usa or stillwater?

[jjoseph]

I have had all 3 Stillwaters (econo, std, heavy)... just SKIP the economy; for the $$'s difference, their Standard is an amazing jump up in quality. I also have a wonderful kilt from Rocky at USA and its only drawback is a pet peeve of mine. VELCRO... it secures via velcro instead of straps and I just happen to despise velcro. I will tell you this: my USA is beaucoup sturdier than the Stills. Although I handwash both and hang dry, I suspect the USA would do well on a gently cycle; I can guarantee the Stillwater will NOT. So while SW standards are lighter and more felted than my USA, the twill fabric of my Thomson Grey from USA is just a much, much better fabric yet still quite light. (And the no iron pleats are a great help too!). All that to say, if you need a kilt that will wear a long time, talk to Rocky at USA about the fabric you are choosing. You can't go wrong. He'll steer you right. And know that Stills are GREAT buy for the price, but a bit fragile.