Deciding between SWK Wool and Rocky's Semi-Trad

[liammaclean]

Hello all! I'm trying to revamp my wardrobe and am looking to get a new kilt. I think I've narrowed it down a bit to either a semi-trad USA kilt or an SWK Wool heavy weight.

I own a 2 contemporary kilts from Tartanista, 1 acrylic from SWK and 1 casual from USAK, so that makes me lean toward wool since I haven't experienced it yet.

I live in Boston so I figure 8 yard wool would be pretty warm. How does it compare to the semi trad pv warmth wise?

My last consideration is wear and tear. I have really liked my pv because of how stain resistant it is. My understanding is that wool is more of an investment to take care of and keep clean. Ideally this kilt wouldn't be a purely formal one, I'd like something I could wear to work (in an office).

Thanks in advance for the help!

[FossilHunter]

I think the semi traditional is a great “cheap” kilt. Nothing like a fitted garment. The fabric is also pretty tough and machine washable.

It is not as warm as wool but I haven’t found that to be an issue.

I think it’s fine for formal. I don’t think 90% of folks would know the difference. If you look at panache’s photos, I believe most of his kilts are USAK semi trads and he wears them for everything.

[Tomak]

I own a both a semi-trad and an 8 yard wool kilt from USA Kilts. Both are great. The wool is certainly warmer, but the semi-trad ends up getting worn more. It looks good and is very durable. It all boils down to what you want. Since you have PV kilts already, the wool would be a great addition, but as you say, additional care and feeding are required. Good Luck.

[Liam]

My advice is to save up your sheckles and order a custom made wool kilt.

[Gryphon noir]

The one advantage of ordering from USA Kilts is that you are not buying an off-the-rack generic kilt. If you give him the correct measurements, Rocky will make you a bespoke kilt--fitted to you, not some average person of similar dimensions.

Both products are considered to be of acceptable quality, though I would go for wool every time. In fact, I have eliminated all non-wool kilts from my collection. My experience is that USA Kilts does an excellent job every time, and I haven't heard any complaints about quality or service.