What the hell is a UtiliKilt, you may well ask? It's an American-made garment for men modeled after the traditional Scottish Kilt. For the past few years while attending the annual Finger Lakes Rally in Watkins Glen, NY there was an older gentleman who wandered about the campsite that everyone called "The KiltMeister." It was the first time I'd seen a kilt without a traditional tartan. It just seemed like a great way to relax and "cool off" after a long, hot riding day in leathers.
I did a little research and they WEREN'T really cheap. But, I did start seeing more and more men at an odd event here or there wearing one. And this year, at Americade, there was even ANOTHER company with a booth at the TourExpo!
So, I decided to go for it. Went through the sizing process and ordered the original Utilikilt in olive khaki. When it arrived, it fit perfectly and felt very cool. Finally wore it in public this past weekend at the Ramapo 500:
It's great "Apres Riding Wear." Highly recommended (once you're OFF the bike, that is). Check my new profile picture! And sing along with the Poxy Boggards!
I bought a couple back in '02 (geez, the prices have increased since then) and really enjoy their comfort and utility- plus they certainly are a conversation starter. I even used to wear them when I worked at Cycle Gear- my customers thought they were great! I highly recommend non-bifurcated clothing.
Peter: I was surprised a bit this past weekend. My friends were amused but I got lots of interested conversations from complete strangers (and more than a few stares from the ladies).
Well, in this particular case, I didn't feel like doing a "Britney Spears" exiting my tent... so no, not THIS time. Never know when those damned papparazzi are lurking about.
I keep looking at utilikilts. I've got a real one. Old School, no sewed pleats, you fold, roll and wear. The whole 7 yards. Wool.
Surprising, it's quite comfortable over a wide range of temps. Colder weather you unwrap the part that goes over the shoulder ( the "plaid" is a separate part on modern kilts, but it's all one piece on a traditional one. ) hot, you fold it down and wear it around the waist. I don't tell if I go regimental.
Well then most of the time I wear a kilt. This one time I was unsure of how much of a "show" I'd be providing getting in and out of that tent, so I opted for modesty over authenticity.
Just needs an Erik Buell Racing codpiece. Utilikilts sure aren't going to be a fashion revolution at their pricing level. The Tuxedo model is the one a friend wants the groom wearing at her wedding. Does anyone else automatically hear pipes when they see a kilt?
Does anyone else automatically hear pipes when they see a kilt?
Many years ago on Cape Breton Island I picked up a cassette tape of Highland pipers. I used to stick it in the stereo on my K1200LT and crank it up at biker rallies.