During this time of the year, when the days start to get a little longer, our minds start to drift toward thinking about our summer plans. Unfortunately, these thoughts are usually interrupted when we walk outside and realise that the current temperature is only barely above freezing. While we still have a long way to go before its t-shirt weather in Scotland, it got us thinking about the warmth of a kilt. Whether you are wearing a kilt in the middle of winter or the height of summer, there isn’t a whole lot of difference in the level of warmth you feel in either season. Or is there?
Are Kilts warm enough for winter?
Traditional kilts are made from 8 yards of 13oz or 16oz, 100% worsted wool which is an inherently warm material. During the winter months, sheep are happy enough to be left outside in the elements thanks to their white coat, which should be the biggest giveaway when thinking about the warmth of a kilt. A kilt is also usually accompanied by other items like a kilt jacket and waistcoat in Full Kilt Outfits or a cosy wool jumper when worn dressed down. These accompanying items will also, almost always, be worn with kilt socks which are knee height. As a result, no matter which way you wear a kilt, it should always be warm enough for you to enjoy your winter day out.
Are Kilts too hot for summer?
After boasting about how warm kilts are, surely they can’t be a good choice for summer? Well, it all depends on what you wear with your kilt and the type of kilt you choose. The most obvious thing you can do when wearing a kilt to a summer event is choose lighter accompanying options. A lighter shirt, lighter socks and even choosing to forgo a waistcoat will all help. You can also look at the weight, length and material of the actual kilt. If you will most likely be wearing your kilt in summer or even abroad in hotter climates, choosing a 13oz, 7-yard kilt will help. Less material will equal less heat. There are also Polyviscose kilt options which are synthetic and don’t have the same heat retaining properties as wool. These kilts are less traditional but could be an option for people who live in the Caribbean, for example. A Ghillie Kilt Outfit is probably our favorite hot weather kilt outfit. This is a very traditional outfit and an appealing summer option as you don’t wear a jacket with it.
What is the best kilt for all-year wear?
Arguably the best option for people looking for a kilt for all seasons is a traditional 13oz, 8-yard kilt. Kilts made using 13oz tartan are warm, but not too warm to wear to a summer wedding and light enough to be comfortable, but not cold, in the winter months. Most events that you would be wearing a kilt to in winter would predominantly be held inside anyway so the warmth of it is less of an issue anyway. There’s also a wide array of tartan accessories to add an extra touch of cosyness to your kilt outfit like a lambswool tartan scarf or even a Mist tartan blanket. For the summer months, choosing to pair your kilt with light wool socks and a thinner shirt are really all you need to keep your outfit choice a little cooler. If all else fails, our Exclusive Mist Umbrella is just as good at being a sun shade as it is for keeping the rain off your head.
Here at MacGregor and MacDuff, we think a kilt is right for every occasion no matter the weather. This is because how you wear your kilt and what you wear with it will make all the difference in how warm or cool it is. If you ever need any help with ideas for a winter kilt outfit or a summer highlandwear ensemble, get in touch with us via email or over Virtual Appointment. We are always happy to help.