Gaiters should be layered over pants for best protection. Placing pant legs under gaiters reduces the likelihood of trail debris, vegetation (pine needles and sticky plants), snow, or insects from irritating the lower leg and ankle. The intent of a gaiter is to cover the gap between the shoe and pant leg. Gaiters can also be paired with leggings, shorts, and high socks depending on user preference. The exception to this is pouring down rain. You can wear your gaiters underneath waterproof pants to create dual-protection with less chance of water seeping through your gaiter and sliding down your pants, into your shoe.