Rekel

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Rekel, or Lange Rekel (plural rekelech) is a type of coat worn mainly by Hasidic Jewish men during the Jewish work-week (Monday-Friday and Sunday).

Rekelech are generally made of a black or navy wool blend or of worsted wool. Today some are made of 100% polyester. Interestingly, many Hassidim in the past did not wear wool clothing, and the new polyester rekelech actually make it easier to keep this old custom. They tend to be light, and thinner than the average suit coat, since they are generally worn throughout the year.

The most common type of rekel is the double-breasted variety, but several other styles exist. These include a single-breasted version (typical of the Breslover Hasidim), and concealed button version, which many Gerer, Bobover and Sanz-Klausenburger Hasidim wear. There is also a concealed button singe breasted version, which is also common to the Breslov Hasidim. All rekelech share a right over left button style, the opposite of what one would find on most men's clothing.

As with most Haredi Jewish clothing today, rekelech tend to be darkly colored; black and navy blue are favorite color choices. It is interesting to note that in recent times rekelech with pinstripes or other patterns have caught on, particularly with the more colorful Breslov, Bobov, and Sanz-Klausenbug Hasidim.

Prior to the use of the rekel as standard Hasidic garb, hasidic coats were generally buttonless, white robes with black or multi-color stripes, held together by a gartel. The change in Hasidic dress occurred towards the end of the 19th century, when the Jewish Emancipation became successful and many European limitations on Jewish Clothing were abolished. The old style is still maintained by many communities in Jerusalem, even non-Hasidic ones.

Though the rekel was intended for weekday use, some Hasidim wear one on Shabbat. A proper Shabbat coat is called a bekishe. A bekishe is usually made of polyester or silk.