Gaiters, when they come in handy, they come in real handy. Some conditions simply demand them, and having a solid pair can make the difference between soggy, cold, blistery feet, and an enjoyable backcountry scamper. The Super Armadillo Nano Gaiters from Hillsound attempt to be a single pair of gaiters for every occasion, but can it be done?
The Nano Gaiters are light weight, weighing only 342 grams (12 ounces) per pair (medium). They’re built from tough Schoeller fabrics, which remind me a bit of a tough Cordura material. Sections of the material near the ankle have tough raised plates reminiscent of osteoderms of alligators on the surface which provide abrasion and cut resistance. The upper materials are more of a flexible, coated nylon like Schoeller C fabric, with NanoSphere for water resistance. Finally, a vertical zip, and adjustable loops secure the gaiters in place under the boot and around the calf. Retail is $98.
What I liked
These gaiters are built tough. They’re designed to protect you, and protect they do. Every line, stitch, and sliver of material feels like something pulled from piece of military equipment. The “SuperFabric” feel laced with plates of armor, resisting the scrapes of rocks, ice, trekking poles and crampons while hiking. The coated, yet surprisingly breathable upper material never let in snow, dirt, mud or water, even when hiking for hours during a downpour through ankle deep cascades of water down a flooding trail in the Shinning Rock Wilderness.
They’re light weight and fit really well, a combination that results in the sensation that you’re not even wearing them. You will forget that you have them on. They strap on tight, and have yet to slip or shift, retaining their desired position even after extended backpacking trips.
They’re simple to put on and take off. Simply drop in your heel, zip up, and cinch down the two tensioners and you’re ready to go. After getting them caked with mud, a simple rinse cleans them up with no chemicals needed.
What I didn’t like
You get what you pay for, and this is a premium set of gaiters. $98 is a little bit on the high-end of the spectrum.
Who names these things? It’s a mouthful to get out, and leaves many people confused as to exactly what you’re trying to communicate when talking about them.
Overall
The Nano Gaiters from HIllsound represents some of the best in the industry. They’re light weight, comfortable, and built to take many miles of abuse. If you need serious protection, and don’t mind the cost, these are serious gaiters for serious trekkers. They’ll keep your feet dry, and your boots debris free.
Highly Recommended.
A huge thanks to Hillsound for providing such excellent gear. Our full disclosure can be found on our About Me/Contact page.
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