Casual vs. SemiTraditional

**RockyR** · 31st May 11, 04:37 PM

Hey Guys,

I'll let others make the comparisons between our kilts and other companies (materials, construction, etc), but I will make the direct comparison between the Casual and the Semi Trad... scroll down 1/2 way for the Semi Trad and then all the way for the Casual:

http://www.usakilts.com/store/cart.php?m=content&page=6

The Semi Trad has straps and buckles, 1" pleats, deeper pleats, roughly 5 to 7 yards of fabric, 2 big loops on the back... in general, is made to LOOK like a traditional kilt, but is made from PV cloth and much less labor (roughly 6 hours), so we call it the SEMI Traditional.

The Casual kilt has Velcro closure, 1.5" pleats, slightly shallower pleats (compared to Semi Trad), uses 4 to 5.5 yards of cloth, has 3 belt loops and our logo (which CAN be left off on request) and takes about 3 hours to make. It's made for wearing casually, so we call it the CASUAL Kilt.

I hope this info helps!

**Spartan Tartan** · 31st May 11, 04:40 PM

Originally Posted by Joshua

I'm of the impression that PV is a superior material than acrylic for several reasons, but the stain resistance, reduced flammability, and reduced pilling all take my vote.

In fact, I have plans on getting a pair of kilts from Rocky in the near future, one thrifty and one semi-trad... since he was nice enough to get the tartan I was looking for from MM.

Can Rocky get more than what is listed on his website?!

As to the OP, the casual and semi-trad are made from the same material (USAK, is what im referring to). The semi-trad I believe is worn at the natural waste and is essentially made in the traditional manner. Whereas the casual is made for the waste usually worn with trousers.

I don't toss heavy things around, but if I did I would echo Detroitpete in that buckles would probably becmore problems....given that I'd certainly go for the casual.

Best of luck!

**Spartan Tartan** · 31st May 11, 04:43 PM

well...don't I feel rather sheepish. I tried answering but Rocky posted just before me. Yeah, he knows better than I...but I'd still get the casual for throwing

**xman** · 31st May 11, 05:15 PM

I dunno what a hundred and ten zeds are but, yeah they're made from the same stuff. I like my casual a lot, but I still wish it were a semi-trad often enough to recommend you get that.

**Droid** · 2nd June 11, 06:20 AM

To add a little closure to this thread... I ordered a Casual Kilt from USA Kilts yesterday. Rocky was kind enough to answer a few questions on sizing and fitting. He provided fast and courteous responses. I feel good about my purchase.

**seanachie** · 2nd June 11, 07:49 AM

Originally Posted by Spartan Tartan

Can Rocky get more than what is listed on his website?!

As to the OP, the casual and semi-trad are made from the same material (USAK, is what im referring to). The semi-trad I believe is worn at the natural waste and is essentially made in the traditional manner. Whereas the casual is made for the waste usually worn with trousers.

I don't toss heavy things around, but if I did I would echo Detroitpete in that buckles would probably becmore problems....given that I'd certainly go for the casual.

Best of luck!

Speaking in general terms, there is a finite number of PV tartans as they are all produced by Marton Mills. There have been instances where special runs of a tartan have been done, and if you search old threads you will see them.

I do not believe a casual PV kilt needs to be worn at the pant waist, that is up to the individual, but you better make sure you get the measurements correct. I have 2 casual PV kilts, though not from USAK, and wear them at the kilts waist and they are very comfortable that way and my preference.

The difference in yardage on a PV kilt can make a difference. I have a PV kilt equivalent to the USAK semi trad and notice the difference for sure. From the nice swing, to the more practical like it is a bit warmer when temps dip. I wore a casual in Beijing in November and was comfortable until the sun set and the winds picked up then it got chilly.

I have been well pleased with PV for it's durability, ease in cleaning and comfort. (Marton Mills PV is treated for stain resistance) Make sure to keep the leather straps conditioned if you get a semi trad.

**Droid** · 2nd June 11, 08:42 AM

Originally Posted by Droid

To add a little closure to this thread... I ordered a Casual Kilt from USA Kilts yesterday. Rocky was kind enough to answer a few questions on sizing and fitting. He provided fast and courteous responses. I feel good about my purchase.

Oh, and I measured for my waist positioned at my belly. I like how that feels, it's comfortable for me. Or, at least it is when I wear my wool kilt.

**Spartan Tartan** · 2nd June 11, 09:19 AM

Seanachi,
Thanks for the clarification. I guess they make the waist whatever you give them and the length as well...I have a PV casual and wear it at the same place as my "tank". It is more comfortable that way for me as well...I just assumed most wore the casual lower. I guess that's my mistake for assuming.

**Spartan Tartan** · 2nd June 11, 09:20 AM

Originally Posted by Droid

To add a little closure to this thread... I ordered a Casual Kilt from USA Kilts yesterday. Rocky was kind enough to answer a few questions on sizing and fitting. He provided fast and courteous responses. I feel good about my purchase.

Good call and I am sure you will be very happy with your new kilt.