A Bathing Ape BAPE Mens Hats

BAPE stands as one of Japan’s defining streetwear icons, with roots in the vibrant Ura‑Harajuku scene of the early ’90s. Founded by multi‑hyphenate Nigo in 1993 — who later cut ties with the brand in 2013 to focus on new ventures like Human Made — the label channels his deep love of 20th‑century pop culture, drawing inspiration from Planet of the Apes and the phrase ‘a bathing ape in lukewarm water’. If you’re wondering what does BAPE stand for, those influences helped shape the brand’s unmistakable APE HEAD identity.

In the ’90s, BAPE helped cement the era’s Urahara style, quickly becoming a cultural tastemaker in Tokyo and a whispered secret among global insiders. Today, it remains a cornerstone of contemporary streetwear, with once‑rare pieces like Shark BAPE hoodies and its prolific camo now recognised worldwide across men’s A Bathing Ape clothing and accessories, including caps and beanies. Whether it’s a BAPE shirt or a pair of BAPE trainers, the look is instantly recognisable, a youthful edge and bright, statement‑making aesthetic that's pure BAPE.

At END., new fans and OG followers are covered with a collection of hoodies, BAPE t‑shirts, shorts, outerwear, homeware and BAPE sneakers.

Discover discounts in the A Bathing Ape Sale.