I've done a great deal of sparring. Mostly with Karatekas and Taekwon-doists. I'd say that Aikido isn't made for sparring. It's really hard to use it that way. It's not impossible, but it is hard.
Funny point; I once did a kote gaeshi, but my partners glove came off. I was just about to throw him when it came off, so I just stood there with the glove in my hand. Then he hit me.
lol
/Patrik