There are 20 different species of venomous snakes in the United States and each year an estimated 8,000 people are bitten. While the number of deaths can be counted on one hand, why risk it? Snake protection is incredibly important for fieldwork or any activity that takes you into the backcountry – whether it be hunting, hiking, or simply walking off the beaten path.
If you are heading into the wilderness, let's assume you already have a sturdy pair of hiking boots. While these are great at providing all-day comfort, keeping your feet dry, and offering basic protection against biting insects (like ticks), even the sturdiest boots may not withstand the fangs of a venomous snake.
That is where snake gaiters come in.
Snake gaiters are designed to maximize your level of protection against the elements and other hazards likely to be encountered in the wild. They cover the tops of your footwear and offer an added layer of protection against snakes, biting insects, water, and weather.
Historically speaking, snake gaiters have been a trade-off – fulfilling their task of protecting against snake venom but at the cost of comfort. With brands like Turtleskin, Crackshot Corporation, and Bell Ranger using lightweight and comfortable materials, however, that is changing.
There are three primary options when it comes to snake protection: gaiters, leggings, and chaps .
For snake protection, gaiters are the classic choice, fitting over your footwear with a strap that runs underneath to keep them in place. Leggings wrap around the lower leg and can be tightened with a system of straps and buckles; they cover a little more than classic gaiters but are still comfortable to wear. Chaps offer the maximum degree of protection because they cover the entire leg.
With an abundance of options to choose from, consider the following:
Sizing & Materials
Different types of snake protection have different types of sizing:
For casual use, lightweight materials like soft-shell fabrics and coated nylon work best. For hiking, hunting, and climbing, consider something stronger that offers abrasion resistance and at least some degree of moisture protection, such as Cordura nylon. For the maximum degree of protection, look for something waterproof and windproof that is still breathable and comfortable, like Gore-Tex.
Our Recommended Snake Gaiters, Leggings & Chaps
Taking into account quality, comfort, value, and versatility, below is a list of our favorite snake gaiters, leggings, and chaps on the market:
Going on a hunting trip? Protect your dog with Turtleskin's SnakeArmor Vest and Neck Protection.
Though the odds that you will encounter a venomous snake in the wilderness are low (and your odds of being bitten even lower), it is better to be safe than sorry. If you are heading out into the woods or brush, make sure you protect yourself with a high-quality set of snake gaiters, leggings, or chaps.
