Gaiters for a desert race are an essential item. Quite simply, sand and feet are NOT friends. So, you need to do everything you possibly can to keep sand out of your shoes and keep your feet healthy and trouble free.
In 2024, Raidlight, the legendary French brand released the first mass produced desert specific shoe supplied with velcro sewn on and gaiter provided. I have tested them extensively and they are a great option if you want a one-stop and no hassle solution, my review is HERE – Raidlight Ultra Desert 4 Protect Shoe Review
However, many of you (most of you) will be using your favourite run shoe and will need velcro sewn to your shoe. Let’s get one thing clear, do not ask, “What shoe shall I use?” We are all individuals with different body weights, gaits, needs and speed. Shoes are very specific to the person. Read an article HERE How to Find Your Running Shoe Size and Fit.
Every year, the same question gets asked, “Where can I get my gaiters attached to my run shoes?”
Main gaiters brands:
So here is a list of current resources, this list will be added to as more names/ contacts become available.
UK
Kevin Bradley is the man. He has been sewing gaiters on shoes for years. He has probably done 1000’s. Very experienced and he knows his stuff. Alex Shoe Repair, 103c Lavender Hill, London, SW11 – Telephone +44 207 2223 4931
Strand Cobblers, 9 Imperial Way, Exmouth, Devon, EX8 1BY.
FRANCE
Raidlight have extended its desert racing expertise by now offering the installation of desert gaiters. More information via the website HERE
USA
Jay Batchen was the US agent for many years and his strong recommendation is with Chuva Shoe Repair in NYC (212-924-7199)
Other USA participants have also recommended, Kosta Koutsimanis Norwalk Shoe Repair, Connecticut.
Drago Shoe Repair (Pinel), 2 Charlton St, New York, NY 10014, (6th and Prince)
NETHERLANDS
Schoenmakerij P Heubel, Rechstraat 45, 6221 EG, Maastricht, Nederland
Also, Trailrunstore.com is recommended in Zoetermeer.
BELGIUM
Perfecta Kortrijksepoortstraat in Ghent.
Runners’ Lab three stores: Zaventem, Belgium · +32 2 310 90 74 / Zwijndrecht, Belgium · +32 3 775 22 13 and Ghent, Belgium · +32 9 229 19 55
READ MDS The Ultimate Guide – 2024 Edition HERE
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IAN CORLESS 
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