Newly Kilted - with questions

**DharmaOne** · 13th July 05, 10:15 AM

Hi all,

Just got my first kilt (at 42) and can not believe what I have been missing. I told a few friends if they tried one, they'd curse the day man first put on pants.

I bought a Sport Kilt (sale item) to test the waters. I know it's not even close to traditional and way too light to wear outside, but for working around the house and in this 90+ weather, it is fantastic.

(Did the Scotts invent velcro?)

I next bought (within a week) a cheapo ebay item more traditional. Not a bad item for the price ($30) but I have a few questions about future kilt purchases.

This ebay type one seems to wear very heavy on the hips/waist. There seems to be a lot of material around the waistline. I know the two kilts (this and the Sport kilt) are two different animals, but I am not sure about wearing something like that all day.

I want to pick up a Stillwater and UK (or PK) soon. But I am wondering how they wear. I think it's more a design issue with the one I have, but just curious.

thanks,
-Fitz

**davedove** · 13th July 05, 10:32 AM

First of all, Welcome aboard! I've only been wearing my kilts for a few months and I'm 44.

I've got three Stillwaters that I wear, and I think they're really nice, especially for the price. I don't have a traditional yet, so I can't make any comparisons to that, nor do I have a Sportkilt.

The Stillwater kilts are really good for the person wanting a traditional look for a low price, and also a quick delivery. Someone who is knowledgable will be able to tell the difference, but most people can't. They can be a bit warm at higher temperatures, but they are pretty comfortable to wear. I've worn mine for hiking, festivals, and even to the office a few times.

**jjoseph** · 13th July 05, 10:43 AM

heya, mate. Welcome to kilted chaos.

The stillwaters have served me well... I have an economy (don't bother), a standard (great value for the $$), and a heavyweight on order as well as a UK. The guys here are right: the Stillw. is a great intro kilt. and a good bargain. Don't get their eco. though. and remember that the Still is worn at the navel/waist rather than at the jeans beltline like the sports/UK kilts. When worn high it's hella, more comfy and looks better to boot.

Check the reviews on the list for different kilts. There are quite a few favorites here; some fairly quick to come by and some that seem to take a while and a host of price ranges and materials. Lots of good info.

be well, be cool, have fun,
Scotty

**Big Paul** · 13th July 05, 03:11 PM

Welcome to our addiction.

**Jimmy Carbomb** · 13th July 05, 04:09 PM

Fitz, welcome to the board.

The Pittsburgh Kilt is a wonderful way to be introduced into kilts, and have something that's EXACTLY what you're looking for. Jeff will take your preferences in color, pockets, or whatever else... and make them with GREAT quality.

For the regular-wearing kilt, I can HIGHLY recommend the StillWater Kilts' "Standard" and "Heavy" editions. They are without-a-doubt the best buy in kilts. The price is well worth the limited tartans.

Utilikilts are unbelievably rugged in their construction, and are accepted in MANY different environments. The bikers, pubbers, festivals and everydayers are well-aware of the things... and like them. Besides their acceptance, they're also very useful to wear! The "Workman's" are unreal in their strength and uses.

You can also request a kilt in the Swap section. Place your waist, hips and preferred length measurements there, and your preferences in material. I've unloaded more than a dozen kilts on this site... all for free. You just never know!;)

**GMan** · 13th July 05, 10:39 AM

Fitz,

WELCOME!!!!!!

I am glad that you have found the freedom that kilts affords all of mankind. As far as your next purchase, it boils down to what you are looking for at this time. If you want a tartan I would suggest USA Kilts or Bear Kilts (even though Bear is rather booked up right now with orders), both are excellent. They both give three measurements (hips, waist, and length) for a better fit, and that is really the way to get a sharp looking kilt.

I do not have a PK yet, but I can gather from the guys here on the board that they are wonderful, and since I do trust them I say go for the PK. Utilikilt is nice, a very utilitarian garment. I like mine, but remember if you have a larger, how do I say it, sitting area, you may want to put that into consideration when you measure for your UK. Call them or e-mail them for information, they are nice people.

Stillwaters are good if you do NOT get the economy, they do have limited tartans, which can be a drawback.

Again welcome to this band of crazy misbehavin' kilted and kilt loving people!

**davedove** · 13th July 05, 10:43 AM

Originally Posted by GMan

Stillwaters are good if you do NOT get the economy, they do have limited tartans, which can be a drawback.

You're right Glen. I've also got a Stillwater economy and I don't even include it in the number of kilts I own, because I only wear it around the house. I would recommend against the economy.

**royce52** · 13th July 05, 04:51 PM

I can't offer an opinion on any of the ones you mentioned. Mine is a regular heavy wool traditional from Celtic Crafts in Edinbourgh. But yes,,there is a fair about of material in the wasit area. It's mostly the top end of the pleats. Remeber, we are talking about 8-9 yards of wool,,,pleated down to 30 somthing inches. It has to go somewhere. But It's not that uncomfortable. A kilt should be pulled up much higher than pants are worn,,right up under my ribs,

As to comfort in a hot climate,,,or biggest festival is the Texas Scottish Festival the first weekend in June,,,I have never felt too hot,,from the waist down..the top half of me is another question,,particutaly if I stay out in the sun too much...;-) ;)

Originally Posted by DharmaOne

Hi all,

This ebay type one seems to wear very heavy on the hips/waist. There seems to be a lot of material around the waistline. I know the two kilts (this and the Sport kilt) are two different animals, but I am not sure about wearing something like that all day.

thanks,
-Fitz

**Rob Wright** · 14th July 05, 10:06 AM

Welcome to the board. I want to second Jimmy in recommending Jeff at Pittsburgh Kilts. Can't go wrong.

Rob

**Kirkwood** · 14th July 05, 08:50 PM

Greetings and salutations, Fitz.
I just received my first Stillwater yesterday and it will not be my last. It truly is an excellent product. Delivery time on it was impressive as well.