Hi Nighthawk,

Basically yes, we consider these two different styles. We don't see the 5 yard casual kilt as being an economy version of a 'proper' kilt but rather as a more easily wearable garment for informal use... much as you describe.

I can't easily comment on the pleating depth without seeing the USAK version side by side as you do. But I'm guessing that Rex's question may hold the clue. Are the sett sizes the same? The number and depth of pleats mostly flows from that, with the kiltmaker working out the optimum way to pleat for a particular tartan. In the end, if it's described as 5 yards, you should have ended up with (roughly) that amount of fabric in both.