(Hopefully) Camping at Palo Duro Canyon soon!

**Cynthia** · 5th May 08, 09:43 AM

One of the reasons my hubby bought his first kilt (Stillwater Standard in Black Stewart) instead of waiting to finish losing weight was so we could go hiking. I do love hiking and camping, but I hate the heat and bugs (and snakes and spiders). I'm also a little obsessive and the past few times he's mentioned "we should go camping!" at the last minute it threw me into a panic because I can't even remember what we have or need and I can't stand not planning.

Anyway, his birthday is this month and we both have wanted to go back to Palo Duro Canyon, especially before it gets too hot. I have no clue if we'll be able to head out there because an emergency trip to see my Dad in Missouri tapped into our funds pretty heavily a few weeks ago.

He's wanting to get some hiking boots so he can be more comfortable in his kilt and still look nice. We're also contemplating stopping by Caprock Canyon on the way back.

I'm excited because I've been trying to get him to wear the kilt out more often (which he will, I'm sure, once he has more accessories for a variety of styles). I probably shouldn't get my hopes up in case we end up not being able to go, but I can't help it

Of course, we'll bring the camera and post any photos we get.

I just wish I could get a kilt for myself. I'm still contemplating a SWK Thrifty, but the lack of sizes and tartans at the moment (not to mention saying "gosh, we really shouldn't be spending money on other things like that right now") kind of gets in the way. I've got my eyes on more expensive kilted skirts in specific tartans, but I need to have something so I don't feel left out.

Gosh, I sure hope our plans work out. Those would be some great photos, not to mention a good time!

**Finn** · 5th May 08, 09:51 AM

While I'm still not happy with Sportkilt, they may be the way for you to go. Just a regular SK, or the hiking. The latter comes in only two plaids, though. Economical & easy.

**Cynthia** · 5th May 08, 09:57 AM

Yeah, I really should look around and see what's good for very affordable and quick kilts for me. I'm really only familiar with Stillwater since that's the only kilt we've purchased.

I've got my eyes on USA Kilts and the Welsh Tartan Centre (for my Griffith kilted skirt, I'd like to get at least one from them if I can) for down the line when I'm ready to start getting the others.

I'm not sure when we'd be going out there, so if I did get one I think SWK would be a quick choice for a first try. I'm not too thrilled at the concept of velcro (I wish there were more Economies left), but with all the other things we need to get I can't really spend too much money. I probably shouldn't buy even a cheap one. I need to buy hiking boots as well.

We'll see

**auld argonian** · 5th May 08, 10:05 AM

You might consider a USAK casual...the PV is probably the coolest and most no-fuss material that you can get.

And as your significant other heads out in search of hiking boots...

Go try some on and buy according to what feels right for your foot and not according to "reputation". Different companies design on different "lasts" or foot-models and you have to find one that most closely matches your foot. I, for example, have found one boot company that fits perfectly, one that's damn close and several of the big-name companies whose shoes are definitely not for my foot.

And check out Sierra Trading Post and Campmor on line for special deals once you settle on a brand. If Vasque hikers fit well, look around for a Red Wing Shoe Store, that's Vasque's parent company and they often have some awesome sales.

Best

AA

**Nighthawk** · 5th May 08, 11:06 AM

Originally Posted by Finn

While I'm still not happy with Sportkilt, they may be the way for you to go. Just a regular SK, or the hiking. The latter comes in only two plaids, though. Economical & easy.

I would second that. I don't like my SK- I feel it was way too much money for the equivelant of an SWK Thrifty with cheap a** leather straps- but my wife has two of their skirts, and those are really nice. So I say go with an SK skirt! Good luck with the trip!

**Panache** · 5th May 08, 11:29 AM

Cynthia,

Don't knock velcro, especially if you are looking for something to knock around on trails and such. My favorite kilts all only have two straps so with a belt none of them are visible. My SWK Hunting Mcleod is my favorite kilt for hiking (at least until the weather gets warm then I'm switching to my Camo X Kilt).

As for boots, I noticed that Pour1Malt seemed very happy with the Caterpillar brand work boot (as well as fellow Nor Cal Rabbler walkerk). I went to a big outlet store called "Work World" and bought the lightest model of Caterpillar boot they had ("Second Shift" is the model name). They were $80 and I have been very pleased at the comfort and quality of them.

Cheers

Jamie

**Cynthia** · 5th May 08, 11:40 AM

Panache: My main worry with velcro is I could swear I'd read a few reviews that said the velcro didn't hold very well. I would hate to have to deal with trying to keep it fastened properly or slipping on me, not to mention I'm not sure how velcro will potentially eat at the fabric over time (the sticky side catching on the fabric, if that makes sense). Otherwise, I think it would be good for something like a casual/hiking kilt.

Thanks so much for the replies, everyone!