A full 8 yard kilt or a 5 yard kilt?

We get this question all the time, what is the difference between the 8 yard kilt and the 5 yard kilt?  The answer is obvious in the name, as there is more tartan “yardage” is in the 8 yard kilt.  However, let’s highlight a few key differences to help make your purchase easier.  The 8 yard kilt is HEAVY, especially if it is made in the 16 oz. strome weight.   Some people love this heavy weight, others are shocked by how heavy the kilt is to wear.  The 8 yard kilt really requires a “snug” measurement on the waist in order to stay put.  This is very important when measuring for your new kilt.  The 8 yard is heavy to travel with as well if you are thinking of doing any air travel with your kilt.  The pleatts are “deeper” with the 8 yard kilt than with a 5 yard kilt.  The back of the 8 yard kilt tends to look more full.

The 5 yard kilt is lighter to wear.  Once again, if you are planning on travelling with your kilt or wearing it in a tropical destination, the 5 yard kilt is a nice option.  We highly recommend ordering the 5 yard kilt in the 16 oz. strome tartan weight though, as it makes for nice pleatting and the tartan does not crease as easy.  The 5 yard kilt is going to be priced better than an 8 yard kilt as well, so that can help with decision making.

Some folks want “absolute tradition” and choose the 8 yard kilt without necessarily taking the above information in to account.  Others simply want a quality kilt that is woven and make in the UK and opt for a lighter option.  Whether it is yardage or price, we are here to measure you to assure you of a good fit for your kilt.    Measuring is the most important part!