16oz verses 13oz kilt material

[Spartan Tartan]

I think this a subjective experience. I live in a part of California where temps reach over 100F for many days throughout the summer. For me, there is no discernable comfort difference between an 8 yard 16 oz and 8 yard 13oz kilt. For me, the traditional kilt hose is what causes the most heat related discomfort. But again, that is my subjective experience.

If all else is equal (color, quality, availability) I always choose 16oz over 13oz.

Agreed. I also like the previous responses of having your kilt made with less materialas an option. I prefer heavier and like the feel of the weight. It adds to my confidence that I'm not inadvertently exposing myself as well.

[M. A. C. Newsome]

At the STM we alway recommend the heaviest weight cloth that is available within your budget. It's a good formula.

First decide what tartan you want, in what color scheme, as this obviously has the most impact on how your kilt looks.

Then, from there, see what weight ranges are available (remembering we can always have the heavy weight custom woven). That may or may not limit your choices.

Finally, from those options, go with the heaviest weight within your budget. We describe the difference between light, medium, and heavy weight as, "good, better, best." We would not sell you a poor quality kilt, but we want you to get the best you can, because in the long run we know folks will generally be happier in the heavy weight kilt.

Like Rathdown, when some is specifically looking for a cooler wearing kilt, we recommend one with less yardage, as this will have more actual impact on the temperature, without sacrificing the benefits of the heavy weight wool.

[Jerry]

I have worn my 16 oz kilt which is nearly 9 yards of cloth in temperatures of nearly 100 degF (37 degC) and the high humidity of our Virginia summers and was at least as comfortable as I would have been wearing most anything else. I guess it is what you are used to. I grew up in this area, and we didn't even have air conditioning until I was in high school.

[Tartan Tess]

The tartan I have gotten from Heritage of Scotland is nice but the weight seems lighter than expected. You probably did better ordering the 16 oz.

[Jack Daw]

I have one 13 oz, and all the other 9 are 16. I prefer the 16 oz. as it seems to hold the pleats better and will be more stable in the wind.

[OC Richard]

I agree with the above,

For me, there's nothing like the way a heavyweight kilt hangs, looks, and feels.

I do have a 13oz kilt which I got because with that particular tartan and mill there was a significant difference in colouring between the 13oz and 16oz.

What I don't like is all the weight in the back of a heavyweight 8 yard kilt, so I have my kilts made with a bit less yardage, between 6 and 7 yards.

[Galician]

Isn't Heritage of Scotland the establishment run by the dreaded G*** Brothers, proponents of cheap tartan products?

[creagdhubh]

I prefer the 16 ounce weight, however, like a forum member previously mentioned, some tartans only come in the 13 ounce variety - example, the Macpherson Red Muted, in which I own in a kilt, is only available in the 13 ounce worsted wool weight. I strive for the 16 ounce weight because that is the ideal kilt-making material for a superb swing and deep pleats.

You made the right choice mate!

[Mark Stephenson]

If you are concerned about heat, go with smaller yardage. Keep the 16 oz wieght. I have 5 and 8 yard kilts in 16 oz fabric and have found the 5 yard works well in the summer if I am outside in the heat.

[creagdhubh]

If you are concerned about heat, go with smaller yardage. Keep the 16 oz wieght. I have 5 and 8 yard kilts in 16 oz fabric and have found the 5 yard works well in the summer if I am outside in the heat.

Great point Mark!