection

• Waxed cotton and coated fabrics can help with light rain and wet grass.
• Technical fabrics and tougher panels can improve abrasion resistance when pushing through cover.
• Check whether the design is water-resistant or fully waterproof, depending on how wet your ground tends to be.

Fit and fastening

• Gaiters should close securely around the boot and calf to reduce gaps where water can enter.
• Look for strong straps, hooks or zip closures that will not loosen as you walk.
• Chaps should sit comfortably over your usual trousers without pulling at the knee.

Best pairings

• Wear gaiters with men’s shooting trousers for all-day protection on wet ground.
• Wear chaps over hard-wearing shooting trousers when you expect rough cover and brambles.
• If you wear breeks, match them with long socks and garters for a secure fit and traditional look.

If you are building an outfit, return to shooting field essentials and add lower-body options such as men’s shooting breeks.