Assaulting my kilt

[LitTrog]

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

[Mickey]

Outstanding review, and cool pics too... Pookey...

[thescot]

Interesting. And I'm glad you addressed me thoughts at the end. I was thinking, "Wouldn't trunks/shorts be better for all that?"

Even the regiments stopped wearing kilts for such things just as WWII began.

[LitTrog]

I would just like to add that I hope my use of the kilt in this manner doesn't offend anyone. It stems from a genuine respect for my heritage and a desire to show a wider audience the versatility, durability and masculinity of this wonderful garment. Some folks at these races play dress-up and run in fun "costumey" apparel. I do not. I even think, because of Rocky's thoughtful and well-designed Law Enforcement Memorial tartan, he may have a few Vancouver, WA police officers ordering their own by next summer. Fingers crossed!

[Rab]

nice work, running in kilts is the future

[Spartan Tartan]

Great review...Pookey I too have a USAK casual. Although I have not put it thru the same paces as you, I do like seeing the durability. I would absolutely suggest this style of kilt for a "knock about" model. Great pictures.

[Tartan Tess]

We call them "stunt" kilts around here.
I hope the company see's these pictures. what a great ad!

[GMan]

Great review and pictures to boot.

[thescot]

I would just like to add that I hope my use of the kilt in this manner doesn't offend anyone. It stems from a genuine respect for my heritage and a desire to show a wider audience the versatility, durability and masculinity of this wonderful garment. Some folks at these races play dress-up and run in fun "costumey" apparel. I do not. I even think, because of Rocky's thoughtful and well-designed Law Enforcement Memorial tartan, he may have a few Vancouver, WA police officers ordering their own by next summer. Fingers crossed!

Gosh, I can't imagine anyone being offended. Have you seen the WW I photos of the regiments in the trenches? Heck, I was impressed by youir kilt and your prowess wearing it. although you really aren't my type (if you know what I mean.)

And I have to say, that your demonstration is a clear inidcation of the wearability and durablility of that kilt. Good show.

[Whidbey78]

I have a couple of USAK casuals that I bought over a year ago. They each get worn one or two days a week. Neither of them have ever been pushed to that level of adventure, but I don't hesitate to wear them out into the boonies on hikes, geocaching, camping, fishing, 3D shoots, etc. etc.

When the terrain is going to be really rough I usually wear a poly-cotton kilt of my own making. It's not because the USAK can't hack it but because, when the likelihood of real damage reaches a certain level, I'd rather risk the well-being of a $20 garment than the $120 one.

Nice pics BTW.