Various types of fabrics can be used to make the hakama but of all the available materials the cotton hakama is the most favored. Hakama is one of Japan’s ancient clothing which dates back to the samurais. At first the hakama was meant to be worn by horse riding soldiers however after sometime these samurai warriors were asked to dismount their steeds and proceed on foot instead. Even as foot soldiers the samurais preferred wearing the hakama since it was not only comfortable and light weight it also was incredibly useful during combat. Thanks to the design of the skirt like garment which skimmed the ankles of the wearer the hakama often gave the illusion that the samurai was gliding or floating instead of walking. Aside from this the length also manages to hide the warriors footwork techniques thus their opponent has difficulty figuring out what their next move would be or what counter attack to use.

Leather material was unavailable during the time the cotton hakama was invented. Since it was impossible to obtain there as a need to find a substitute and since cotton was available this became a good choice. Another ideal option back then was silk but the hakama made of this material were often reserved for more formal functions, special occasions, events and festivities and not for battle. For obvious reasons the silk hakama was more expensive and it was not ideal for combat because the fabric was not as light as cotton. Aside from samurais local folks like farmers and other men started to wear the cotton hakama. Structured in a skirt like fashion many found the style comfortable and gave them more freedom in movement. Versions with “leg partitions” were also used mainly to help preserver the Modesty of the wearer. This was particularly the case when the cotton hakama became a choice wear for a number of martial arts practices. Since women also joined in it was essential that their hakama would be more suitable for the sports arena. Iaido, archery, kendo, aikido are some disciplines that use the cotton hakama.

Aside from the cotton hakama and the silk version some other fabric materials can be used. Cotton polyester blends, satin, rayon, tetoron and a selection of synthetic fibers can be utilized to create a hakama. Often times the fabric used is in the digression of the wearer or the event it is to be worn at. Like many traditional garments there are sets reserved for formal events and sets for casual wear. Then and now the cotton hakama is by far the most favored since cotton is accessible, it is also easy to care for and maintain. There are no special instructions for washing or pressing the fabric unlike when using satin or silk.

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Traditional garments are often expensive because authenticity is important there are some ancient pieces that have inexpensive versions like the cheap hakama. The hakama plays second fiddle to Japan’s most famous traditional garment, the kimono. Widely known across the world the kimono overshadows many of Japan’s other ancient clothing outfits. The hakama is a garment that dates back many hundreds of years ago. It was initially crafted to cater to horsemen who seem to experience various difficulties like chaffing, bruising etc. Even after horsemen were disbanded or rather dismounted from their horses, the samurai warriors who became foot soldiers still preferred to wear the hakama. Resembling a skirt tied around the waist, the garment flares down to the ankles its most distinguishing characteristics would be the 7 pleats that many foreigners mistake as simply ornamental. Samurais on the other hand beg to differ as these folds are symbolic of the virtues that constitute as the core being of a warrior. Even up to now where many martial arts disciplines have adapted the use of hakama outfits these pleats still hold significant meaning.

Perhaps the reason that you can find cheap hakama clothes is mainly because of its more “mainstream” utilization. Another reason that there are cheap hakama outfits would mainly be due to the fact that the initial intention for the garment was to be worn by soldiers. Again it was more of a combative uniform thus lightweight easy to source fabrics were used. Since leather material wasn’t easily available during the olden times the tailors had to find a substitute. Commonly the hakama is made of cotton which is light weigh and affordable. The fabric used does not have any fancy prints or brocade designs and embroideries which is again another reason for the cheap hakama. The structure is quite simple, there are no frills except for the pleats and there are no expensive accessories to go with the outfit. Unlike the traditional kimono for instance the hakama is worn by many men on a near daily basis, it is also used in various martial arts practices. Therefore it is illogical not to have cheap hakama garments when wear and tear during sports is very possible. Larger utilization and its simple design makes it easier for anyone to replicate the clothing. Artisans are not necessary as is the case with the kimono. Mass production in general lowers the cost so it is easy to find a cheap hakama. Sports stores, specialty shops and even stores online sell cheap hakama garments in various sizes and colors. Though worn mostly by men, women on the occasion other than in the sports arena have been known to wear a hakama. Graduation ceremonies are the common events to spot females in a hakama. Whether it is the skirt version or the type with “leg” divisions the hakama is an integral part of the Japanese culture.

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Regardless of how famous a figure the samurai warrior is many people are unaware of the samurai hakama. Those who encounter the word for the first time would automatically assume that it meant a station, position or ranking of a samurai warrior. Japan is a rich culture that unlike many others has managed to hold onto and continuously practice many of their traditions. Which includes wearing ancient Japanese clothing especially during special events. Of all the traditional garments of Japan it is unfortunate the foreigners are only most likely familiar with the kimono. This outfit is made iconic perhaps thanks to the geisha which is a prominent figure that many associate to the Japanese culture. Amusingly, though a large number of individuals come across various period films they still are unaware of the other garments such as the samurai hakama.

Samurais are the soldiers best known for their swordsmanship which is often depicted greatly in many films. What is not often depicted is how the samurai had gone from horseman to foot soldier. Initially when the samurai hakama was invented it was to help protect the rider from various difficulties encountered while riding a steed. Bruising, chaffing etc. where some afflictions that were resolved thanks to the use of the samurai hakama. The hakama was such a comfortable garment as it was lightweight, simple and straightforward making it easy to get in and out of thus making it ideal garments for soldiers. Even as foot soldiers the samurai continued to wear the hakama for the aforementioned attributes. Other than these factors they soon realized that the length of the samurai hakama, which happens to fall around the ankles was essential in hiding their footwork techniques during combat. Not only did they camouflage the samurai hakama also managed to fool opponents into thinking that the warrior was floating or gliding.

Compared to the elaborate kimono worn by geishas and many women the hakama is rather plain save for the seven folds that many assume are adornments. These pleats however represent virtues that are integral to a samurai or even to many martial arts disciplines to date. What used to be clothing bottoms for men can now be seen being worn by women. However it is more likely to find a woman wearing a hakama during a graduation ceremony or in the martial arts arena. Japanese men on the other hand like using the hakama during many special occasions, events, ceremonies and festivities. The kimono they pair with their hakama is likely to be a basic color with no brocade designs or prints except in some instances wherein crests and symbols are embroidered to the back of the kimono. The samurai hakama for all its simple elegance remains unknown to many however with the present adaptations and the growing interest in Japanese culture and fashion more people are slowly being introduced to this often overshadowed ancient clothing.

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Every sport has its own designated uniform such is also the case with the iaido hakama. Iaido is a martial arts discipline that centers on the art of sword play or swordsmanship. To roughly translate iaido in English would mean “the way of mental presence and immediate action.” Initially iaido had a more literal translation which was “art of drawing the sword” however for some reason or another it was replaced in the 1930’s. Hakama on the other hand refers to one of the many traditional clothing garments in Japan with the kimono leading the pack. The hakama is a skirt like outfit worn my horsemen and eventually by samurai warriors who had been dismounted from their steeds during the Shogun Era. Secured around the waist the garment flares down to the ankles. Originally it was designed to have no leg divisions and in essence is indeed a skirt. Instead of embroideries and prints on the fabric the iaido hakama features 7 folds, five of which are in front and the remaining two can be found a the back. These pleats are not only for aesthetic purposes but also hold a deeper meaning for the samurai warrior. For each pleat represents a virtue that is not only important to the warrior of olden times but is also of great significance to many martial artists to date.

Eventually a version of the hakama which included “legs” also became widely used. Particularly in many martial arts practices as it helped protect the modesty of the wearer particularly the women. Aside from being worn during a sport the iaido hakama is rarely worn by females. Often times the only other occasion in which women can be seen wearing a hakama is during graduation ceremonies and it is most likely paired with a beautiful kimono. The iaido hakama when worn is typically partnered with a simple kimono top of an equally solid color. At the most, designs are limited to embroideries depicting a crest or symbol. Males on the other hand can be seen wearing the hakama in various occasions, ceremonies and events besides in the sporting arena. The iaido hakama is a simple straightforward garment. It has no frills, it is lightweight thus allows better movement. Significantly its design has allowed the wearer to hide their footwork skills during combat as well as give the illusion of floating or gliding on the ground. Hence its popularity during the samurai days as well as in modern combat events is understandable. Amusingly the design of the iaido hakama has been translated into various contemporary designs by many fashion labels. This only proves that even the simplest of garments can be appreciated time after time by many people.

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Not known by name however many recognize the Japanese hakama visually. Hakama is an ancient garment that is often seen being worn by Japanese men in various period films.This outfit was designed to help protect horsemen from experiencing discomfort from too many hours of being on horseback. Bruising and chaffing are common afflictions of these riders. Sometime during the Shogun Era, horsemen were asked to dismount their steeds and instead traverse on foot. Samurai warriors retained the Japanese hakama as part of their clothing since it not only gave a more unified look it also established their position in the country. Eventually they also learned that the Japanese hakama proved to be a useful combat tactic tool. Thanks to its long hemlines the hakama was able to disguise the footwork movements of soldiers during battle. It also afforded them the illusion of gliding and floating which managed to fool many of their opponents thus resulting to combat victories.

Closely resembling a tube like skirt the Japanese hakama originally was made without “legs.” The main idea of this design was that it allowed more movement compared other garments. It was also lightweight making it ideal to travel in as well as give the warriors the speed and agility needed during battle. Like many ancient garments the Japanese hakama is made in a simple straightforward manner. Since it was initially worn by soldiers, samurais etc. there was a need to create a clothing piece that was easy to travel in, easy to combat it and easy to get in and out of. Tapered and tied around the waist the Japanese hakama tends to flare down towards the hemline which is around the ankles. There is both a casual and formal version of the hakama. The distinction lies mainly in the type of fabric material used. The Japanese hakama itself is devoid of frills and patterns most of the time the accompanying kimono bears the brocade or embroidered design typically a crest or symbol of some sort. Solid colors are used with blacks, grays and reds being a favorite choice. Today aside from special functions, gatherings and the like the Japanese hakama is also utilized as a uniform in various martial arts disciplines. Since these sports are open to both men and women the usual type of Japanese hakama used are the ones that have “legs” or those that still resemble a skirt but are hiding pant leg structures beneath. Outside of the martial arts arena very few women would be seen wearing the hakama other than in graduation ceremonies when it is paired with beautiful kimonos. Though the Japanese hakama does not enjoy worldwide recognition like the kimono it still remains an equally essential garment in the Japanese culture.

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Among some of the most underrated traditional garments of Japan is the kimono hakama combination. Many are familiar with the kimono it being largely associated to the Japanese culture although coming from Chinese origins. The kimono refers mostly to a good number of Japanese ancient garments but is more widely recognized as the silk ankle length robes commonly worn by geishas in various films. The hakama on the other hand is more or less the less popular of the two. Though it is another article of clothing seen in many Japanese period films a lot of people recognize it only by appearance and both by name. Aside from samurais the hakama is worn in many martial arts disciplines today. Hakama is a garment that resembles a skirt. It is long often falling down to the ankles, tied around the waist and either has “legs” or none at all. The hakama was first worn by horsemen to keep their legs from chaffing or bruising from long hours on horseback. When riders were dismounted from their steeds and instead became foot soldiers the kimono hakama set was still the garment of choice by samurais. Thanks to the length of the hakama it was easy for the samurai warriors to hide their footwork during battle, it also allowed them the illusion of gliding or floating. In many martial arts disciplines the kimono hakama used is often the version with legs as this works to help preserve the modesty of the wearer particularly the females. Distinctive to this garment are the seven folds that adorn the front and the back. Five of the pleats can be seen in front while the remaining two are at the back. For the outsider these folds hold little significance other than aesthetic design for the warriors and even martial artists these pleats represent a deeper meaning as each one symbolizes a certain virtue.

Kimono hakama sets are worn by women mostly in graduation ceremonies and when practicing a martial arts discipline. Aside from that women are more possibly seen wearing a kimono alone instead of the kimono hakama combination. Unlike the traditional kimono the ones used in a kimono hakama set are not as expensive since the garment is more functionally driven rather than an intricate wearable art piece like the ancient kimono seen in many special events, occasions, festivities and the like. The kimono hakama group follows a simple straightforward design. Both are no frills and do not rely on closure pieces such as zips, hooks, buttons , etc. Instead a belt or sash keeps it in place. More often than not a kimono hakama set follows a simple solid color block instead of patterned fabrics. Aikido, archery and kendo are just some of the disciplines where participants can be seen wearing a kimono hakama combination. Since it is being utilized beyond traditional and cultural environments it is much easier to locate and purchase a kimono hakama set.

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Traditional garments are often revered for their amazing designs and fabrics this is not the case however with the hakama pattern. As part of the ancient outfits of Japan the hakama traces its roots back to the samurais and Shogun era. Favored by horsemen for its soft, light weight material which protects the rider on horseback. Even after horsemen were dismounted and samurais were turned into foot soldiers the hakama garment remained. Samurai warriors not only liked the its light weight material which made it also ideal for traveling on foot it also gave them the sense of uniformity thus making them easily identifiable. Before long the warriors realized that the hakama also proved to be an advantage during battle. Due to its length the samurai was offered the illusion of floating and gliding. It also allowed them to conceal their footwork techniques which proved more than useful during battle.

Generally many traditional Japanese garments follow a simple structure. The hakama pattern is another example of the straightforward, seamless style of the garment. Following a simple tube skirt like hakama pattern with no “legs” was the original design. This style is still being used by some but later innovations included leg divisions. For some this facilitated faster movement and was also useful in preserving ones modesty. This is particularly true when used in various martial arts disciplines. A distinct design of the hakama pattern are the seven pleats found on the fabric. These 7 folds symbolized virtues that were integral to the samurai practice and is elemental in many martial arts disciplines to date. Compared to many traditional garb the hakama pattern on the fabric is neither embroidered or brocade. In fact the fabric itself is in a simple solid color. The use of one color block not only simplifies the whole look it also allows a more unified style for the wearer. Practitioners of various martial arts disciplines such as kendo, aikido, taekwondo, archery and the like often purchase their hakama from a supplier. Similarly there are various shops not only in Japan but across the globe that one can easily find a hakama in. Those who prefer to have their hakama custom made or are handy with a needle and thread can easily find a hakama pattern. Many sewing resources such as magazines, books and even websites online allow individuals to easily attain a hakama pattern. The hakama pattern is for many a simple sewing task. It is relatively straightforward and uses a sash, belt or obi to keep it securely in place instead of closure pieces. Amusingly the hakama pattern can be seen in many of today’s more modern fashion pieces. This proves that something old can be applicable to the modern times making it wearable to everyone.

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In every sport or discipline a set of clothes or uniforms are allocated such is the case with the kendo hakama. Kendo for those who are not familiar with the sport is a martial arts discipline originating from Japan. It is famous in the country as well as in other nations. The word kendo means ” Way of The Sword.” The sport is a modern day Japanese martial art version based on samurai swordsmanship. Kendo is a discipline which involves both physical and mental prowess in order to succeed. Combining both strong martial arts values along with the physical aspects needed in sports.The concept of the sport is to apply the principles of the katana to be able to mold the human character. Cultivation of spirit, retain esteem, human courtesy and honor. The discipline also involves showing sincerity an a pursuit for excellence in everything a person does. As a result the practitioner leans to love one’s country, the society, himself or herself and be able to contribute to cultural development by promoting peace amongst people.

Kendo hakama refers to the bottom piece of the uniform worn by kendo enthusiasts. The hakama itself traces its roots back to centuries ago when a garment was needed to protect a horseman’s legs whilst on his steed. Some time later when samurais were dismounted and mainly traversed on foot the hakama remained a clothing of choice. This article of clothing resembles a skirt and like other traditional Japanese garments it follows a relatively simple structure. Essentially the kendo hakama when worn by samurais had no “legs” or leg “divisions.” One can say that the kendo hakama pants was truly a skirt than trousers. Kendo hakama garments are tapered at the waist and often flare down towards the ankles. The style was favored by samurais since it not only once protected them on horseback it also camouflaged their footwork techniques during battle. It also gave the illusion that the samurai warrior was gliding or floating. This illusion made them victorious in the battlefield. Thus it is because of the same reason that it is favored in many martial arts practices. It allows participants to focus and be on their guard always. Since kendo is a sport of mental and physical exertion the use of kendo hakama pants tests both of these elements. Modern versions of the kendo hakama now have legs which help protect the modesty of its wearers and of course depending on the sport facilitates faster movement. Aside from its functional purpose there are symbolic meanings behind the unique design of the kendo hakama. For the warrior the seven pleats or folds on the fabric accompanied seven virtues which they believe are the core components in their discipline. To date these 7 folds are still very much a part of the design unfortunately not many wearers value these virtues as much as the samurais had done in the past.

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For many aikido practitioners the aikido hakama is nothing new. The Land of the Rising Sun has one of the richest culture’s in the world. As fascinating as their culture is, it is equally interesting to see how the Japanese people have managed to hold on to and continuously practice a great number of their traditions. Unlike other nations the country retains the use of a majority of their traditional garments in many special occasions if not in their day to day lives. The most famous of all ancient clothing is the iconic Japanese kimono. Originally from the Qing Dynasty in China the Japanese kimono is a simple structured T shaped robe with wide sleeves and a hemline that skims the ankles of the wearer. Kimono robes are so popular than western cultures have as well adapted the look and created modern versions which can be worn along with current contemporary pieces and trends. Unfortunately many are unaware of that other than the kimono there are ancient garments still being widely used. Though a number of them are encountered anywhere it is perhaps its origin is unbeknownst to individuals.One said article of clothing is the aikido hakama.

The aikido hakama is a pair of skirt like trousers that can be seen worn by the martial arts practitioner. Those in the sport refer to it mainly as the aikido hakama however it is not limited to the sport alone. In fact the hakama pants is a traditional piece of clothing meant for samurai warriors. This garment resembling a skirt is long, tied at the waist and flares down to the ankles. Its most distinguishing marks are the 7 pleats that can be found on the material. Initially the concept was meant to be worn in order to protect the horseman’s legs since leather was hard to come by in Japan during the olden days plus it was too heavy to use. Even after the samurais dismounted their steed and became more like foot soldiers the decision to wear hakama pants remained. The garment’s style not only set them apart and made them more unidentifiable it also managed to hide their footwork during battle as well as give the illusion that they are gliding or floating.

Since its creation there have been various styles of hakama pants. Today the most commonly seen are the aikido hakama or joba hakama which is a more general term for the pair used in many martial arts sports. One of the earlier versions was basically a skirt, tube like in form and had no leg dividers. As time wore on versions that included “legs” were utilized. Aside from the aesthetic function of the aikido hakama lies its deeper symbolic meaning. The seven pleats for instance is not a mere adornment on the garment itself. These 7 pleats or folds found in the aikido hakama each has a symbolic meaning. There are 5 folds found in front and the last 2 are at the back.

Seven folds and their corresponding meaning in no particular order:

• Chugi = loyalty, fidelity, devotion

• Gi = justice, righteousness, integrity

• Makoto = sincerity, honesty, reality

• Meiyo = honor, credit, glory; also reputation, dignity, prestige

• Jin = humanity, charity, benevolence

• Rei = etiquette, courtesy, civility (also means bow/obeisance)

• Yuki = courage, valor, bravery

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