FAQ
To ensure a longer lifespan for your Tidy Gaiters, we recommend hand washing them with mild soap and warm water. Afterward, simply air dry your Tidy Gaiters.
If you choose to wash them in the washing machine, please keep a few things in mind. Wash them at 30°C, use gentle detergent, and avoid bleach. To prevent the front hook from tearing or damaging other laundry in the drum, be sure to pack your Tidy Gaiters in a separate laundry bag. Immediately after the wash cycle, air dry the Tidy Gaiters. If you like to iron, please refrain from doing so. But honestly, who irons their gaiters?
Or think of it this way: Tidy Gaiters are a tool for use. They tell a story. A little dirt reminds you of your adventures.
Tidy Gaiters sind eine Art Gamasche die Steinchen, Sand und andere Fremdkörper daran hindern in deinen Schuh einzudringen. Das hat viele Vorteile. Eine genaue Beschreibung unserer Tidy Gaiters inklusive aller tollen Vorteile die sie mit sich bringen, findest du in unserer Detailbeschreibung. Aber am besten du probierst es selbst aus und überzeugst dich von den vielen Vorteilen.
Our Tidy Gaiters work so well because they combine the best features. Weighing less than 40 grams per pair, they are incredibly lightweight. The application is a breeze. They are very elastic, breathable, and comfortable against the skin. The list goes on. The best way to convince yourself is to check our detailed description.
The main benefit of our Tidy Gaiters is to keep pebbles, sand, and many other foreign objects out of your shoes. They also look pretty cool, of course. But Tidy Gaiters are a true multitasker with many other advantages. You can find an overview in our detailed description. But the best way is to try them yourself and see the many benefits for yourself.
Actually, everyone who enjoys walking in nature needs our Tidy Gaiters. Because we all know the annoying and sometimes painful feeling of small stones, sand, and other foreign objects in our shoes. The list of possible uses is long, ranging from simple walks to trail runs and long thru hikes. You can find many other possible applications in our detailed description. Of course, you can also be creative. Our gaiters can be helpful in other sports and activities as well. And for a cool contrast, you could even wear them with a suit or dress. It’s best to try it out for yourself and find the suitable applications for you.
To use your shoes with Tidy Gaiters, you first need to prepare them. You need to attach a short self-adhesive Velcro strip to the heel of your shoes. Your Tidy Gaiters come with the necessary self-adhesive Velcro strip and a short instruction manual, so you can start the installation right away. It’s very easy to do.
On our instruction page, we have summarized everything for you. There, you will also find many other useful tips and tricks for attaching and using your new gaiters. So be sure to check it out.
Tidy Gaiters are designed to be easy to attach initially and also for daily use. Simply slip your feet into the gaiters, put on your shoes, and secure the Tidy Gaiters using the Velcro straps at the heels and the front hook on the shoelaces. You’re good to go. All our gaiters come with a short manual. Additionally, you can find a quick guide and a step-by-step instruction with many tips and tricks on our manual page. But the best way is to see for yourself how easy they are to use.
To put on your Tidy Gaiters, you should only wear your socks on your feet. With the socks on, slip into the gaiters, then put on your shoes and secure the Tidy Gaiters using the Velcro strips and front hook on the shoe. Otherwise, you risk damaging your gaiters. You can find detailed instructions on how to put on and use your Tidy Gaiters on our instruction page.
Tidy Gaiters are designed to literally make your outdoor adventures easier. Our gaiters are significantly lighter than conventional ones, as they eliminate a strap that runs under the sole of the shoe, which can be annoying when walking and prone to wear and tear. Typically, gaiters are made from heavy, durable materials, whereas Tidy Gaiters are elastic, soft, and comfortable against the skin while still being robust enough for most applications. While many conventional gaiters are waterproof, Tidy Gaiters are not waterproof but are particularly breathable.
In short, Tidy Gaiters differ mainly in their intended use compared to other gaiters. They fill a gap for when you don’t need specific gaiters like alpine, snow, or winter gaiters, or other heavy, durable, waterproof options.
Tidy Gaiters are not waterproof. They are breathable and quick-drying, so if they do get wet, they will dry quickly.
Basically, you can wear Tidy Gaiters whenever and wherever you want, including in the snow. If the snow isn’t too deep or powdery, Tidy Gaiters will help prevent snow from getting into your shoes. However, if the snow is too deep or soft, it’s possible for snow to enter your shoes, as the gaiters may shift upward or come loose while sinking. It’s best to try them out yourself and find the uses that work best for you.
One of the advantages of Tidy Gaiters lies in their material. They are lightweight, elastic, soft, comfortable on the skin, and particularly breathable. This is achieved through the use of 15% elastane and 85% polyester.
The name “Tidy Gear” is more than just a brand name—it tells a story and reflects a philosophy. During his hike on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2017, Dominik, the man behind Tidy Gear, was given the trail name “Mr. Tidy.” He became known for his meticulous care and organization of his gear, as well as for his structured and methodical approach to long-distance hiking. This nickname serves as our inspiration: Tidy Gear is about neat and practical equipment that adds value to your adventures and helps you go further.
But feel free to check out our About page for more background information about our small brand.
Tidy Gaiters work with a wide range of shoes. Almost any trail, hiking, running, or everyday shoe is compatible with Tidy Gaiters. Since the gaiters fit just above the ankle, they are designed for use with mid-height shoes. The functionality can only be guaranteed if the gaiters can fit snugly on the leg above the shoe shaft. Therefore, the shafts of hiking or other boots are usually too high. Depending on the model, mid-height shoes may be suitable in some cases.
Tidy Gaiters can be used with most low-cut shoes. Almost any trail, hiking, running, or everyday shoe is compatible with Tidy Gaiters. It is important that the gaiter can fit just above the ankle. Tidy Gaiters are designed to be used with nearly all mid-height shoes.
“Made By Tidy” is an exclusive product line from Tidy Gear. Under this name, all products that are 100% handcrafted by Dominik, also known as Mr. Tidy, are offered. Genuine handcrafted items made in our workshop on the outskirts of the Austrian Alps.
The name of this product line is a reference to two important elements that all of its products embody. First, it highlights the fact that all these products are handcrafted with great attention to detail. Second, it refers to the past and experience of the man who designs, manufactures, and sells these products. During his hike on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2017, Dominik, the man behind the brand, received the trail name “Mr. Tidy.” “Tidy,” the short form of this trail name, has since become Dominik’s alias on all his adventures.
The products from the “Made By Tidy” series are suitable for anyone who values good, ultralight, functional, and reliable gear. They are for those who do not seek off-the-shelf products and appreciate handcrafted items. The uses are diverse, whether for simple walks, extended hikes, thru-hikes, or daily life in the city. They are simply ultralight equipment, perfectly tailored for all your adventures. We also use “Made By Tidy” products on our own adventures, regardless of whether they are small or large.
We focus on balanced solutions that have proven effective in practice. One thing all our materials have in common is that they are robust yet very lightweight, ensuring maximum durability and comfort. All materials are of high quality and have been tested in the outdoor scene. We source the materials for our “Made By Tidy” products from European suppliers.
When choosing raw materials, we place great importance on functionality and durability. Yes, we love lightweight equipment, but not at any cost. We want everyone to be able to afford our products. That’s why “Made By Tidy” products are not necessarily available in all the latest, very expensive “trend materials.” We focus on balanced solutions that have proven effective in practice—ultralight yet still affordable. Reasonable prices without compromising on quality.
In principle, we do not take custom orders. Tidy Gear operates as a one-man business on the side, and the effort required would simply be too great. You can find what you see on the website. If a product is out of stock or if you prefer a color combination from existing product lines, we may be able to create or realize that for you. It’s best to contact us directly, and I will do my best to meet your requests.
Yes, all products from the “Made By Tidy” series are 100% handcrafted by Dominik, also known as Mr. Tidy.
Yes, our Tidy Gaiters also work with the “Gaiter Traps” from the shoe brand Altra® and other manufacturers (provided that there is a hook-and-loop fastener on the heel).
If the heel area of the shoe does not allow for the horizontal attachment of a 5 x 2 cm Velcro strip, you can also attach it vertically or trim it to a suitable size.
On uneven surfaces like porous mesh, the self-adhesive Velcro strip does not adhere properly. In many cases, using super glue can help. Additionally, trimming the Velcro strip to fit or positioning it higher or lower may also be effective.
For optimal adhesive properties of the Velcro strips in the heel area, the shoes used should be new or at least as clean as possible. If necessary, thoroughly clean the surface of the shoes with soap, water, and alcohol wipes before attaching the self-adhesive Velcro strips. Then, allow the surface to dry completely.
Tidy Gaiters trail gaiters are suitable for nearly all hiking trails. They are particularly well-suited for well-known and major trails such as:
Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Camino de Santiago, Te Araroa, Bibbulmun Track, Great Divide Trail, Israel National Trail, Via Alpina, West Highland Way, John Muir Trail, Tour du Mont Blanc, Overland Track, Kungsleden, Annapurna Circuit, Laugavegur Trail, Lycian Way, GR20, Pennine Way, Bruce Trail, Eifelsteig, Malerweg, Westweg, Fisherman’s Trail, Rheinsteig, Lechweg, Rota Vicentina, Alpe Adria Trail, Hermannsweg, Harzer-Hexen-Stieg, Schluchtensteig, Stubaier Höhenweg, etc.
Our Tidy Gaiters trail gaiters are an evolution of the popular gaiter style from the US brand Dirty Girl Gaiters. Tidy Gaiters are a European alternative to Dirty Girl Gaiters. Tidy Gaiters surpass the original in terms of details, included features, and design exclusivity.
Additionally, Tidy Gaiters are lightweight and affordable to purchase in the EU. No imports, no high customs fees, and no long waiting times.
