In the hot and sticky Japanese summer months, staying cool can be a challenge. However, a resurgence in traditional suteteko (say stet-eh-ko) is making it a little bit easier. Fear not — these aren't your grandpa's long johns! Contemporary sutekeko are pants made of light-weight, breathable material and fall just below (or above) the knee. Once a boutique item (that we spotted a year ago), they are now available from major retailers like Uniqlo as well as dedicated shops. Great for lounging around the house, walking your dog or even on a first date if you dare . . . If it doesn't go well, at least you'll have the peace of mind knowing it wasn't because of your sweaty legs.

We've pinned a sampling of some of the huge variety of patterns and colors. Follow this and Japan Pulse's other boards on Pinterest.