Outdoor Research Crocodile are the gold standard for waterproof, durable gaiters. They are not perfect, but are way more waterproof and durable than most hunting brand's offerings. I had Crocodile gaiters for 6+ years of Alaska hunting, hiking, and snowshoeing before they showed significant wear and the Goretex started to leak and the straps frayed. I then went to First Lite gaiters for a hot minute and they performed similar to the Stone Glacier gaiters mentioned above (i.e., very poorly), so I went back to OR Crocodiles and am happy as can be.
Sitka and Peax gaiters appear to have copied the OR Crocodile gaiter and perhaps made a few improvements. Sitka are $$$ (no suprise) but are lighter than Crocodiles and have a nice Goretex construction- Sitka knows how to use Goretex. Peax are a smidge lighter than the Crocodile and they have dyneema stitching and a kevlar boot strap, minor improvements.
What I'd like for any gaiter is more coverage over the toe laces, which is where mud and water accumulate during really wet hikes. This eventually leads to saturation of leather starting at the edges and stitches. I have some leftover PCV raft fabric and stainless wire that I will use to make some lace protectors that augment the gaiters.
Sitka and Peax gaiters appear to have copied the OR Crocodile gaiter and perhaps made a few improvements. Sitka are $$$ (no suprise) but are lighter than Crocodiles and have a nice Goretex construction- Sitka knows how to use Goretex. Peax are a smidge lighter than the Crocodile and they have dyneema stitching and a kevlar boot strap, minor improvements.
What I'd like for any gaiter is more coverage over the toe laces, which is where mud and water accumulate during really wet hikes. This eventually leads to saturation of leather starting at the edges and stitches. I have some leftover PCV raft fabric and stainless wire that I will use to make some lace protectors that augment the gaiters.
