Description

Experience Timeless Samurai Comfort and Elegance!

The Umanori Hakama (Traditional Samurai Pants) represent the oldest and most authentic style of Japanese trousers, with origins tracing back to the 6th century or possibly even earlier. Traditionally worn at the waist and draped gracefully down to the ankles, these pants were designed for both practical use and ceremonial occasions. Samurai favored the Umanori (horse-riding) style over the skirt-like andon hakama, due to their convenience and comfort while mounted.

Historically significant, these traditional pants lack the koshita (raised backboard), a later addition introduced during the early Edo Period (1603 AD). Initially crafted from simple cloth made from kuzu (arrowroot plant fibers), the hakama evolved significantly over time. By the Muromachi Period (1336–1573), a lighter variant known as kakko was popular for summer use, eventually transitioning to cotton—a durable and comfortable material favored by samurai and Daimyo alike. Formal hakama, crafted from luxurious silk known as sendai hira, rose to prominence in the late Sengoku era (circa 1645 AD).

Our authentically reproduced Umanori Hakama reflect designs originating in the Muromachi Period, featuring precise traditional construction. They are secured at the waist by four himo (straps)—two longer straps attached at the front, and two shorter straps at the rear. The front himo wrap around to tie at the front, while the rear himo wrap through the front straps, securing comfortably under the garment. Seven deep, symbolic pleats adorn the hakama, representing the seven virtues of Bushido essential to samurai philosophy. The asymmetrical arrangement of pleats (three to the right, two to the left) exemplifies traditional Japanese aesthetic values.

Iron Mountain Armory meticulously crafts each pair of Umanori Hakama using traditional cotton fabric, ensuring comfort, durability, and historical accuracy. Options for ankle lace ties transform the hakama into a versatile kukui hakama, allowing wearers to secure the garment below the knees, ideal when paired with armor or kyahan (leg wraps).

Perfectly suited for martial arts practitioners, historical reenactors, cosplay, LARP, SCA members, or anyone passionate about authentic samurai clothing, these traditional pants effortlessly blend historical significance with practical modern usage.

Our samurai clothing and accessories have been internationally recognized, featuring prominently in films and documentaries, including Netflix and Smithsonian Channel’s acclaimed “Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan.”

Key Features & Benefits:

• Authentic Umanori Design: Historically accurate pants designed for practicality and elegance.
• Quality Cotton Fabrics: Durable, breathable, and comfortable material.
• Customizable Fit: Personalized sizing to ensure an optimal traditional appearance.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for martial arts training, reenactments, cosplay, or traditional ceremonial wear.
• Optional Ankle Ties: Convert easily to a kukui hakama for enhanced versatility.

Ordering Tips: Custom measurements provided are guidelines; minor adjustments may be made by our seamstress to ensure an authentic traditional fit.

Product Crafting Time: Please allow our skilled seamstress at Iron Mountain Armory an average of 5 to 8 days for the careful processing and crafting of your Umanori Hakama. This timeframe accounts for both order handling and meticulous garment construction.

Accessories:

• Hikitate Eboshi – Add a traditional cloth hat to your order, traditionally worn by Samurai
• Sarashi Belt – A traditional long cotton belt, used by Samurai to to secure their katana
• Waraji Sandals – Bamboo straw sandals commonly used by samurai
• Waraji-Gake – Traditional type of Japanese sock that is to be worn together with the Waraji sandals
• Tabi Socks – Two toe section sock for use with sandals
• Yugake – Traditional samurai gloves