Quote Originally Posted by nh_maclean View Post
I was looking at the Works model actually - ...

What about the piling of the fabric for SKs? I think I remember reading PV doesn't pile or snag as much as the acrylic? How deep are the pleats?
My Sportkilts have moderately sized pleats. The fabric has varied a bit over time, but on average is very attractive. I wear them daily, when I get up and when I'm knocking around the yard; I've experienced mild pilling in one kilt that's 2.5 years old. My most worn SK's are MacGregor and Wallace hunting; both are very nice fabric. I have a US St. Andrews ("USA tartan") whose fabric seemed to come from a different source. That one suffered more pilling after a few washings, but still looks good; it just has a softer feel and finish, more cotton-like than the others.

I believe SK would be excellent for sport, because they have a huge "deep pleat" (the first pleat on the left). Note that the sewn-down pleats are cylindrical (not tapered), and gathered at the waist with elastic in back.

Finally, I'd skip the straps/Works model, and otherwise order the features you want. Sewn pleats, yes. Belt loops, yes. Fringe optional to taste---they do it nicely. I don't especially like the look of the straps (about 1-inch wide), and they negate the advantage of Velcro; unless you're just going to step in and out of it instead of opening the aprons. Others are quite fond of the Works model, so that's just one guy's opinion.


The USAK casual is made from Marton Mills PV fabric, a cut about the SK. As others have noted, it's made to measure. IMO it will "dress up" more nicely. I love it for air travel, since it has no metal at all.


The SWK standard (acrylic fabric) also has a nice, traditional look. It has real straps, and a reverse pleat. I have one, and it shows moderate pilling after a good year of frequent wear and washing. I believe it can be addressed by a fabric shaver, but have not yet made the experiment. It's been mostly retired from church-going duty, to around the house or shopping. SWK's have a standard taper (about 6-inch difference between waist and hips); and if that fits you, it should look good.

I hate to say it, but in their price range the SK, USAK casual, and SWK standard are all wonderful. Each has its features and partisans, but I like them all.

For sport or active outdoor wear, SK or USAK will probably hold up best to laundering.