Newbie here, seeking advice.

[ScottInNewHampshire]

Welcome from the Seacoast of New Hampshire (USA).

Agree that Stillwater always has a wonder selection. Since you're into rugby and athletics, worth a look at SportKilt too. They're well made and pretty rugged.

[Riverkilt]

Welcome,

I've got a 19 year old lurking inside my 62 year old body too.

From what you describe I think you'd probably be best to start out with a USA Kilts casual model. Not much over your $100 limit. But for St. Pat's you'd best be making a decision.

I agree that at 5'8" unless you have long legs the Stillwater length is gonna be way too long, as is USA Kilts off the rack. I'm a stubby legged 6'0" and both are too long for me too. Rocky can cut the USA Kilts casual to your custom length.

If you're a pickled liver guy the bonus of the USA Kilt casual is the teflon coating so its easy to clean if you ever spill or drool stuff on it.

Plenty of pics of various kilts in my gallery if that helps any with your decision making.

Ron