OR gaiter, which one??

jm1607

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Was going to get some low cut OR gaiters.. Didn't realize there was like 10 different models lol!

Anyone have any recommendations?

The Endurance, Flex-Tek II, and Rocky Mountain Low's stand out as probably the best designs, but I'm not sure..
 
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Aventus

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I have the OR crocodile gaiters and although I haven't used them yet, I have a bad feeling about them. These things way alot. Just about as much as my boots. So, they seem a bit overkill from that standpoint. I am sure they will perform great in the sense of keeping water out and keeping you dry, but damn they feel heavy. Are gaiters usually this heavy?
 
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Or crocs are bomb proof. Honestly meant and best suited for heavy snow work - think snow packing, snow shoeing, ice climbing, alpine climbing. They are heavy, bulky and a bit noisy.

I am not familiar with the other two models. I have had a set of OR spandura gaiters. The stretchy low cut kind. I liked them for keeping crap out of my socks but not for much more. First lite makes something similar.

I think the best balance of function and weight is something like the kuiu gators.
 

kodiakfly

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I have the OR crocodile gaiters and although I haven't used them yet, I have a bad feeling about them. These things way alot. Just about as much as my boots. So, they seem a bit overkill from that standpoint. I am sure they will perform great in the sense of keeping water out and keeping you dry, but damn they feel heavy. Are gaiters usually this heavy?

What boots do you have that they weigh the same as Crocs? LOL I guess I don't consider them heavy, but I had a pair of Sitka gaiters before I sold them, and they felt about the same. Maybe Kuiu or Kenetreks are lighter, but gaiters are as much for abrasion and protection as they are water. I've run crampons through gaiters and had crampons deflect off OR Expeditions, where I think they may've snagged and/or penetrated a standard Croc or lesser gaiter.
 

AdamW

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Just got a pair of Crocs in the mail. I looked at the other models as well at REI a while back and the Crocs are definitely more durable feeling. I was on the fence between them and Kuiu but went with the Crocs based on Rokslide recommendations.

FYI Backcountry dot com has the best price on them currently that I've found. $55 with free shipping.

ETA: Sorry this is if you decide to go with something taller.
 
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Out of the models you listed I would stay away from the flex Tex II. I had the original flex Tex and they were by far the best and quietest low gaiter I have used. Got the flex Tex II when my original ones wore out and they just don't fit. Have some hard plastic piece to go over your foot and just makes them fit funny. Also much louder than originals. I have never used the other two on your list. I have the KUIU scree on order but am thinking they will be louder than I like. Might look into the Sitka also but they are a pain to take on and off with no zipper or Velcro. First lite has one too but unless your legs are like a little kids forget using them. I understand they are meant to go inside pants but I can't even get the largest size around my ankle.
 

jdmaxwell

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Wore the Crocs model for years in winter at work.. Great
Also have Vergala model for hunting.. lighter weight
 
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jm1607

jm1607

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Out of the models you listed I would stay away from the flex Tex II. I had the original flex Tex and they were by far the best and quietest low gaiter I have used. Got the flex Tex II when my original ones wore out and they just don't fit. Have some hard plastic piece to go over your foot and just makes them fit funny. Also much louder than originals. I have never used the other two on your list. I have the KUIU scree on order but am thinking they will be louder than I like. Might look into the Sitka also but they are a pain to take on and off with no zipper or Velcro. First lite has one too but unless your legs are like a little kids forget using them. I understand they are meant to go inside pants but I can't even get the largest size around my ankle.

Thanks for the heads up! I may try the Endurance then
 

Biggs300

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I have the OR Verglas in low cut model and the Cascadia in the taller model. I use the Verglas mostly for scouting and hiking and the Cascadia for hunting. I've had them both for over 6 years and they have held up very well. You probably already know this but, just a word of caution; make sure you consider the thickness of your pants (and boots) and buy accordingly. My Verglas only works with my hiking boots and light weight pants. Still, both are very solid gaiters.
 
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