Hmm... in the high country of AZ and NM I never felt the need for snake gaiters and after decades of tromping around I just don’t see the need. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone wear them up there either.
Mby I’ve been lucky but I’ve never worn snake gaiters in S AZ/NM ever even in high snake season and most people I know don’t either. I have one guy who does and he’s deathly afraid of them but as far as I know he’s never had a snake encounter close enough to need them.
I grew up in nw NM, live in central NM and never thought there is a need for snake gaiters. In fact, Im not sure where they should be used. Curious as to what unit you will be in? I grew up in Unit 2.
Good luck on your hunt!
I've been roaming NM for a lifetime and have never used them although I have been a little worried about the dog getting bit, he sticks his head into a lot of bushes. I imagine you won't be sticking your head in a bush so your probably good to go, just take a look at the ground and rocks before you sit down.
Turtle Skins. By far the most comfortable and simplest option for snake protection. Truth be told, I haven't gotten a ton of use out of mine. My desert hunts have been in colder months recently.
But after a mid October deer hunt where we almost stepped on rattlers a couple times a day, it's was enough to motivate the purchase.