Details
Brand
Salomon
Model
Low Trail Gaiters
Use
Racing
Key Features
• Black or red color options• Elastic jersey material• 121 grams• Adjustable Velcro strap for precise sizing• Three sizing options• Padding around the ankle for added support
Comfort
One of the elements that runners continuously commented on is the overall comfort of this gaiter. The elastic jersey mesh material stretches with the movement of the runner and is able to provide a snug, yet flexible fit. They slide easily over the shoe, whether it is a bigger hiking boot or a sleek running shoe. The snugness can be adjusted using a Velcro strap along the top of the gaiter to create the perfect fit for runners. Additionally, these gaiters come with additional padding around the ankle bone to keep runners comfortable and provide additional support on a more treacherous terrain.
Size
These gaiters are offered in three sizes based on the shoe size. These gaiters come with three different sizing options. They can be purchased for shoe sizes 4.5 – 7, 7.5 – 9, or 9.5 -12. The size can also be adjusted using the top Velcro strap to customize the fit for the unique needs of the runner. Some runners commented that the strap that loops along the bottom of the shoe could be cumbersome and interfere with traction on the trails, while other runners didn’t seem to have a problem with this design element.
Accessories
The product is a fairly straightforward product, and for that reason, it doesn’t come with a lot of additional accessories. Runners can expect to find a fit that slides over the shoe and can be tightened or loosened using a Velcro strap and can be adjusted across the top of the shoe.
Use
These low trail gaiters are designed to keep runners safe and protected against a plethora of dangerous and annoying debris that can be found on the trail. These running accessories are not suggested for normal day to day to road running, and instead should be reserved for the more aggressive trail runs and races. Salomon says that these gaiters do a great job of protecting the runner from any loose debris from entering the shoes or harming the ankle. Runners found these gaiters useful while tackling less groomed trails where thorns or vines could hurt the exposed ankle. They also found them useful while running on trails with unpacked gravel. Not only do they protect the ankles from loose gravel, but they do a great job of ensuring that no debris can enter the shoe and cause distraction or pain during the run or hike.
Style
Gaiters are not known for adding a ton of style to any runner’s look. They have a unique look that is a part sock, part turtleneck for your shoes. It creates an exaggerated high-top sort of look on any pair of shoes. Runners generally use gaiters for their function and less so for their stylish attributes. The Salomon Low Trail Gaiter can be purchased in the runner’s choice of black or red.
Durability
This gaiter uses an elastic jersey material. While this material is great at providing breathability and flexibility to the runner and it does a great job of keeping out a variety of different debris from the entering the shoe, some runners commented that this elastic jersey material too easily wore down. Some commented that it easily ripped and tore while running through ungroomed areas, so runners suggested these gaiters for runs that won’t bring them through the unruly brush.
Breathability
One of the common concerns with finding a good gaiter for the trails is that many brands struggle to be breathable and simultaneously protective. The Salomon low trail Gaiter is able to provide runners with a gaiter that is both breathable and highly protective. This gaiter uses an elastic jersey material that stretches and moves with the natural movement of the runner, but it is also tough enough to keep even the smallest debris from entering the shoe. The high level of breathability can also be attributed to the lightweight feel of this gaiter. It weighs in at a mere 121 grams.
Price
This gaiter is very affordable and comes in right in the center of the pack in terms of average cost for gaiters. However, some runners did comment that the durability is not as high as they would like, which caused them to question the higher price tag. Overall, this is a good price for the quality of this product.
Bottom Line
Salomon’s low trail gaiters are a great accessory for runners who are looking for protection and comfort while on their more aggressive trail runs or races. These gaiters are made from a flexible material that is both breathable and comfortable but also does a great job of deflecting harmful and annoying debris that can be found on the trail. Runners raved about the overall comfort of these gaiters and were very pleased with how easily they came on and off and how secure they stayed during the run. The price of these gaiters in more than reasonable but runners reported that they wished this product would have lasted longer and been less prone to punctures and tears. Overall, runners were pleased with this product and found the fit to be the key feature that made these as useful as they were.
