What Kilt to buy:

It is important to understand that the only difference between a Casual Kilt and a Traditional Kilt is the amount of material used. A Casual Kilt is generally made from 5 yards (4.57 m) of material, a Traditional Kilt from 8 yards (7.31 m) of material. The fabric used is the same, either 13oz Mediumweight or 16oz Heavyweight. The style and making of the kilt is the same.

The Traditional 8 yard Kilt looks more authentic with deep pleats at the rear, which results in the impressive 'swing', for example when marching or dancing. The 5 yard Casual Kilt is often the Kilt worn for hill walking and other recreational activities as it is lighter, with fewer and wider pleats at the rear. From the front both Kilts look the same.

The weight of the Kilt is purely your own preference. Mediumweight tartans are more common, therefore, the Mediumweight Kilt tends to be the preferred choice. Please do not be mislead by the fabric weight, 13oz Mediumweight and 16oz Heavyweight are both heavy fabrics. Lightweight fabric is generally used only for ladies kilted skirts and is not recommended for gents Kilts.
The pleating of the Kilt is also very important. This is one of the most difficult tasks in the making of a Kilt, the Art of Kiltmaking. The 8 yard Kilt can be "pleated to sett", which means that Kilt is pleated in such a way that the pattern of the tartan is visible at the back as it is at the front. It is also possible to align the pleats to the stripe, known as "pleated to stripes", but not every tartan is suitable for this. If you are unsure as to what to select, then simply choose "pleated to the sett", you cannot go wrong. Please note that a Casual Kilt is generally pleated to the sett, but does not give the same effect as a traditional kilt.

 

 

We hope this brief explanation helps you make your decision. If you are still unsure, simply contact us.