Get Your Butt in Gear: Ventigaiters

Spring is about warmer weather, buds growing, and flowers blooming. Well, not quite yet. First comes the rain and when it rains, that means mud.

Don't let a little mud prevent you from taking that first spring hike you've been looking forward to all winter. All you need is a rain jacket, some waterproof trail shoes like these from Keen, and something to protect your lower legs from getting wet and dirty.

What you need are these Nut Shell Ventigaiters from Mountain Hardwear. They do an awesome job of keeping the mud, rocks, and wetness from getting into your shoes. If you get hot, these gaiters also have an optional roll back mesh lining near your calf that can be opened to let your legs "breathe."

These are also made for women, so they'll fit you better than other unisex gaiters. For $29.95, they're cheaper than most too.