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December 2018 Issue
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Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters

Price:

$119.99

Our Rating:

This is a hard-wearing gaiter designed to keep you dry and protected above the bushline. The three-layer Gore-Tex upper fabric provides lasting waterproofing and moderate breathability, while the Cordura inside leg patch can withstand crampons.

The Crocodile can be worn with tramping or mountaineering boots, thanks in part to an adjustable instep buckle. It has a sturdy metal lace hook, too.

The gaiter has a classic Velcro front opening, with a clever tab that folds back over to protect the bottom edge to prevent crusty snow from forcing the Velcro open.

The webbing and cam buckle top closure is sturdy and reliable but can have the effect of cutting off circulation and isn’t always effective at preventing the gaiters from slumping. I had to repeatedly tighten this to prevent them sliding down.

The gaiter’s instep straps are not replaceable. While they are hard-wearing, it means that when they inevitably give out the gaiters will no longer block snow and debris from being pushed up from underneath.

In summary:

The Good: All-season mountaineering gaiters at a good price, breathable, sturdy.

The Bad: Non-replaceable instep strap, prone to slipping off the calf.

Verdict: The Crocodiles are a durable all-season gaiter compromised somewhat by a couple of design flaws.