Walking in a kilt.

[James]

As this is slightly off the previous messages on this subject-I'm starting a variant. Based on some slight European experience-from the warm south to the cold - of northern Sweden-with a few mountains in between. Further in situations where it has been necessary to keep walking regardless of the rain-snow.

If it is intended to do much walking/backpacking in a traditional/hillwalker kilt: it is well worth having it made shorter than usual-say an inch above the top of the knee cap-or shorter.

This tends to flick the water away when it is raining-too there is less battering of the legs/knees with a water/ice laden hem: something which can over a few days cause phlebitis & chaffing.

Having said that a kilt is much preferable to either trousers or breeches-and certainly better then wearing waterproof overtrousers.

On a lighter note, it is not always quite so suitable for the post river crossing lying on back with legs in air, to drain off excess water from the boots.

Whilst for anyone worried that a few days/weeks even rain will harm their kilt-not at all, it was designed for that sort of use and weather.

James

[Graham]

I agree James, there is no question that the kilt is the finest garment for hiking - barr none.

[Southern Breeze]

I'll second the fact that there's nothing better for hiking.
The Jacks River trail in the Cohutta Wilderness gives a whole new meaning to river crossings. The trail is nearly 17 miles long and crosses the river 43 times.

[GMan]

James, as usual another wise post.

Someone asked me once why I wear a Kilt while it is either raining or snowing. Before I could come back with my reply a friend mentioned that sheep stay out in that type of weather and do not get ruined, so why would a Kilt? Of couse that argument only works with wool Kilts.