Kilt for camping... what to get next.

[timseh]

My better half has expressed a strong desire to do some camping this summer and even suggested all on her own that it seems that would be an activity best done kilted.

I currently own 2 SWK Standards. I'm planning on picking up at least 1 more kilt, probably 2. I'm happy with the look (and price) of the standards I have for everything from a walk in the park, to a night out at the pub to formal wear for my wedding.

I'm not sure how they'll hold up to camping, though. Iimagine they shouldn't be too bad, though for sitting by a fire, I imagine a heavyweight wool might be a better choice due to its tendency to not melt or burst into flame... I have no proof that my standards would do that, but I've heard things about PV fabrics doing so...

Cost is one factor in my decision. The SWK "Heavyweight Wool" seems like a good bargain... then again, I could get 2 Standards for the price of the heavyweight (more kilts is better, right?). I know all about the "breathability" differences between the PV and the wool, but I'm not so sure that's a big issue. Went for a 5 mile hike (ok, brisk walk) in my standard the other day and was plenty comfortable in 85º heat.

Another factor that needs to enter into this is the ability to wash them without sending them out to get them dry cleaned after camping in them... I know that ironing them may be a pain, but one of the first comments I got when out in my kilt was "ohmygod! it must cost you a fortune to have that cleaned!" Apparently, dry cleaners charge by the pleat for pleated skirts. Go figure.

Your thoughts are welcome. I'm particularly interested in the experiences of those who've had SWK standards and other PV kilts regarding ease of washing/pressing and the likely-hood that my man parts may be permanently disfigured by melting fabric.

[Dan R Porter]

I too am interested in the advice for this matter. I too have heard myths of flammable kilts. I wish someone would "SNOPE" this myth.

[Jdot84]

I am headed camping May 1-11. I plan on kilting most of the time so I'll let you know.

[cavscout]

I'd suggest a cotton kilt like a Freedom Kilt or a UK. Give a look at Celtic Warrior Kilts and sport kilt has a few models that will work. They can be made in solid earth tones or various camo patterns. Perfect for the great outdoors.

[The Wizard of BC]

Please know that the Kilts that have the flammability problems are not made from P/V. They are woven from Acrylic.

The lower end Kilts offered by Jerry are made from Acrylic and Acrylic blend fabrics. Do not get close to an open flame.

P/V is a blend of Polyester and Rayon. Both of these fibers will melt but leave behind a solid ash not a molten ball of plastic.

We have said this over and over.
If the fabric in your Kilt was not woven by Marton Mills in the UK then it is not P/V.
If your seller lists "Heavy-weight P/V" they do not know what they are selling.

P/V is a wonderful fabric to make Kilts from. The fabric from Marton Mills weighs 12oz. per fabric yard or 36" long by 60" wide. It is almost the equivalent weight of Mid-weight Wool.
It machine washes very well and is almost totally wrinkle free.
I have P/V Kilts in my rental fleet that have been machine washed and put through the dryer 22-25 times. They have never been touched by an iron but still look as good as the day they were made.

That being said I would opt for a Poly/Cotton or 100% Cotton Cargo style Kilt for camping. With lots of pockets.

[dfmacliam]

I find Steve gives sound advice....

[MuffinMan]

When I'm camping I bring my Alphas, wear like iron, doesn't show to much daily grind.

MM

[puffer]

I own 3 swks, but I am switching to USAK ( one on order)

I would also HIGHLY recommend one of these http://celticwarriorkilts.com/

I would also HIGHLY RECOMMEND a KILT APRON to wear aronnd camp to protect any KILT ( I DO )

BTW, I own 10 + kilts & wear them almost daily.

Puffer

[Iain Robb]

When I went camping last summer, in the lower elevations of the mountains of North Carolina (if that makes sense), I was too hot in my Stillwater Standard. The acrylic is rather thick and does not breathe very well. I switched to my Sportkilt and felt a lot better.

I imagine a 13 oz wool kilt would breathe better, but I personally would not wear a wool kilt for camping. I think my Sportkilt is great for camping, hiking, backpacking, etc.

[timseh]

First I want to say thanks for the advice so far.

Also, to clarify, any misstatements regarding what Jerry's kilts are made of are purely mine. I was not told by Jerry, and there was no implication on his web site, that the standards are PV. I was thinking wrong. Safety is certainly an issue. I am still very interested in the wash & wear-ability of the standards as I imagine they'll get quite a bit of use. The Leatherneck will be worn to official and semi official Marine Corps League functions and both the Leatherneck and the Saffron will be worn for "pubing".

Sportkilt may be a good option for camping for me, though I'm not sure how thrilled I am with the look of them from the photos. I like the look of the AlphaKilts as well and the Edinburgh is just at the edge of the price range I'd like to stay in.

Your advice is well taken, Steve. Thank you. I wish you had a casual kilt in the Leatherneck tartan, but I don't see that listed as an option. For some reason, I've gotten it into my head that I'd like to stick with the Leatherneck tartan or something like Saffron or green (olive drab works for me). Just a personal preference that fits my "style".

Keep it coming guys! Please! I'm still relatively new at this, but I've got the bug big time.