When it comes to collectible designer toys, few names resonate as loudly as Bearbrick. Known for their unique aesthetic, collaboration power, and high resale value, Bearbricks have carved out a special place in both streetwear and art circles across the United States. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Bearbricks, including popular varieties like Bearbrick KAWS, Bearbrick BAPE, and the exclusive Bateman Bearbrick.
What Are Bearbricks?
Bearbricks are collectible toy figures produced by the Japanese company Medicom Toy. Shaped like a cartoon-style bear, each figure features nine points of articulation and comes in multiple sizes—from 100% (7 cm) to 1000% (70 cm). Though technically “toys,” Bearbricks are highly sought after for their art, fashion, and pop culture collaborations, often doubling as collectible investments.
Bearbricks Variety: From KAWS to Bateman
Bearbricks come in a wide range of styles and designs, often made in collaboration with world-famous brands and artists.
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Bearbrick KAWS: These limited-edition figures designed by renowned artist KAWS are some of the most coveted in the market. They feature his signature “XX” eyes and street-art inspired aesthetic.
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Bearbrick BAPE: A longtime partner, A Bathing Ape (BAPE) releases camo-covered Bearbricks that blend fashion and toy collecting.
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Bateman Bearbrick: Inspired by the dark and stylish character Patrick Bateman from American Psycho, this edition brings a high-concept twist to the collection, appealing to pop culture fans.
These different varieties allow collectors to express their interests and align with their favorite artists or brands.
Bearbricks Toys: More Than Just Collectibles
Though often displayed as art, Bearbrick toys are technically functional action figures. But don’t expect kids to play with them—their real value lies in their design, limited production runs, and resale potential. Many collectors consider them more of an art investment than a toy.
The most popular sizes include:
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100%: Small and perfect for first-time collectors
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400%: A good mid-size figure, great for display
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1000%: The ultimate showpiece, highly valued by serious collectors
Where to Buy Bearbricks in the United States?
Looking to buy your first Bearbrick or expand your collection? Here are some top sources:
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Official Medicom Toy website (limited access outside Japan)
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StockX: One of the most trusted resale platforms
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eBay: Offers a wide variety, but requires extra attention to authenticity
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Designer toy shops like Kidrobot or BAIT
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Fashion boutiques like SSENSE, END., or HBX often carry limited releases
Always be sure to check the credibility of the seller, especially when buying high-value or rare Bearbricks.
How to Legit Check Bearbricks?
One of the most common questions collectors ask is, “How do I know my Bearbrick is real?” Here’s how to legit check Bearbricks:
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Packaging: Real Bearbricks come in high-quality packaging with official Medicom Toy logos and serial numbers.
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Material and Finish: Authentic Bearbricks have a premium plastic feel with smooth finishes.
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Joint Quality: Fake Bearbricks often have loose or stiff joints. Genuine figures have smooth articulation.
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QR Codes and Holograms: Some recent editions include holographic stickers or QR codes for verification.
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Buy from Reputable Sellers: This is the most reliable way to avoid counterfeits.
When in doubt, compare your Bearbrick to verified listings from trusted platforms like StockX or check forums such as r/Bearbrick on Reddit.
FAQs About Bearbricks
Q: Are Bearbricks a good investment?
Yes, many Bearbrick editions increase in value over time, especially those from collaborations like Bearbrick KAWS and Bearbrick BAPE.
Q: What’s the difference between Bearbrick and Bearbricks?
“Bearbrick” refers to the brand or singular figure, while “Bearbricks” is the plural form commonly used by collectors.
Q: Can I buy Bearbricks in-store in the U.S.?
Yes, select high-end fashion retailers and designer toy shops carry Bearbricks. However, most limited editions sell online.
Q: What’s the rarest Bearbrick?
Some of the rarest include collaborations with Chanel, Nike, and artists like KAWS. The Bearbrick KAWS Companion series is especially rare and valuable.
Q: What’s the difference between 100%, 400%, and 1000% Bearbricks?
These percentages refer to the figure’s size, with 1000% being the largest and most expensive.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re into streetwear, pop culture, or collectible art, Bearbricks offer a unique blend of creativity, rarity, and value. With so many variations like Bearbrick KAWS, Bearbrick BAPE, and Bateman Bearbrick, there’s a style for every collector. Just be sure to legit check Bearbricks and buy from trusted sources to avoid counterfeits. Happy collecting!