A Sporran is a decorative pouch made of leather or fur and silver or other ornamentation that is worn on a chain or belt around the waist allowing the pouch to lay on the front torso, below the waste of the person wearing the kilt. Since the traditional kilt does not have pockets, the sporran serves as a wallet, and not uncommonly contains a hip-flask. The sporran protects a person's decency as the kilt is traditionally worn without under garments. Historically, the sporran was used to carry a day's rations, some believe it served as armour for a vulnerable area of the torse.

• "Day Sporrans" are usually simple brown or black leather pouches with little adornment. These "day" sporrans often have three leather tassels and some Celtic knots embossed in the leather. Traditionalists prefer brown or buff colored sporrans, belts, and shoes for day wear.

• "Dress Sporrans" are larger than the day variety, and are more ornate. They usually have chrome or silver cantles trimming the top of the pouch and a fur covered face with fur or hair tassels. The cantle may contain intricate filigree or etchings of Celtic knots. The top of the cantle may have a set stone, jewel, or emblems such as Saint Andrew, a thistle, Clan or Masonic symbols.

• "Military Sporrans" may be worn with regimental attire. Pipers will often wear the most flamboyant sporrans with long horsehair that swishes from side to side as the piper marches.

The sporran hangs just below the belt buckle; and much effort is made to match their style and design. The kilt belt buckle can be very ornate, and contain similar motifs to the sporran cantle and the Sgian Dubh. When playing golf, driving a car, dancing or engaging in any activity where a heavy pouch might hurt, the wearer often turns the sporran and chain around the waist to let it hang on his hip in a more casual position.

External links

• Tampa Sporrans Sporran Images
• Morrison Sporran Company
• The Scottish Weaver
• e-Kilts Sporrans - more than 160 different types available, including Morrison Sporrans retail outlet.
• The Tartan Box Scottish Product Internet Shop- Morrison Sporran Retailer
• McAllans Highlandwear Sporran company from the Highlands of Scotland

Scottish dress

Sporran | Спорран