Need help with a decision - X Marks the Scot

wrjohnson · #1 12-18-2009, 09:56 AM

I want to order my first kilt and currently cannot afford a tank. I am looking for some help in deciding on either a standard kilt from Stillwater Kilts or a casual kilt from USA Kilts. I am what you may call "horizontally gifted" but either one will fit. Any help you could provide will be greatly appreciated.

Jock Scot · #2 12-18-2009, 10:08 AM

I know you are full off enthusiasm to order your new kilt, but if I may, can I advise a slightly more boring course of action and suggest that you save your money a wee while longer and buy a tank. You will not regret it in the long run.

NewEnglander · #3 12-18-2009, 10:22 AM

How do you plan on wearing your kilt? Not only for what sort of events and activities, but also, where on your body? I recently got my casual from Rocky at USA Kilts and love it. I wear it at my navel. Traditionally, kilts are worn higher than that. With a USA Kilt you can decide where you want to wear it. With the standard length of a Stillwater I don't know if that's as much of an option. But I don't own one of those, so I couldn't say for sure.
Also, does the tartan make a difference to you? USA Kilts has far more choices in that department.
Think about these things and use the search feature here on XMTS. Also check out the various kilt company forums here on the board.
Slainte!

Monkey@Arms · #4 12-18-2009, 11:11 AM

Just as a general proposition, IMHO the USAK is a better product. Made to measure, more tartan choices, and PV wears a lot better then acrylic. I recommend asking Rocky at USAK to leave the patch off, believe me, it will pass as a much more expensive kilt in a roomful of kilties.

Best regards,

Jake

A_Hay! · #5 12-18-2009, 02:17 PM

I would side with Monkey@Arms on this one. I own 3 Stillwater and 3 or 4 USA Kilts.
Both have their pros and cons, but USA Kilts have more choices, the PV is a good starter kilt, and very versatile.

This will get you started, and then when you decide you are ready and have a bit more cash, you can go for a "tank" and the jackets for more formal occasions.

Others will say wait until you can afford the "tank" (8 yard, wool), but then you will lose out on the fun and experience of wearing a kilt.

Just my opinion.

Regards,
Tom

wrjohnson · #6 12-18-2009, 02:44 PM

I appreciate the information. I have been researching the different companies for about a month and am looking for some advice from people who have worn both.

As far as where I will wear the kilt, I plan to wear it just above the navel, where most "traditional" kilts are worn. I paln to use this kilt as a knock around kilt and also for time at renaissance fairs with the Queens Own Highlanders from Scarborough.

Again, thanks for the help.

csbdr · #7 12-18-2009, 02:57 PM

Given your planned uses, you might be best off with USAK (definately over SWK. A good product, but apples and oranges quality and fit).

Normally, though, I would agree with Jock. If USAK is in your budget, then a mere extra $100-150 more saving would get you a stunning machine-made "tank" from any number of vendors. But, it sounds like rough use you plan for this kilt?

MacBean · #8 12-18-2009, 04:12 PM

My first kilt was a Burnett's and Struth wool casual, which are an exceptional deal, especially if you can catch a sale and they have a tartan you want. They were great to work with, and the kilt is lovely. They have a greater selection in the heaviest line of tartans. They (and Rocky of USA Kilts) also make full-length kilts.

I am considering ordering a PV from USAKilts and also a quality hand-made tank. There is another thread today that compares kilt qualities and purposes. I am pretty convinced that the recommendations to save money and buy the best make lots of sense for those who wear kilts on special occasions. A knock-around casual PV kilt has its place though.

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/k...x.html?t=55594

Rex_Tremende · #9 12-18-2009, 04:36 PM

I have worn both. I have worn a tank too. I still wear the USAKs and the tanks. I don't wear the SWKs any more at all, and in fact have given one of the two I purchased away for free. For me, my body, and my tastes, the SWK is not a value. YMMV. Sure Jerry has excellent customer service, and is completely up front about the product, but unless he's planning to become my valet, that's a one-time deal.

I agree with Jock, but I also understand needing to scratch an itch. I could only recommend a SWK to the person who has no money at all and never plans to ever have any ever again. My recommendation is to go with USAK.

Regards,
Rex.

KiltShot · #10 12-18-2009, 05:37 PM

I bought my first kilt from USAK for a few reasons:

1) I could choose the height I wanted to wear it at.
2) I was impressed by the easy care features of the material. (Check the website.)
3) I was able to get the feature most important to me; an apron pocket. (I have no interest in wearing a sporran.)
3) I like the American Heritage tartan.
4) I felt it was a good value for what I paid.
5) The company has a good reputation for quality and service.

I spent time doing my homework and I think I chose carefully. Now that I have my first kilt and I know that kilting is for me a tank is defiantly in my future. I plan to pick that out just as carefully.