I have noticed a few threads popping up over the last few months asking about "knockabout" kilts and which one the poster should buy to fit his or her needs and preferences. This thread is not intended to answer that question, since I am not qualified to compare the merits of the different makers or material available. I simply would like to provide a good accounting of my USAK PV casual and hope it can help inform potential buyers about one of their many options. If anyone wishes to add their experiences with a USAK casual, positive or negative, please jump in!

It will be pretty evident that I like this kilt, but I'll try to stick to facts...

For about $130 (US) shipped, I received a kilt which was custom-built (waist, hips, length) from about 87 available tartans. The fabric is teflon coated to repel stains and the pleats are specially constructed to retain their shape and sharpness. I ordered mine in August and have put it through its paces over the last few months, assaulting it by sea, air and land:








The two sturdy velcro straps that secure the kilt about my waist have held up through four races and just as many machine washes (don't use fabric softener!) In spite of all the mud and rough treatment there are still no stains or tears or problems with the pleating. It still looks great for wearing to the pub, although I wouldn't pair it with a kilt jacket (mostly because I had it cut to fit at my "jeans waist" rather than my true waist). The PV is fairly light and breathable and dries quickly, but does take on some weight when it's wet. That being said, I never felt it was in danger of slipping down or being pulled off.

Here it is two days ago, right out of the suitcase, fresh from a romp down in Cabo San Lucas:



I did discover one shortcoming while in Mexico: while the fabric does a fine job repelling seawater and tequila, swimming trunks are a much better choice if one wishes to brave the surf. Seems pretty obvious, but I had to try...

Again, feel free to add or ask anything!

Tyler