I'll offer what little experience has come my way regarding "artificial" kilts.

Until early this year, my firm belief was that to be an actual kilt, it had to be created from wool. All my kilts were woolen, pricey, and required a fair amount of maintenance.

As I've mentioned many times on these fora, my occupation is that of a piper. I must present the most proper appearance for the circumstance... "image is product".

Most of the fellers in my local kilt group wear kilts from USA or SWK. I was impressed enough with theirs to purchase a non-woolen kilt this spring. My hope was to have a presentable garment that would be cooler to perform in during the summer months.

My purchase was a USA Sem-Trad kilt and I haven't been disappointed, in fact quite pleased. I've worn it at every gig since received in early June. It circulates air better than a heavy woolen kilt and it's far easier & faster to iron. The pleats remain together, the swing is quite satisfactory, and no one hasn't noticed is was poly-viscose. The cost was less than half that of a woolen kilt.

I just returned from an outdoor wedding reception gig this evening, and I'm very pleased that I remained perspiration free the whole time.

My semi-trad has been worn casually, dress, and with formalwear. I haven't spilt anything on it, but that's diligence formed from a force of habit of many years.

I'd say that the USA Semi-Trad is a definite worthwhile purchase as a 2nd or even 1st kilt. No doubt when colder weather returns, the woolen kilts will be back in favor. If that's a drawback, thus far it's the only one I can think of.

Slainte yall,
steve