Skirts Weren’t a Problem for Warriors

Some people hear "skirts" and think softness. Delicacy. Fragility.

Yeah… history didn't get that memo.

Let's look at four iconic warrior cultures that were all about discipline, bravery, and strength—and yep, they wore what we'd now call skirts

Samurai: The Non-Bifurcated Hakama

The image of a samurai is one of grace, precision, and deadly focus. While in combat they wore umanori hakama (divided like wide pants), samurai were also known to wear andon bakama, or non-bifurcated (no leg separation) hakama, during formal ceremonies, meditation, and cultural practices like tea ceremony and calligraphy.

These garments were long, flowing, and pleated—visually indistinguishable from a skirt in motion or at rest. In the samurai code of bushidō, discipline extended to appearance. Clothing was an extension of internal order, not a signal of weakness.

Spartans: The Periskelis

The Spartans didn't mess around. Known for brutal training from childhood and a ruthless military culture, these warriors often wore the periskelis—a short, non-bifurcated wrap or skirt that allowed complete freedom of movement in battle. It was functional, minimal, and effective.

If you've only ever imagined them in red cloaks and six-packs, check out this breakdown of the periskelis and how it was central to Spartan military dress.

Highland Warriors: The Féileadh Mòr

Long before kilts were modernized, Highland warriors in Scotland fought in the féileadh mòr, AKA the great kilt. It was a large piece of wool belted at the waist and draped over the shoulder. This early form of kilt was both practical and symbolic, protecting against the elements while signaling clan identity.

Curious why we get so weird about kilts vs. skirts? This video pokes fun at stereotypical masculinity and why we need not differentiate.

Greece's Elite Guard: The Fustanella

Today's Evzones, Greece's ceremonial presidential guard, wear the fustanella, a striking white skirt with up to 400 pleats symbolizing 400 years of Ottoman occupation. These are elite soldiers, chosen for their discipline, endurance, and physical strength.

Their uniform is more than tradition—it's a daily, visible statement of resilience and national pride. You can view pictures and read more in Think Kilts Have Pleats? Enter the Fustanella.

So Why Are We Still Arguing About Skirts?

The idea that skirts are inherently "feminine" is a modern, western construct.

If you're hesitant, you're not alone. Many men who want to keep a masculine style wrestle with how to wear skirts. The Masculine Approach to Wearing Skirts unpacks this and offers some tools.

If Spartans didn't worry about showing some leg, maybe you don't need to either.