I have frequently worn Utilikilts when in Edinburgh and have never received anything other than silence (!) or compliments whilst there. I remember being in one bar and getting into a conversation with some trousered younger Scots guys who were intrigued by the Utilikilt I was wearing. They clearly thought the large pockets a huge advantage and the fact that there were kilts out there built for 'knocking about in'. They, like so many, wrongly considered tartan kilts to be for special occasions only.

Here I am on the Royal Yacht 'Britannia' whilst on my last stay in the Capital:


I am wondering, Rob, if your son's experiences could have been due to his youth and possibly his not having as much confidence as some of us more 'mature' kilt wearers. Even a slight lack of confidence can make us vulnerable. Just a thought.