If you haven’t ordered a custom made kilt before, it can be quite confusing with regards to which length you should choose. Kilts typically come in either 5 Yard or 8 Yard lengths. There is no right or wrong answer, as both are high quality garments. Of course, since there is more fabric in an 8 Yard than a 5 yard, the 8 Yard is a little more expensive. When you opt for the larger length, this will affect the weight and the pleats. We have detailed more information about this below to help you decide.

5 Yard or 8 Yard Kilt?

Pleats

If we are being honest, the front of the 5 Yard Kilt will look broadly similar to the front of the 8 Yard Kilt. This typically will mean that there will be two layers, which both lie flat, with one layer overlapping the other.

The notable difference between the two is when you take a look at the pleats on the back. Since there is more material being used in the 8 Yard compared to the 5 Yard, this means there will be a lot more pleats, which will give the kilt a nicer appearance, since each pleat is folded a little more densely and won’t open out as much when you decide to move around.

Below is an example the back of a 5 Yard.

Weight of the Kilt

When you are deciding on which length of product to go with, you will need to take a look the weight. If you live in quite a hot country for example, you may wish to go with the smaller length, so it is a little cooler. There is nothing worse than being too hot in a kilt! For example, if you plan to dance in your kilt, you may want a lighter garment. A casual kilt may be suitable for this purpose.

Based on our averages, the 5 Yard version is close to 40% lighter in weight than the heavier 8 Yard.  Of course, these weights do vary depending on the tartan you choose, because each tartan comes from a different mill. If you want to know the exact weight of a kilt we will make for you before you order, just contact us.

Tradition

If tradition is quite important to you, we would recommend that you go with the 8 Yard. This is certainly the most authentic version, as back when the kilt was originally worn by our ancestors, each kilt was manufactured using 8 yards of worsted wool.

The three yards of extra material provide the kilt with a fuller look which highlights confidence and pride, whilst maintaining the heritage. Also, if you decide to go with the 8 yard kilt, because of the pleats which are deeper than the 5 yard, you will achieve a better hang and the swing of your kilt will be really quite impressive.

You can find out more information about the history of the kilt by visiting Wikipedia.

Price Difference

As described above, there is a price difference between the two lengths. At publishing, the 8 Yard starts at $599 and the 5 Yard starts at $360. It is quite common for the 8 Yard kilt to be passed down to future descendants, so it is certainly worth investing in a kilt of this length.