I seriously understand where you are coming from.

I have a nice 8 yd wool that I wish to preserve and decided similarly to find something that as you say, "On for the fare, one for some flare and one that I won't have to take to much to care".

I actually got both a Sportkilt and a USAK Casual (in truth the USAK casual was a moment of opportunity). Actually, I bought the Sportkilt and I was not satisfied with it and went on the hunt to actually satisfy my wish for a comfortable casual that can be worn in public. I simply will NOT wear the Sportkilt outside of my house and fenced in backyard--and honestly, I have not put it on since getting the USAK Casual. Hindsight is 20-20, and from my "glasses" I would have just bought the USAK Casual to begin with. My USAK Casual was not even made to my specifications, but looks great.

I know others have positive things to say about Sportkilt. I am not saying anything bad about them. However, my personal preference is for a heavier feeling kilt and I find that the PV does that better than acrylic. I do not wear my kilt to participate in athletic events, but if I did I would wear the Sportkilt for certain.

I do not have a USAK Semi-trad, but if it's within your budget I suspect you will be even happier with that.

Just my personal opinion and two cents worth.