Description
Zazen robes made by Still Sitting consist of a kimono, hakama, and collar, and can be purchased as a full set or as single items. They are modeled on Buddhist clothing worn in Japan: the informal robes worn by Japanese Zen monks and nuns. Our lay robe set is made for comfortable sitting and working.
They come in two (2) pieces. The sturdy hakama is pleated to allow for easy folding of the legs. The light weight kimono has pockets in the sleeves for holding a handkerchief, wallet, keys. Together the robes make for functional and comfortable meditation wear and we offer a choice of traditional and velcro ties. Robes are made of sturdy poly-cotton poplin and twill that will hold its color for a long time. Crafted in Seattle, WA.
We also offer custom sized robes, if you do not see your size here.
The lapel on the kimono stops short of running underneath the hakama, so the lapel is always poking out at the waist line. I try to conceal it under the hakama and an obi, but it needs to run down the full length of the kimono.
Also, the hakama does not have a back board or a stick on the back which is usually there to tuck into the obi and holds the hakama up while tying, so my hakama is always falling down.
I found the need to purchase an obi elsewhere because the hakama would not stay up otherwise and an obi was not included. Perhaps there is a way to tie it that would keep it up, but there are no instructions on tying the hakama included, so I had to view online videos…and all others attach to an obi with a back board and stick.
The product is otherwise well made with sturdy fabric and is very warm and durable. And the customer service provided by Lidunn surrounding my shipping error was swift and friendly!
But with the issues listed above, I am mostly unable to wear it for anything except very special occasions. I cannot wear it as my daily practice robe. at the premium price point, I am grateful and yet disheartened with my purchase.
Hi Andrew — thanks for this, and for taking the time to spell it out so clearly. And I’m really glad to hear the fabric and construction are working for you.
You’re right to notice those differences. Our lay robe set isn’t built exactly like a traditional kimono + hakama setup. The lapel is shorter, and the hakama doesn’t have a koshiita or hera. For some folks that works fine, but for others—especially if you’re used to a more traditional setup—it can feel like something’s missing, just as you describe.
We also dropped the ball a bit on not including tying instructions. There are ways to tie the hakama so it sits more securely without an obi, and we’d be happy to show you what’s worked for us.
At the end of the day, though, it needs to work for your daily practice. If it’s not doing that, let’s talk—whether that’s helping you get it dialed in, or figuring out another solution.
Thanks again for the honest feedback—it’s really helpful.
All our best,
The Still Sitting team
2nd set of robes from Still Sitting. Good quality, washes well, would buy again.
I love my new robe. I wish it came with instructions for tying it. The material is much thinker than my last robe which is sure to keep me warmer in those cold winter mountain zendos
Hi Richard – we’ll work on some tying instructions to include with your lay robes. Thanks for the feedback!
The Still Sitting Team