I have one of those "Elk" Kilts in a Med size. I to have a 30 waist. Its a little big on me, but i have to pull the belt tighter. I got this size because I also have one of the older styles with no pleats. The small in that size was to small for me so i got the med. I was thinking this one was made the same way, so I stayed with the Med. Im going to order another in a size small. I mostly wear mine when doing things around the house and when on road trips driving. Also wear it to the gym.