If you're a fan of collectibles or street culture in the U.S., chances are you’ve come across the name Bearbrick. These quirky bear-shaped toys—known officially as Bearbricks—have become a staple in pop culture, fashion collaborations, and art collections around the world. But what exactly makes Bearbricks so popular? From exclusive drops to limited-edition art collabs, here's everything you need to know about Bearbricks, including their verity, where to buy them, and how to legit check Bearbrick products.
What Are Bearbricks?
Bearbrick (often stylized as BE@RBRICK) is a collectible toy designed and produced by the Japanese company Medicom Toy. These figures are shaped like a bear but feature a minimalistic design and a block-style body, resembling LEGO aesthetics. Bearbricks come in various sizes—100%, 400%, 1000%—referring to their height. The standard 100% is about 7cm tall, while the 1000% version stands at 70cm.
Bearbricks are more than just toys; they are collectible art pieces that often feature collaborations with famous artists, designers, and brands. These include high-profile names like KAWS Bearbrick,Bearbrick BAPE, and even film or pop culture editions like the Bateman Bearbrick (inspired by the character from “American Psycho”).
Verity of Bearbricks Available
There’s a wide variety of Bearbricks available, making them appealing to different types of collectors. Some popular Bearbrick types include:
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Basic Bearbrick – Usually features the classic bear design with simple colors.
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Artist Bearbrick – These showcase artwork from well-known artists such as KAWS or Andy Warhol.
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Brand Collaboration Bearbrick – Collaborations with fashion labels like BAPE Bearbrick and Nike.
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Movie/Themed Bearbricks – Includes characters like Batman, Star Wars, and the infamous Bateman Bearbrick.
This verity ensures that there’s a Bearbrick for everyone—from streetwear enthusiasts to art collectors.
Why Are Bearbrick Toys So Popular?
Bearbricks are more than just figures; they are a fusion of art, fashion, and design. Their limited-edition nature adds to their exclusivity and demand. Drops are often sold out within minutes, especially when it comes to KAWS Bearbrick or BAPE Bearbrick collaborations.
They’ve also become status symbols, frequently featured in the homes of celebrities and influencers. The ability to display a rare Bearbrick adds a stylish edge to interior decor and reflects one's taste in both fashion and art.
Where to Buy Bearbricks in the United States?
If you’re in the U.S. and looking to buy Bearbricks, here are some trusted options:
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Official Medicom Toy Online Store – Sometimes available in English, but stock is limited.
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StockX & GOAT – Popular for sneakers but also have verified Bearbrick listings.
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eBay – Great variety but requires caution to avoid fakes.
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Urban Outfitters, NTWRK, and SSENSE – Occasionally stock official Bearbrick collabs.
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Specialty Collectible Stores – Local toy and collectible shops sometimes carry Bearbricks, especially in larger cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Miami.
Make sure to purchase from verified retailers or platforms that offer authentication.
FAQs About Bearbricks
Q: How to legit check Bearbricks brand?
A: Authentic Bearbricks have several telltale signs:
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Packaging: Real Bearbricks come with Medicom Toy-branded packaging and often have collaboration logos.
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Build Quality: The material should feel solid, and the joints should move smoothly.
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Stamp or Engraving: Look for engraved information on the back of the figure—usually the brand name, collaboration details, and year.
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Smell: Fakes often use low-quality plastic, which has a strong chemical odor.
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Compare with Official Photos: Always compare what you're buying to the images from the official Medicom website.
Q: Are Bearbricks worth collecting?
A: Yes, especially limited editions like KAWS Bearbrick or BAPE Bearbrick. Their value often appreciates over time due to their scarcity.
Q: What size Bearbrick should I start with?
A: The 400% size is a popular entry point. It’s large enough to display prominently without being too bulky or expensive.
Q: Do Bearbricks come assembled?
A: Yes, Bearbricks come fully assembled. You just need to unbox and enjoy—or display it proudly in your space.
Final Thoughts
Bearbricks have made a powerful impact on the U.S. collector and fashion scene. With their unique blend of art, pop culture, and exclusivity, it’s easy to see why fans are drawn to them. Whether you're hunting for a Bearbrick KAWS a camo-themed BAPE Bearbrick, or the chillingly cool Bateman Bearbrick, there’s a piece waiting to be part of your collection. Just make sure to buy smart, check authenticity, and enjoy the hunt for the next great collectible.