Question?

[macneighill]

OK, I have searched this forum and, others . . to see what to look for in a kilt, what to stay away from, what to look for in a kilt maker, etc.

I'm looking at purchasing my first kilt. However, I really like the traditional 8 yard kilt but, also like the idea of the 5 yard casual kilt. I know allot would depend upon the "type" of occassions I would be wearing it to. Right now, I mostly attend highland games, as well as other Scottish/Celtic events. Nothing really "formal" for now. Would it be best to just choose the 8 yard kilt or, would a casual kilt be a better choice for these types of events?

If I purchase a 5 yard, it will give me more of a reason to purchase an 8 yard kilt later .

[Galb]

For me personally, I prefer the 8 yard because I like having more pleats. But both serve their purpose well. I believe I have one of each, a Standard from Stillwater Kilts and one from the Gold Bros that I got at a Highland Games. The Stillwater one is by far my favorite with a lot of pleats, nice material, and very comfortable. The Gold Bros one has less pleats which are not as deep. Still comfortable though.

[IrishGodfather]

I just bought a SportKilt for my first kilt, mostly because it's light, durable, cheap, and I know I won't wear it a whole lot yet, so I just got one I liked to beat up until I can afford a nicer kilt. I've looked at the USA Kilts, and the casuals look really good, and they're cheap. Also, I've been in the market for a Standard Stillwater kilt, so I think starting with something in the 5 yrd. or casual kilt is a good idea so you cacn get used to it all, but hey who am I to judge.

[Jack Daw]

I prefer the 8-yarder regardless, and for such you have the choice of a hand-sewn or machine-sewn - the latter being cheaper. As examples, JHiggins does machine sewn and Kathy Lare, et. al. with the XMTS vendors you can get the hand-sewn. Also, you can get a box-pleated from STM (Matt Newsome) that is cheaper because the yardage is shorter. Also, my personal opinion is to avoid fabrics of less than 16 oz.

[Dukeof Kircaldy]

Go with an 8 yarder. That way you have a kilt that will do you for pretty much all occassions.

As for the weight, that depends on loads of things. I prefer the heavier weights, but I wear the kilt only when it's cold. Anything less than 16 Oz is going to be too light for my needs.

[Caddy One]

8 Yards......

[Colin]

I prefer the 8 as it is more versatile, but if it's for mostly casual use with the occasional formal event, a 5 yard wool kilt from a reputable vendor will look much better than a lot of the stuff that is sold out there these days including some items labeled as "8 yard traditional kilts" (from the traditional acrylic sheep of course).

[McNulty]

Jimmy
If you are looking to spend around $100 including shipping, then look at SWK standards. Jerry is spectacular in his service and the product is great also. SWK would be the best bang for your buck. My Black Watch Standard and Solid Green Heavyweight are my favorites and they go every where and do just about everything I've got several other standards and use them for hiking to wearing to work. If you want to spend more, then any of the advertising X-markers would be super. Read some of the threads for the machine/hand sewns. Good luck and Welcome from the Western Slope.
Nulty

[McNulty]

Jimmy
BTW I'd go with either dark green hose and a green shirt w/ regular shoes or go with navy hose and a navy shirt.
Nulty

[macneighill]

Hello Nulty (as well as everyone else that has responded)
Thanks for the advice. I think I've narrowed down my search. I'm looking at a "Standard 8 Yard Kilt" (Lochcarron Heavyweight or Jura Range Heavyweight Kilt), from TartanWeb (www.tartanweb.com). Although, I think I'm leaning more towards the Lochcarron kilt (I haven't found too much out there on Jura Range). I'm very sure I would rather begin with an 8 yard kilt. Then, after a bit, pickup a 5 yard kilt as well .