Utility Kilts vs. Traditional Kilts: The Ultimate Choice

Started as the Great Kilts, the kilts today are available in many variations. Traditional kilts also known as tartan kilts, and utility kilts are two primary types that are most demanding by now. Therefore both of these products have minimal similarities. Still, a majority remains confused about which one among these to buy. To help them, we decided to give a complete piece of information about utility kilts vs. traditional kilts.
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ToggleWhat Are Traditional Kilts?
Traditional kilts are made with tartan fabric which served as the first one to make kilts in history. Also known as tartan kilts and made with acrylic wool, these kilts usually have the same traditional style while the factor differentiating them is the checkered pattern every tartan has. The kilt sits naturally on the waistline and falls to the kneecap having an overlapping traditional apron. Some common names in traditional kilts are:
What Are Utility Kilts?

Utility kilts on the other hand are the latest addition to the kilt’s domain. It is borned a couple of decades ago that specifically aims to help people as the practical ones. Heavy fabrics like denim usually make this variation, which is usually more durable than traditional apparel.
Its ability to withstand harsh situations makes it superior to many others. However, it is a preferable choice for those who work outside mostly. That’s why people also know it as a working kilt. When it comes to some excellent utility kilts, IKS provides you with a Men’s Khaki Utility Kilt with Golden Buttons. Similarly, a Modern Navy Blue Utility Kilt with Stylish Pockets is a practical product to purchase.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Kilts

Did you know what is the best way to choose the one when you have two or more options? It is to have awareness with their pros and cons. So, we did the same to find the better one among them. First have a look at the positive and negative aspects of traditional kilts then we will observe the second one.
The Pros
- Traditional kilts are comfortable and breathable.
- They provide you with freedom of movement thanks to their pleats.
- Versatility hidden in them makes them suitable for different occasions.
- They serve as a Scottish identity. Not only Scottish but also represents the clan.
- Tartan kilts come with traditional unique designs.
- Attraction hidden in their different colors and patterns grabs the attention of others.
The Cons
- Their limited versatility restricts them to cultural events only.
- The construction with wool does not ensure protection against rainy weather which is common in Scotland.
- Increased vulnerability in working environments usually resulting in health issues.
- They need special maintenance. A little act of carelessness can ruin the fabric.
Pros and Cons of Utility Kilts

No kilt variation is free of pros and cons and utility kilts follow the same pattern. Like the second kilt type just discussed, utility kilts have their specific features that result in particular advantages and disadvantages. Some of them are given below:
Advantages of Utility Kilts
- Working kilts have increased comfort with flexible movement.
- They are made with strong fabric with extreme care because of their job nature.
- You get different pockets and hardware fulfilling utility purposes.
- Utility kilts are a fashion statement since they can be worn up or down for unique appearances.
- As everyday wear they are not limited to specific occasions.
- All-weather suitability is another plus point to this product.
Disadvantages of Working Kilts
- They might be less cozy because of having a rugged fabric that has to last longer.
- Wearing a kilt, especially a utility kilt at formal events, can draw unwanted attention and stares, which you may find uncomfortable.
- Though suitable for outdoor activities, they are not perfect for every event.
- Utility kilts receive less appraisal compared to tartan kilts.
- Their connection to Scottish heritage and family history is compromised.
Utility vs. Traditional Kilts: Which One Is Better!
Now that we know the pros and cons of both traditional kilts and utility kilts, now is the time to find the better one for different occasions. Relying on the features, suitability at different types of events may vary as well.
For Formal Occasions: For formal gatherings, traditional kilts remain as victorious because they are made with ceremonial events in mind and feature quality wool, tartan patterns, and jackets and sporrans as accessories. More informal, utility kilts are appropriate for daily wear.
For Everyday Wear: If we talk about better kilts as everyday wear, we find utility kilts more suitable. Their strong fabric and adaptation for formal and casual occasions vote for them.
For Outdoor Activities: Everyone knows which is a better selection for outdoor activities. Definitely, it is a utility kilt because of their rugged fabric, extraordinary focus on make, exceptional pleats, and a number of hardware like extra pockets, D-rings, chains, etc.
Browse IKS to Find the Ideal One for You
So, have you made up your mind to buy the next kilt? We believe the query about the ideal one among traditional and utility kilts might not be bothering you anymore. No matter what kind of kilt you want, IKS, an exceptional online brand, dealing with kilts and their accessories worldwide, has a large collection for you with handsome discounts on every product. So, grab the opportunity and buy your product as a priority.