Yeah. Joan loves the system for her. Be a boring old world if all did and liked the same thing.

I reserve long gaiters lately for deep winter – where they’re essential, if only to avoid fouling a crampon point in a trouser leg. I might bring them also for the worst bush bashes – where I know that I’m going to have the viburnum grabbing at my ankles, to say nothing of the nettles and blackberries! My usual nylon hiking pants would turn to trail confetti, and that leaves a trace. Otherwise, I’m mostly with you on wearing long pants.

I see all sorts of quirky systems on experienced hikers, and the systems work for them. Just Bill hikes in his kilt in all kinds of weather. Not for me, thanks!