Bearbricks have taken the collectible toy world by storm. These stylish, blocky bear-shaped figures are more than just toys—they're a cultural phenomenon. From fashion collabs to art pieces, Bearbricks have become must-have items for collectors and pop culture enthusiasts across the United States. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Bearbricks: their varieties, top collaborations like KAWS Bearbrick and BAPE Bearbrick, where to buy them, and how to make sure yours is legit.
What is a Bearbrick?
A Bearbrick is a collectible toy designed and produced by the Japanese company Medicom Toy. The name is a mix of “bear” and “brick,” referencing its bear-like shape and blocky design. Despite their simplicity, Bearbricks are known for their high-end art collaborations, rare designs, and serious resale value.
Each Bearbrick has a basic body design, but they come in different sizes—most commonly 100%, 400%, and 1000%. The percentage refers to the size of the toy compared to the original 100% size (about 7 cm or 2.75 inches tall). Larger sizes like the 1000% Bearbrick (70 cm or 27.5 inches tall) are often the centerpiece in collectors’ homes.
Bearbricks Variety: Collaborations and Editions
Bearbricks come in a huge variety, making them popular among collectors of all types. They are often released in themed series, including:
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Basic Series – Simple designs with the BE@RBRICK logo
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Artist Series – Features work from global artists like KAWS
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Horror Series – Characters from iconic horror movies
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Hero Series – Includes superheroes from DC and Marvel
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SF Series (Science Fiction) – Sci-fi themes and movie characters
Some of the most iconic and valuable Bearbricks are from high-profile collaborations:
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KAWS Bearbrick These Bearbricks feature the designs of famous artist KAWS and are highly sought after.
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BAPE Bearbrick: A collaboration with the Japanese streetwear brand A Bathing Ape, often featuring camo prints and bold branding.
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Bateman Bearbrick: Inspired by the cult classic film American Psycho, this design features the infamous Patrick Bateman character, adding a dark edge to collections.
Where to Buy Bearbricks in the United States
If you're looking to start or expand your Bearbricks collection in the U.S., here are some of the best places to buy:
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StockX: A popular resale platform for limited-edition Bearbrick toys.
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eBay: Offers a wide range of Bearbricks, both new and vintage.
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Designer toy stores: Stores like BAIT, Toy Tokyo, and Medicom Toy official resellers.
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Hypebeast-approved retailers: Some streetwear boutiques also sell Bearbricks during special releases.
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Online marketplaces: Grailed and GOAT occasionally have listings for high-end Bearbricks.
Be sure to shop from trusted sources to avoid counterfeits.
How to Legit Check Bearbricks
With their rising popularity, fake Bearbricks are also on the rise. Here are tips to legit check your Bearbrick:
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Check Packaging: Authentic Bearbricks come in high-quality packaging with clean printing and logos.
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Inspect Logos: Look for the official BE@RBRICK stamp on the back of the figure.
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Feel the Material: Genuine Bearbricks are made from solid plastic with a sturdy feel.
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Compare with Official Photos: Use Medicom Toy’s website or other trusted collector sites to compare your figure.
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Buy from Verified Sellers: If you're using platforms like StockX or eBay, only buy from sellers with a strong rating and positive reviews.
Common Questions About Bearbricks
What makes Bearbricks so expensive?
Bearbricks are often released in limited editions and designed by famous artists and brands. This exclusivity, combined with collector demand, drives prices up.
Can kids play with Bearbricks?
While Bearbricks are technically toys, they are primarily designed for display and collection. They’re not recommended for young children due to small parts.
How do I start collecting Bearbricks?
Start with more affordable 100% Bearbricks and learn about different series and artists. Follow release news from Medicom Toy and reputable resellers.
Is Bearbrick a good investment?
Some Bearbricks, especially artist collabs like the KAWS Bearbrick or BAPE Bearbrick, can significantly increase in value over time. As always, collect what you love—but yes, they can be a good investment.
Final Thoughts
Bearbricks are more than designer toys—they’re a lifestyle collectible that blends art, fashion, and pop culture. Whether you're drawn to a KAWS Bearbrick or want a statement piece like the Bateman Bearbrick, there’s a Bearbrick for every kind of collector. As long as you buy smart and legit check carefully, Bearbricks are a fun and potentially valuable addition to any collection in the United States.