I too bought my first kilt from J.Higgins-a wool tank back when I was 19. So when these first came out for 80$ I got one in MacKay Ancient.
In front of me, it has 20 pleats to it, plus the reverse pleat to the right with no lining. It has the same quality buckles and straps as their woolen Kilts. The only, and I mean only, flaw with it is that the stitching on the right-side of the apron (the doubling on the inside by the fringe) is slightly noticable on the outside from waist to selvedge-though, they may not have been used to working with such thin material like the pv at first-that's my guess; I dont think much of it, otherwise I would've sent it back afterall.
I wore mine constantly through the summer heat here and is very cool as it is so light but heavy enough for modesty's sake. The kilt is definately coated: after my daughter was born this year she tested it several times by spitting up all over it. It has held up to everything plus washings, each time coming out just as if new. I adore this kilt. Go for it, you won't be disappointed.