I agree James, it's always best to react in a kind and friendly manner and give those commenting the benefit of the doubt.

When I wear my kilt in public (in a non-Scottish context) I invariably get comments, but almost all positive. Very very rarely have I encountered someone who had a negative reaction to seeing a man in a kilt (I'm sure it must have happened at least once, but I can't think of a single example right now). In fact, this is one reason I don't wear my kilt when I'm not "on the job" at the museum, or somewhere representing the museum. Because I know if I do that I'm going to stopped a dozen times and asked questions, and I don't always want to spend my days off talking about kilts!

Now, that's not to say I don't get stupid comments. For example, I think the question about what I'm wearing under my kilt is horribly rude and offensive. But I have to remind myself that those people who ask are not being intentionally rude. They think they are being funny, and even friendly. They see a man in a kilt, they think that's a neat-o thing, and want to come up and talk with me. How do they break the ice? Well, everyone knows the mystery, right? So that's what they ask.

So a snappy reply, said with a smile, will probably make the person's day and begin a conversation about other things. A rude come back will just leave a bad impresion all around.

Now, may a venture to say that there are some here for whom one of the reasons they like to wear the kilt in public is for "shock value"? In other words, they get some satisfaction from the looks and comments, and delight in being seen as "different"? I think in that case you have a different situation than if you are simply wearing the kilt for cultural or heritage reasons.

What do you do with something like the Utilikilt? People used to seeing kilts on tv and in parades may know what a kilt is and recognize a Scottish tartan kilt when they see one. But when they see a man walking down the street in a camoflague pleated skirt with buttons and cargo pockets, and don't make the connection that it's supposed to be a "kilt," can we blame them? Again, if someone questions you about it, be nice, take the time to explain, and don't assume they are purposefully being rude or ignorant.

All that said, if anyone is unlucky enough to encounter such troglodytes as Graham recently described (who yelled "Show us your balls!") then by all means put them in their place with a witty come back if you are quick enough -- otherwise ignore them for they are not worth any more of your attention.

Aye,
Matt