Have you ever unexpectedly come across a patch of loose gravel or sand on the trail? It can be frustrating trying to keep bits out of your boots, when you didn't bring gaiters along. The next time this happens, consider improvising and making gaiters of your own! Take a pair of old work socks, and cut the foot off. Wrap the remaining tube around the top of your hiking boots and up your leg as a makeshift gaiter. This will prevent (a) stones or sand from entering your boot, (b) blisters that invariably accompany these traitor pebbles, and (c) insanity, which result from repeatedly stopping to shake out your boots every five minutes, or from attempting to ignore the sharp or gritty invaders for miles on end.