opinion on a "knockabout" kilt?

**Newfoundlander** · 13th September 11, 08:45 PM

I think you fair landed it lad =)

My kilt is heavyweight wool, a special order weave done as the Newfoundland tartan is not generally stocked, and it's a full 8-yard beauty. It's fantastic and is worth every bob that I paid for it, times two. I wear it fairly often. Buchannan, I'd certainly go wool for your first traditional kilt. Choose a good kiltmaker, go with a trusted weaver, and traditional heavyweight or regimental weight cloth.

The knockabout that I was inquiring into with launching this thread was for a decent kilt to take on a trip overseas, to wear when hiking, packing or shopping up wood, etc, and more regular daywear. Things I wouldn't want my "good" kilt subjected to, and much of the same things you like to do too it seems.

From the overwhelming responses and great knowledge shared here, I've done a bunch of homework, and talked to a number of the companies mentioned. It seems that PV is the way to go, and USAkilts have a great reputation for their 11oz PV. I think they made-to-measure approach will be of superior quality and their tartan selection is vastly superior to the UK off-the-peg kilts for only a modest increase in price. I want to make sure that this kilt comes back from my overseas trip and is still in fine form to last a long time after... The only question is now is to choose the semi-traditional or the casual kilt, and decide between the Irish National, the MacDonald, or the Ramsay (htg) tartan...

or all three :P

**chrisupyonder** · 13th September 11, 09:23 PM

About pleat holding and non wrinkle. I am also after the same type of kilt as Newfoundlander for daytime going out. I have my 16oz wool tank for best.

I have a pair of pants/trousers made of as stated on the label, 100% polyester. They are branded Farah. I have had them for about 5 years and they have been washed in a washing machine many many times.
They have never needed pressing and the creases are still as sharp as new.
The creases are not stitched or glued and I have looked with a powerful magnifier.

So how is this done and are there any kilts made with this stuff? and if not, why not?

Is polyester the same as polyviscose etc?

Chris.

**LitTrog** · 13th September 11, 09:44 PM

I realize I am a little late to add anything except a confirmation of your decision to go with USAK. Just wore mine on the 11th and it got slightly soiled...

The guy in the middle and the one second from the right (me) are both wearing USAK PV casuals.

Machine washed it Monday morning, hung it to dry, and it looks perfect. No dirt and pleats completely in order. Will provide a picture if you need verification, but it'll have to wait until I get back home on Thursday.

**chrisupyonder** · 13th September 11, 10:21 PM

Yeah, well, here's mud in your eye.

Chris.

**LitTrog** · 13th September 11, 10:43 PM

Originally Posted by chrisupyonder

Yeah, well, here's mud in your eye.

Chris.

Yup. In my eye, ears, and...

**Pleater** · 14th September 11, 02:59 AM

The last time I saw anyone looking like that was the fellow who got sent down to see if the pothole was flooded - and it was.

Anne the Pleater :ootd:

**Newfoundlander** · 14th September 11, 04:20 AM

That's a fantastic picture! If anyone ever wanted a confirmation to get a USAK for rough wear I'd say this is it! That looks like fun lad!

Mind if I ask a question? Were you wearing a belt or anything? How secure does the velcro closure system on the USAK casual kilts fasten on its own? Would it be comparable to a buckle closure on a traditional kilt?

Cheers!

**Geoff Withnell** · 14th September 11, 05:30 AM

Originally Posted by Newfoundlander

That's a fantastic picture! If anyone ever wanted a confirmation to get a USAK for rough wear I'd say this is it! That looks like fun lad!

Mind if I ask a question? Were you wearing a belt or anything? How secure does the velcro closure system on the USAK casual kilts fasten on its own? Would it be comparable to a buckle closure on a traditional kilt?

Cheers!

I would personally say it is very secure. Rather than just a square of velcro that you get with some suppliers, Rocky's casuals have a strip several inches long. That said, I think for very rough wear like the photo, I would recommend a belt.

**LitTrog** · 14th September 11, 06:00 AM

Originally Posted by Newfoundlander

That's a fantastic picture! If anyone ever wanted a confirmation to get a USAK for rough wear I'd say this is it! That looks like fun lad!

Mind if I ask a question? Were you wearing a belt or anything? How secure does the velcro closure system on the USAK casual kilts fasten on its own? Would it be comparable to a buckle closure on a traditional kilt?

Cheers!

There are two bands of hardy velcro which keep the kilt securely fastened and in place. I did not wear a belt for the event, nor did I ever feel the need (and this kilt was heavy by the end!). However, I did order that kilt to sit at my "jeans" waist, not my true waist, so that may or may not make a difference.

I feel it's comparable to a buckle closure only in the sense that it keeps the kilt from pooling about your ankles. No hip adjustment.

**LitTrog** · 14th September 11, 07:25 AM

Something to keep in mind which may influencee the need for a belt is a body's dimensions. My torso and seat are pretty thick compared to my waist measurement. I didn't experience the kilt riding up or falling down, but if you lack my bubble-style bottom, a belt might be something to consider.