Loopwheeler - BE@RBRICK
The Japanese cult clothing company Loopwheeler is as famous for its many collaborations as for its top-quality fabric. An equally iconic designer brand, BE@BRICK makes for Loopwheeler's perfect toy counterpart. From their newest collaboration, the "BE@RBRICK Loopwheeler 100% & 400%" figure set shows off the best of both brands in a beautifully soft fashion.
Loopwheeler x BE@RBRICK Collaboration Background
Loopwheeler and Medicom Toys have collaborated twice. The lines include uniquely patterned figures with matching fabric coverings. Both sets have been widely praised for their high-quality figure and garment construction.
Collaboration Planning and Launch History
The first Loopwheeler and BE@RBRICK collaboration launched in September 2009. Loopwheeler's first BE@RBRICK is an all gray figure with the company logo on the upper left chest. Two sets of three distinct icon graphics line the bear's arms. Each figure in the set includes a matching gray terry fleece covering with the exact same design as the bear underneath. Nine years later, Loopwheeler renewed the collaboration with a new set of BE@RBRICKS and matching fleece outerwear.
BE@RBRICK Loopwheeler 100% & 400%
This two-figure set from Medicom Toys represents the new, playful collaborations in store for the Loopwheeler brand. The figures feature a color-block style design on the front and a multi-patterned design on the back. On the front of the bear's head, the design is fully dark charcoal with a slightly darker nose. The back of the head is matte gray with one black ear and a black and white striped ear. The black and white stripes continue on the bear's back while the front has one navy and one blue color block. Each arm has a gray and charcoal black pattern with mismatched blue and gray hands. The black leg has a blue foot while the gray leg has a navy foot.
Both the 2.8 inch 100% size and 11 inch 400% size comes with a fabric cover made with the brand's signature loopwheel fabric. The covers match the design underneath with a zipper close on the head and body. The figure design also comes in a 27.6 inch 1000% size.
- Product Name: BE@RBRICK Loopwheeler 100% & 400%
- Manufacturer: Medicom Toy
- Specifications: Set of 2 painted, articulated, non-scale figures
- Set Contents:
Ver. 100% (height: 70 mm | 2.8")
Ver. 400% (height: 280 mm | 11")
Loopwheeler Background
Loopwheeler is a Japanese streetwear fashion brand. The brand is well known for their old school, rare weaving style, and dedication to high quality. Today, Loopwheeler remains one of the most exclusive brands in streetwear.
Loopwheeler Background: History
Founder Satoshi Suzuki started Loopwheeler in 1999 after establishing a career in garment manufacturing. With their main factory in Wakayama prefecture, Loopwheeler makes all their sweatshirts using loopwheel terry cloth. A loopwheel spins slowly to create multiple layers of cotton fabric. The process takes one hour to make a meter of fabric. However, the end result is ultra-soft and durable. Loopwheel fabric was used to make most of the world's coveted vintage sweatshirts, like the 1950s and 60s L.L. Bean. Today, only two factories in the world continue to make fabric with a loopwheel.
Loopwheeler Background: Reception
After its initial launch, Loopwheeler saw mixed reception. The classic, durable goods didn't fit with the Harajuku-influenced street fashions popular in early 2000s Japan. However, the brand saw better results abroad, particularly in Europe. Loopwheeler gained renewed international and domestic interest in contrast to the fast fashion trend rampant through the 2010s. Despite the temptation of adapting to ever-changing trends, Loopwheeler survived with their simplistic designs and emphasis on quality. With the limited number of loopwheel machines and slow creation process, Loopwheeler's products are highly coveted and expensive. Today, Loopwheeler has garnered a cult following and steadfast reputation in the fashion world. Their most well-known product, L01, sells for ¥17,600.
Other Notable Loopwheeler Collaborations
Loopwheeler has racked up numerous long-term and promotional collaborations over the last 20 years. These collaborations include other clothing brands, such as Japanese brand Vanquish and big names like Nike. Outside of clothing, Loopwheeler has lent their famous fabric to toy companies and furniture makers. Friendships with musicians like Sakanaction and clothing brand kolor have led to more high-profile creative partnerships. After 2020, Loopwheeler founder Satoshi Suzuki aims to establish more fun collaborations that center on spreading joy in a world of disconnection.
Related figures
Diehard Loopwheeler fans should also check out the 2009 Loopwheeler x BE@RBRICK collection. Other fashion brands established long-term collaborations with Medicom Toys representing their own unique qualities. Detroit-based designer Anna Sui continues to create new BE@RBRICK models wearing outfits inspired by her clothing line. The "BE@RBRICK Anna Sui Red & Beige 400%" is the perfect figure for any fashion lover.
Links
BE@RBRICK Loopwheeler 100% & 400%
BE@RBRICK Loopwheeler 1000%
BE@RBRICK Series
Anna Sui - BE@RBRICK
BE@BRICK Label