OR Verglas Gaiters : Kick Up Your Heels

When you're out in the cold, especially when out means on a snow-covered mountain, you need to stay as dry as possible. Wet socks just don't cut it.

That's why I strapped on a pair of OR Verglas Gaiters before I went snowshoeing a few weeks ago on a ranger-led group snowshoe walk at Snoqualimie Pass in Washington's Cascade range.

I'd never used gaiters before--I'm a day hiker, not a mountain climber--but thankfully, they were easy to figure out and adjust. All I had to do was wrap a gaiter around each leg, press together the velcro strips that run the length of each gaiter, and secure the instep strap. The top of the gaiters were adjustable, too, and a small hook in the front of each gaiter anchored it to my boot laces. Then we were off.

It was a perfect day, clear skies, lots of sun, and temps in the mid 30s. The snow pack was about 14 feet. As we wound our way up and across the side of the mountain, along a stream, and in between hundreds of trees our guide stopped occasionally to teach us about lichen, bear caves, animal tracks, and the dangers of falling into tree wells. I didn't think about my gaiters once--not because I was so interested in our mini-lessons--but because they were so comfortable and lightweight that I forgot I was wearing them.

I was kicking up a lot of snow, and even took a few tumbles going down hills, but thanks to my Verglas gaiters, my legs and feet stayed warm and dry.

The Verglas gaiters are made out of super tough, coated Cordura nylon around the base, with a breathable, waterproof material surrounding the calf. They're available in men's and women-specific styles and sizes. Colors: black, black/blue, and black/orchid (women's only).

Bottom Line: OR's Verglas Gaiters are a must-have for hiking, mountaineering, and winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing.--E.D. (April '06)

Price: $39

Manufacturer's Site: www.orgear.com

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