AAAhhh yes the hakama......in our dojo (in Western Australia) we're required to wear one from your first grade onwards (6th kyu) - it's really nice and comfy in winter....but in summer (as it is now) you are swimming in your own sweat.....lovely. it's also great when you're uke and getting up after a particularly spectacular flip....then trip on the hem But it does add a fluidity to your movements thats nice to watch....
