Originally Posted by
Traveler
If there's a doubt, there is no doubt. If the snake gaiters don't interfere and provide a level of protection that eases concern I would wear them.
I have on several occasions run into timber rattlesnakes in southern New England along fairly well maintained trails. Specifically along the AT and Taconic trails you can fairly easily find snakes coiled up under huckleberry and other low brush just off the side of the trail as they maintain their temperatures during the day. Fortunately they usually rattle and give themselves away, but they are remarkably well camouflaged even when looking for them as they rattle.
I have a set of snake gaiters I use in these areas during the summer months along with watersheds and unimproved easements in the southeastern US. Though I have never been struck, several people I have worked with over the years have. You won't find better advertising for snake gaiters than these folks. For me, the peace of mind the gaiters provide is worth the cost.