Comparison: Utilikilts - Alpha Kilts - Union Kilts - Other Modern/Neo Style Kilts

**ncof300d** · 25th November 08, 02:07 PM

I am looking to purchase another modern/neo style kilt and it seems every few months someone new is making kilts. I currently have a UK Mocker that I like, but do not love. I would appreciate some opinions from members that own modern/neo style kilts. I am especially interested to hear comparisons from those who own more than one make of modern/neo style kilts.
Thanks,
Nate

**Captain Karrot** · 25th November 08, 02:50 PM

I have a couple of UK's as well as an Alpha Kilt. Personally, I really like the Alpha. Build to withstand almost anything. Well put together. Quality product and it looks great. I have always gotten compliments when wearing it - even to a German Oktoberfest!

**Wompet** · 25th November 08, 03:32 PM

Comparing what I've owned, and what I've seen firsthand - I would go with a RKilt or Freedom Kilt.

**The Wizard of BC** · 25th November 08, 05:58 PM

There is a big difference between a Contemporary Kilt and a MUG. Perhaps you could be a bit more specific in what you are looking for.

Do you want an off-the-rack Kilt that is ordered by waist size only or are you looking for something a bit more custom made?

The Most important thing to specify when looking at some of the newer styles is "What do you want to do in your Kilt?". This will give us a good idea where to point you.

**Canuck** · 25th November 08, 06:15 PM

Originally Posted by The Wizard of BC

There is a big difference between a Contemporary Kilt and a MUG. Perhaps you could be a bit more specific in what you are looking for.

Do you want an off-the-rack Kilt that is ordered by waist size only or are you looking for something a bit more custom made?

The Most important thing to specify when looking at some of the newer styles is "What do you want to do in your Kilt?". This will give us a good idea where to point you.

Steve is great at pointing! but he's always pointing a certain finger at me and ....well....um...
But basically what he said and you'll get the goods.....

**ncof300d** · 26th November 08, 08:46 AM

Originally Posted by The Wizard of BC

Do you want an off-the-rack Kilt that is ordered by waist size only or are you looking for something a bit more custom made?

I am not entirely sure. Maybe something in between. I like the looks of most contemporary kilts, but I am a bit shy about ordering one as most do not have any adjustment at the waist.

Originally Posted by The Wizard of BC

The Most important thing to specify when looking at some of the newer styles is "What do you want to do in your Kilt?". This will give us a good idea where to point you.

Well, I am looking for something nice that I might consider for 'dress' or casual occasions. It would not be a kilt that I would wear to mow the yard or feed the chickens. It is helpful to see pictures, but I really wish that I could have the opportunity to actually see and perhaps try on come contemporary kilts.

**Geoff Withnell** · 26th November 08, 11:44 AM

Originally Posted by ncof300d

I am not entirely sure. Maybe something in between. I like the looks of most contemporary kilts, but I am a bit shy about ordering one as most do not have any adjustment at the waist.

Well, I am looking for something nice that I might consider for 'dress' or casual occasions. It would not be a kilt that I would wear to mow the yard or feed the chickens. It is helpful to see pictures, but I really wish that I could have the opportunity to actually see and perhaps try on come contemporary kilts.

I have two Amerikilts, which I like quite a bit. In the ones I have, there is actually a little adjustment in the waist since the top of the outer apron closes with velcro.

Geoff Withnell

**The Wizard of BC** · 26th November 08, 04:04 PM

My only suggestion to actually see, feel and try on some of the Kilts you mention would be to attend a Highland Games, RenFest, or other similar event. With the Utilikilt Co. going wholesale there are a glut of companies that have started up carrying not only UK's but AlphaKilts, Bear Kilts, AmeriKilts and usually an assortment of Middle-Eastern Acrylic Tartan Kilts such as those sold by Frugal Corner and Stillwater.

I'm sure some others here will know at least one of those companies operating in your area and would be willing to post some information.
Around here the Vancouver based company is called "The Kilted Connection". It's a couple of guys that operate out of and live in a van. They travel to every show they can squeeze into the season. They are active in Canada and the North-Western states.

However, if you want a Kilt that can be dressed up may I suggest you look at USA Kilts for a custom made Kilt first. One of Rocky's Kilts can be worn casually or dressed up with a Jacket and tie very easily.
Or Perhaps a Stillwater Kilt for an Acrylic off-the-rack Kilt.

If you are looking specifically for a solid colored Kilt then seeing one in person will really help you to decide. The main difference between a Contemporary Kilt and a MUG is the degree it can be dressed up.

Caution----rant in progress.

There is a secret that seems to be missed by many who are looking for a first Kilt or for a different style of Kilt. The secret is, that a good Kilt can be worn formally, informally, or casualy. A good custom-made Kilt can go equaly well with a Prince Charlie to a white-tie event one day and with a sweater and boots the next.
You can't do that with a MUG. The MUG style of garment is designed to be the equivelant of blue jeans. It can be worn wherever jeans would be worn. And worn with the same accessories. But as soon as you try to wear it even a little dressy it just doesn't work as well. Yes, some people wear a sport coat with jeans, and it can look OK. But jeans with a suit coat, dress shirt, and tie, when you have the need for those, just doesn't seem to be successfully pulled off very often.

So my advice would be to look at the best Kilt you can afford. It will last far longer, look better with a wider range of outfits, and be accepted by more people than most MUG's.

MUG's have their place. I own MUG's and wear them when working around the house, and love them for what they are, but prefer a true Contemporary Kilt when out in public.

**Cerebite** · 26th November 08, 08:59 PM

Listen to the Wizard, he knows of which he speaks. I only own a tank right now but I will be getting a contemporary kilt soon and because of many of the reasons that he stateded it will probably be from him.

The Wizard is to modest. In his list of options for custom contemporary kilts he failed to mention Freedom Kilts, his company among the options.

I will now get off of the Wizards soapbox as he appears to be returning from his coffee break.

**Carolina Kiltman** · 27th November 08, 01:38 PM

Originally Posted by The Wizard of BC

Caution----rant in progress.

There is a secret that seems to be missed by many who are looking for a first Kilt or for a different style of Kilt. The secret is, that a good Kilt can be worn formally, informally, or casualy. A good custom-made Kilt can go equaly well with a Prince Charlie to a white-tie event one day and with a sweater and boots the next.
You can't do that with a MUG. The MUG style of garment is designed to be the equivelant of blue jeans. It can be worn wherever jeans would be worn. And worn with the same accessories. But as soon as you try to wear it even a little dressy it just doesn't work as well. Yes, some people wear a sport coat with jeans, and it can look OK. But jeans with a suit coat, dress shirt, and tie, when you have the need for those, just doesn't seem to be successfully pulled off very often.

I totally agree, and since I have to go the custom route, I bought a "tank" (we ate beans for two months afterward to get it paid for). I have worn it with a "T" shirt, and to the formal Burns Night. It is never too dressy nor not dressy enough.