Since I am a runner, and don't do highland games, I can only address the kilt-for-running question. Unless it is really cold, thick and heavy is not what you want. All my runs have been done in a Sportkilt. More recently I have purchased one of their Hiking Kilts. The lighter and the less there is of it, the better it is for running. This is the same principal that is applied to running shorts and other running attire.