16oz verses 13oz kilt material

[sevenoaks]

I just sent an order to Heritage Of Scotland. I was wondering now if I should have ordered a 13oz kilt rather than a 16 oz.
Any thoughts on this will be appreciated as I may have time to change the order.

[ForresterModern]

Some tartans are only available in either 13 or 16 oz material, others in both but possibly from different mills. Although most would agree that 16 oz is generally preferred for kiltmaking, save those situations where 13 might be more comfortable, what is probably more important is making sure the tartan looks like you want it to, i.e., it's color panel is what you were expecting, as different mills, and even the same tartan in different weights from the same mill sometimes, can have a significantly different appearence. All things being equal otherwise. I think most would fall toward the 16 oz weight tartan in general, unless you had a specific reason for a lighter wieght, such as extremely hot/humid climate, dancer's weight costume, etc......

Just one man's O.

[davidlpope]

I just sent an order to Heritage Of Scotland. I was wondering now if I should have ordered a 13oz kilt rather than a 16 oz.
Any thoughts on this will be appreciated as I may have time to change the order.

Don't fret. I can think of no situation where, given the chance, i would choose 13oz. fabric over 16oz. fabric all other things being equal.

[mookien]

I don't think you should opt for 13 oz. cloth unless you have a specific reason known and meaningful to you, eg less cost, prefer a lighter-weight kilt, like the look of the light-weight tartan (as ForresterModern suggests) assuming a significant difference exists, etc. Just stick with 16 oz. and be happy! ;)

[Duke of Delrio]

I have never regretted "going heavy", but I have regretted going lighter, many times.

[English Bloke]

I own both 16 and 13oz Kilts (and also a couple of 15oz Kilts) I prefer the heavier weight, if only because it is less inclined to lift in a breeze. Other than that, either is good.


13oz Randonnée Bretonne (Brittany Walking) Tartan, fluttering in the breeze.


16oz Bruce Modern. Not fluttering in the slightest.

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

The heavier the fabric, the better the kilt "hangs". If you are concerned that it may be too warm, instruct your kilt maker to use less yardage.

[billmcc]

Sevenoaks,

Where do you live? Wearing a full (8 yard) 16 oz. kilt in places like the southern US is very uncomfortable due to the heat. A heavyweight kilt is a good choice in the northern US states, Canada and most European countries.

[MacMillans son]

Sevenoaks,

Where do you live? Wearing a full (8 yard) 16 oz. kilt in places like the southern US is very uncomfortable due to the heat. A heavyweight kilt is a good choice in the northern US states, Canada and most European countries.

I think this a subjective experience. I live in a part of California where temps reach over 100F for many days throughout the summer. For me, there is no discernable comfort difference between an 8 yard 16 oz and 8 yard 13oz kilt. For me, the traditional kilt hose is what causes the most heat related discomfort. But again, that is my subjective experience.

If all else is equal (color, quality, availability) I always choose 16oz over 13oz.

[Ancienne Alliance]

The heavier the fabric, the better the kilt "hangs". If you are concerned that it may be too warm, instruct your kilt maker to use less yardage.

Excellent answer !


Best,

Robert