How to tell if BAPE items are real? A step by step guide on identifying genuine BAPE apparel

Founded in 1993 in Harajuku, A BATHING APE®, better known as BAPE, is a very well know Japanese Streetwear brand. It has distinctive patterns and designs such as BAPE CAMO, APE HEAD, BABY MILO and other designs, and also Shark hoodies. BAPE STA are also very recognizable and popular.

Because of the costs and the obvious nature of BAPE items, there’s a lot of fakes out there. Learning the ways to spot the real deal is crucial to avoid getting ripped off.

Check the BAPE Official Website

BAPE always lets the customers know where they can purchase official BAPE items. BAPE’s official FAQ states US.BAPE.COM is their official site and says they do not have any connection with any fake sites.

You always have to check the domain name and website layout of sites that claim to be official BAPE sites. You also always have to check the contact details and the payment details of the site. Payment details may differ from site to site, but contact details should always remain the same.

Check the Item Against Official Listings

Check the official BAPE site to confirm the design and color-way of any item you wish to purchase. Merchandise on unauthorized sites can be deceptively similar to the real thing. Always check against BAPE’s site to make sure everything checks out.

There are many items such as shirts and jackets as well as accessories available on BAPE’s official site. Buyer beware, there are countless sites that are selling fake merchandise.

Logos, Prints, Etc.

The items you should be on the lookout for with BAPE include APE HEAD and BAPE CAMO. Babymilo is also relevant. Check the quality of the item including the sewing, logos, printing, and edges of the material. Look for inconsistencies and poor quality, especially in edges and seams.

Keep in mind, having a minor difference from an example here doesn’t mean it’s fake. The lack of one of the examples here can also be justified. Do your research.

Question Cheap Items

A large reduction in price doesn’t mean it’s real. Be very cautious of discounted BAPE. Check the seller’s rep before purchasing. Check the going rates at official retailers.

The current products on the official US BAPE store have a broad price range from less expensive accessories and T-shirts to more expensive hoodies and jackets.

Check the Seller and Payment Information

BAPE recommends customers to familiarize themselves with the seller’s information, payment information and return policy prior to making a purchase. BAPE encourages customers to contact their bank and check their statement to see if any unauthorized charge was made. BAPE further states that any charge made by SP USBAPECOM is valid and legitimate.

Final Thoughts

When customers learn methods to recognize real BAPE products, they can safeguard their interest in avoiding counter-productive purchasing and deceitful websites. The best place to start is BAPE’s website. Customers must compare details of each product and determine if the product meets BAPE’s quality standard. Taking into account the seller and the price of the product, along with reasoning and common sense, should assist a customer in determining if the product is BAPE’s.