In the world of designer collectibles, Bearbricks (or Bearbrick in singular) stand out as one of the most iconic and in-demand items—especially in the United States. Created by the Japanese company Medicom Toy, Bearbricks have become a cultural phenomenon, blending streetwear, art, pop culture, and design into one collectible figure.

From artist collaborations like KAWS Bearbrick, to fashion-forward designs like BAPE Bearbrick, and even movie-inspired pieces such as the Bateman Bearbrick, these collectibles continue to attract collectors and fans worldwide.

What Is a Bearbrick?

A Bearbrick is a bear-shaped figure with a blocky, toy-like body and movable arms, legs, and head. It’s available in multiple sizes—100% (7 cm), 400% (28 cm), and 1000% (70 cm)—with larger sizes often being more desirable for display.

But Bearbricks are more than just toys. Each one serves as a canvas for collaboration, featuring artwork and branding from artists, musicians, streetwear labels, luxury designers, and movie franchises. This fusion of art and pop culture is what makes Bearbricks so unique—and so collectible.

Popular Bearbrick Variants

There’s a Bearbrick for almost every style and interest. Some of the most popular and collectible editions include:

• KAWS Bearbrick: Known for its bold, cartoon-like designs and iconic “XX” eyes, this collaboration with artist KAWS is one of the most famous in the Bearbrick world.

• BAPE Bearbrick: Featuring the signature camo and graphics from the Japanese streetwear brand A Bathing Ape (BAPE), this version is highly sought after by fashion fans.

• Bateman Bearbrick: Inspired by Patrick Bateman from American Psycho, this version appeals to film buffs and fans of dark pop culture.

• Artist/Brand Collabs: Bearbricks have featured artwork from legends like Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat, as well as brands like Marvel, Nike, Chanel, and Star Wars.

With every release, new themes and ideas are introduced, keeping the Bearbrick community excited and always collecting.

Are Bearbricks Toys or Art?

Technically, Bearbricks are toys—but in reality, they’re closer to modern art collectibles. These figures are designed to be displayed rather than played with, and many collectors treat them as decorative pieces for homes, studios, or even galleries.

Their limited-edition nature and crossover with high fashion and fine art make Bearbricks just as appealing to art collectors as they are to pop culture fans.

Where to Buy Bearbricks in the United States

Looking to start or grow your Bearbrick collection? Here are some of the best places to buy Bearbricks in the United States:

• Medicom Toy’s official site and select authorized online retailers

• Streetwear shops like SSENSE, END, HBX, and Bodega

• Designer toy stores including Kidrobot, Rotofugi, and MyPlasticHeart

• Online marketplaces such as eBay, StockX, and Grailed for resale and rare editions

When buying rare Bearbricks like KAWS Bearbrick or Bateman Bearbrick, it’s important to verify authenticity to avoid copyright items.

How to Legit Check Bearbricks

With the rising value of certain Bearbrick figures, fake versions are increasingly common. Here’s how to legit check Bearbricks before making a purchase:

• Check the foot logo: Authentic Bearbricks have the Medicom Toy stamp and production year printed on the sole of the foot.

• Examine the packaging: Real Bearbricks come in clean, well-printed boxes with accurate logos and information.

• Inspect quality: Genuine Bearbricks have smooth joints, sharp prints, and high production quality. Fakes may look rough or uneven.

• Research your edition: Look up the specific version online to compare colors, packaging, and serial numbers.

• Avoid too-good-to-be-true deals: Extremely low prices on rare models like BAPE Bearbrick often signal a fake.

Common Questions About Bearbricks

What size Bearbrick is best for new collectors?
Start with a 100% or 400% Bearbrick. The 400% is especially popular for its display-friendly size and detailed designs.

Are Bearbricks a good investment?
Yes, especially limited-edition and collaboration models like KAWS Bearbrick or BAPE Bearbrick. Many rise in value over time.

Can I buy Bearbricks in physical stores?
Yes. Some U.S. designer toy stores and streetwear boutiques carry Bearbricks, especially in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

Do Bearbricks come with accessories?
Most Bearbricks come fully assembled, but some limited editions may include extra design elements or themed packaging.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're into streetwear, pop art, or collectible design, Bearbricks offer a perfect blend of creativity, culture, and value. From fashion collaborations like BAPE Bearbrick to exclusive drops like Bateman Bearbrick, each figure is a statement piece. With their growing popularity in the United States, now is the perfect time to start collecting. Just remember to buy from trusted sources and learn how to legit check Bearbricks so you can build a collection that's both authentic and valuable.