Most comfortable kilt

**bricelythgoe** · 29th January 09, 04:53 PM

Originally Posted by Scotus

Since SWK and Utilikilts are being discussed here, and suggested for so-called causual wear, I'm wondering if this thread really belongs in this section of the forum.

However, to add my two cents...

I think there is a mistaken notion about formal and informal. I have a couple of 8 yard wool kilts. These are worn for sitting around, or hiking, or formal, "black-tie dinner. I would say, get an 8 yard, 16 oz kilt.

Although utilikilts have been mentioned, they are not the subject of discussion. I was looking for a traditional tartan kilt. Although kilt makers have come up, like USAK, SWK, Freedom, and others, the idea of the thread was specific things of kilts that made it comfortable or uncomfortable.

I appreciate the advice. If I could afford that kilt, I would get one. I want one. I was hoping to find other, less expensive options.

**Panache** · 29th January 09, 05:33 PM

I am moving this discussion to the General Kilt talk forum where it would seem more appropriate.

Cheers

Jamie

**bricelythgoe** · 29th January 09, 05:43 PM

Originally Posted by Panache

I am moving this discussion to the General Kilt talk forum where it would seem more appropriate.

Cheers

Jamie

Ok. I put it in traditional kilts, because I wanted to keep the discussion away from the contemporary ones.

**Panache** · 29th January 09, 05:52 PM

Originally Posted by bricekolob

Ok. I put it in traditional kilts, because I wanted to keep the discussion away from the contemporary ones.

bricekolob,

FYI "Traditional Kilts" in the context of that forum really refer to hand sewn wool kilts made in the traditional manner.

"Traditionally styled kilts" can encompass a variety of materials, construction, and machine sewing.

Cheers

Jamie

**puffer** · 29th January 09, 06:30 PM

Extracting the "Temp. Factor" I would have to say
1. My SWK "standards ( I own 3)
2. My "officer Grade issue Regimental BW" or my "custom"period 5 yd "box pleat" ( sim to Matt's type")
3. My "premeir" 8 yd. from USA Kilts

Puffer

**Carolina Kiltman** · 29th January 09, 07:16 PM

Originally Posted by bricekolob

. . . . After reading your advice and Kilted Hiker's advice, I think I am getting the picture. I have never purchased a hand tailored garment before. I think that is the piece of the puzzle I never understood. I think I am going to try a nice, lesser expensive hand tailored kilt. Then I can see how it works and how it fits. That way I know what I am doing when I go for the full wool kilt. I appreciate all the advice!

Brice

For a number of years (decades actually) I was forced to wear tailor-made clothing due to my not usual build and the fact that I had to dress in a manner that was acceptable to the people I was trying to get money from (High level Business Executive Types). A kilt made to your precise measurements is a joy in the way it fits, as is a "bespoke" dress suit. You will not regret getting one from, say USAK.

Good kiltin' tae ye.

**SteveB** · 29th January 09, 07:38 PM

My tuppence worth,
I own an SWK Standard, an SWK Thrifty, 3 Sportkilts, several USAK semi-traditional, 2 Utilikilts, 3 Amerikilts, 1 WPG Gordon. I have made several kilts.
My Favourite and most comfortable kilt(s) is the USAK Semi-traditional that i received directly from Rocky, made to my exact measurements. The kilt new, and straight out of the box, and onto my body was at first a little stiff. Within two weeks of wearing it, the straps, and waist settled into my body perfectly.
I enjoy wearing this kilt for long days out and about as well as sitting in the classroom for even the longest lecture. The rest of my USAK collection is second hand from friends that have outgrown or undergrown them. They fit but are not exact to my body. I wear them as they "work". Again the most comfortable is that made to fir me from the kiltmaker.
BTW, I also own some hand sewn 100% wool kilts made to my measure that are a joy to wear, but I set my response on your interest in a tartan kilt on a budget.
Slainte

**bricelythgoe** · 29th January 09, 10:09 PM

You guys all have great ideas! I wish I could go out and buy one right now. If I had the money, I would buy from USAK. They have the tartan I want in a decent price. I need exactly what you guys describe. Something that is comfortable to wear all day. I AM going to wear my kilt. Even if it is a little uncomfortable after 8 hours of wearing it. I think it is important. I just hope to get the right one that can be worn for quite some time and not even notice it is their.

**RockyR** · 30th January 09, 06:02 AM

Originally Posted by bricekolob

Hey, was it stiff when you first got it? I am hoping my PV loosens up a little bit after wearing and washing it a few times. USAK seem like some good kilts. Plus they have the exact universal tartan I want.

If the 'potential stiffness' of the fabric is really a concern, I'd suggest asking the kiltmaker for a swatch. Whether you buy from USAK, FK or CCC or anyone else that stocks PV from MM, getting a swatch shouldn't be that big of a deal.

If you ask a company for a swatch that doesn't MAKE their own kilts (just kilt retailers), then it may be a bit of a problem.

Hope this helps!

billmcc · 30th January 09, 09:43 AM

Originally Posted by bricekolob

What I really would like to do is try a kilt that sits lower on my waist, like my pants. ...I am leaning towards a USA casual kilt.

USA Kilts Casuals can either be worn at the "Jeans Waist" or at the "True Waist" (just above your naval) like a traditional kilt. PICK ONE OF THOSE 2 SPOTS and measure yourself at that height. This is where the top of the kilt will sit.

The above statement is copied from the measuring instructions on the USAK website located here: http://www.usakilts.com/store/cas_measuring.php

Some like a kilt that sits lower on the waist like pants, but I prefer to have it sit at the true waist because it looks and feels more like a traditional kilt at that height.