This particular detail in Sakumo Hatake’s attire sparks an interesting theory about Kakashi’s lineage in Naruto that Masashi Kishimoto was keeping from fans.

SUMMARY

Kakashi Hatake has always been an integral part of Naruto, and the same is true for his father, Sakumo Hatake, who was a mystery for the most part.
Sakumo Hatake’s attire in the series has an interesting detail that hints at Kakashi’s connection with the strongest clans of Konoha.
Aside from this theory, it could also be a hidden proof of Sakumo Hatake’s connection with the big shots of Konoha.

Kakashi Hatake was one of the first characters in Naruto who defined suave with their personality. Even though he was a prominent character throughout the series, his clan wasn’t explored at all. The only two representatives of the Hatake Clan that we had were Kakashi and his father, Sakumo Hatake. Based on that, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the Hatake Clan was a force to be reckoned with.

Sakumo and Kakashi Hatake in Naruto Shippuden | Credits: Studio Pierrot Co. Ltd.

Just like Kakashi was always a beloved character, Sakumo was a fan-favorite enigma. All the information we had about him was through Kakashi’s flashback. His brief appearance made him a subject of curiosity for fans. A certain detail about him could be the answer to many questions that we have about the father-son duo. Here’s what this detail is, and how Masashi Kishimoto might have brushed off a huge revelation about Kakashi’s lineage.

One Detail in Naruto Sparks Questions About Kakashi’s Lineage

Throughout Naruto, Masashi Kishimoto didn’t reveal much information about the Hatake Clan. Aside from the fact that both characters who belonged to the clan were prodigies. Fans have always been curious about Sakumo’s character arc, and a small detail in his attire sparks numerous theories. Much like Kakashi, Sakumo Hatake wears the Jonin outfit with a green vest.

One sleeve of Sakumo Hatake’s outfit is different | Credits: Studio Pierrot Co. Ltd.

However, one of his sleeves in that outfit resembles the robe worn by Naruto. This detail was discussed on Reddit, and fans came up with interesting explanations to explain the sleeve. The red spiral is a symbol of Uzushiogakure, as revealed by Kushina, but the triangular pattern doesn’t have any explanation besides being a symbol of the will of fire, that was changed from flames to triangles.

The sleeve makes one wonder if Sakumo shared a special relationship with the Hokage or Uzushiogakure. These possibilities hint that the Hatake Clan may have shared some connection with the Uzumaki Clan, the Senju Clan, or both. This could explain Kakashi and Sakumo’s powers and why they were feared by other villages.

Young Kakashi uses Chidori and Sharingan simultaneously | Credits: Studio Pierrot Co. Ltd.

Moreover, even at a young age, Kakashi was able to use high-level techniques like Chidori which required immense chakra. Later on, his chakra levels were compromised by the Sharingan, but the initial high reserves could be a result of his potential connection with the Uzumaki Clan.

A Theory That Will Forever Remain Unanswered

Kakashi uses the Sharingan against Pain | Credits: Studio Pierrot Co. Ltd.

It needs to be mentioned that this theory emerged from a singular sleeve, which could simply be a stylistic choice. Another possibility could be that Sakumo was affiliated with a secret association just like Asuma or was directly working under the Hokage as a special agent, just like the Anbu.

As intriguing as this theory is, it will probably remain unanswered unless Kishimoto decides to release a Sakumo Hatake one-shot. Even though the mangaka makes this theory canon, it would be such a mind-blowing twist because of the sheer amount of time we spent with Kakashi without knowing the specifics of his connection with two of the strongest clans.

Naruto is available to stream on Netflix.