Distinctives?

[Jimmy Carbomb]

~USA Victory Kilt vs
~'Classic' Cut 4 yard PV Bear Kilt in Warrior tartan vs
~Two-Tone Pittsburgh Kilt vs
~Original Utilikilt

Here's my personal take on the kilts and the companies.

IF you're going to go through USAKilts, they have the absolute best value in kilts available... with the Philabegs. Not only are they a GREAT starter kilt, but the bang for the buck is unbeatable. Maintenance is very low. Cost under $150

IF you're going with a 4-yard casual with a more modern look, then BearKilts are the best. I have two of the Grizzly-cut kilts and they're absolutely beautiful. The fit and feel is so comfortable that you forget that they're on. Warrior tartan is a nice choice. Cost under $150

IF you're looking for a solid and more standard looking kilt, then your choice in Pittsburgh kilts is right on. Jeff has some VERY soft fabrics, and will custom make the thing to YOUR specs. They are made very sturdy, and will last a long time. Cost around $150 (depending on add-ons)

IF you're looking for a very modern kilt that will last through a hurricane... then the UtilliKilt is a good choice. The design is innovative, and the pockets make it so that you don't need a sporran. Their product reputation is generally good. Cost around $150 (depending on model)

IF you're looking for an authentic Traditional hand-sewn... then there are sources of rental shops and resellers that will get them to you for around $250. Traditionally sewn, tightly pleated, heavy WOOL material, and fully lined.

I'm only addressing the companies that you've chosen).

[cavscout]

I have been wrestling with the same dilema for the past few weeks. After weighing the same issues you pose The decision I came to was to opt for the Freedom Kilt. Don't let the Canadian currency on his website rule them out. after the conversion to US dollars Freedom is less than $150. If you add a couple more pockets you bump up a bit.

I still plan to purchase a PK in the future (the MARPAT is awesome!)but what finally made my mind up was the versatility I can achieve with the Freedom ... and the BUTTONS! I expect to be able to wear this kilt while knocking around casually or to slip on a leather sporran and jacket to dress it up for a dinner out.

Steve Ashton at Freedom has been a great resource to bounce ideas off of and if you email or call him he will give you some rgeat insight as do all the members on this forum. Steve is willing to work with your custom desires as well. Just let him know what you would like and give him a crack at it.

[Galant]

I'd considered the Freedom Kilt, but haven't been too keen on the style of it from what I've seen. That is, I'd prefer more, smaller pleats, and on many of the images I've seen they seem to tend to flare out towards the front at the sides of the apron.

I might be being over-critical though.

The overall style I like, and the customisable pockets are good. Not sure how those 10 or 11 oz. materials compare with the PV Bear uses. Any ideas anyone?

[cavscout]

Freedom is working on a style with more pleats but as this increases the stitching labor the price goes up a bit.

[Galant]

IF you're looking for a very modern kilt that will last through a hurricane... then the UtilliKilt is a good choice. The design is innovative, and the pockets make it so that you don't need a sporran. Their product reputation is generally good. Cost around $150 (depending on model)

Are UK's really that durable? Because though they might lack the nicer pleats, it could be a good option for mucking around in. ?

[Gary]

I have 3 UK's, a Warrior tartan Bear, and a lined PK. I like all three styles. The UK's are great in warm weather, especially when doing things outside. The pockets have enough room for just about anything I want to carry. I have one that's over 4 years old and still looks good. My Bear kilt is light weight, cool, comfortable, and dressy enough for most non-formal/dressy casual occasions. (I wouldn't wear it to a wedding) The Bear kilt is the easiest to maintain, just wash and dry. My PK is lined and great for winter weather. I really like the side slash pockets.

I have 20 kilts and these 5 get more than their share of wear. I wouldn't get rid of any of them without a fight.

[Colin]

My Bear kilt is light weight, cool, comfortable, and dressy enough for most non-formal/dressy casual occasions. (I wouldn't wear it to a wedding)

I have worn both my a 4 yard and an 8 yard Bear kilt to a few weddings, as well as several other formal events. Although I do suggest the 8 yard, as it has the nicer pleats and weight. The 4 yards are wesome casual kilts. I have another 8 yard from Bear already on order, making that my 4th (2 4yard, 2 8 yard) from him. I can not say enough about the craftsmanship or quality. The only downside, is that Bear has a wee bit of a waittime right now.

Also, don't rule out Freedom Kilts, Steve's kilts may just convince me to buy a comtemporary style kilt yet. Great looking and well made product.

[Galant]

Well it does look like a very long wait on a Bear -

I was getting my hopes up too.

Was thinking one of Bear's for a nicer looking tartan, and then maybe a UK for a heavier duty wearing MUG.

[Colin]

Well it does look like a very long wait on a Bear -

I was getting my hopes up too.

Was thinking one of Bear's for a nicer looking tartan, and then maybe a UK for a heavier duty wearing MUG.

I think that would make a great combo.

[Galant]

Since the Mesa Highland games are coming up in a few weeks I'm thinking I could go there to see the UK vendor and maybe by buying there I can ensure a better fit.

At first I was thinking only of getting a UK but after checking out this site and others, my heart is almost entirely set on getting a tartan. If Bear is out of the question for now, who's the recommendation for a tartan? USA?