A traditional gaiter is commonly used to keep snow from getting into your boots and pants. A lot of mountaineering boot manufacturers nowadays have begun integrating gaiters into their boot designs to help make things easier when you’re in the outdoors.
An integrated gaiter on a boot does give you a few benefits. First, it will help cut back on the weight of the items you bring and need to carry. Also, having integrated gaiters on mountaineering boots usually makes these boots very warm.
What’s even better about the new technology of an integrated gaiter in mountaineering boots is how integrated gaiters can help make even lightweight boots (traditionally these boots had more difficulty retaining warmth) keep your feet warm.
Having an integrated gaiter in your mountaineering boots is obviously a nice addition to have, but it isn’t a necessity. Again, this will depend on your budget, and whether you plan on mountaineering during very cold conditions.