I see the word "Real" in this case a translation for the word "Traditional." To me, A traditional kilt, which some other people do consider the only kilt, is made from 8-9 yards of worsted wool tartan, hand sown in Scotland. To me, that's the full deal-as kiltish as it comes. However, I do consider the Bear Kilts, the Utilikilts, and the Amerikilts(and the like) to be kilts as well. However, I don't see them as Traditional, or even by some stretch of language,"Real" kilts. They are casual modern garments, and designed for men, and with the pleats and the classic structure, I see them as kilts.

But, what do I know. I own one kilt (I have a Mountain Hardwear Mountain Kilt-but the structure of that one is questionable-no pleats)-and it's a Traditional one(still waiting for some money to come about to buy a casual one or two), but, personally, to justify to myself(and to convince my skeptic and conservative family) that the kilt could be worn in modern day America, I had to get one of those first. Foolish, yes. Shallow, yes. But, I'm on my way to being a full time kiltie.

So, what I'm really trying to say is that our modern kilts may not be pure traditional, but in essense, not being Scottish hand-sewn garments made from 8-9 yards of worsed woll doesn't make them not kilts. So, I say go for the less expensive alternatives if you want. In the end, a kilt is a kilt.

--Macwizzard