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Longtime streetwear fans know the impact Japanese A Bathing Ape has had on the booming industry. With sharp takes on fashion staples, the brand has produced some of its own classics since its founding in 1993. Its Cloud Camo and Shark Hoodie are no doubt integral to the brand’s success. But it’s hard to argue a better representation of the brand than its iconic BAPE STA sneaker.
The BAPE STA was first introduced in 2000 as a clear and simple riff on Nike’s Air Force 1, resonating with sneakerheads for its blatant “homage” to the Swoosh and its rarity outside of Japan. Upon its release, it achieved instant cult status and has since been a mainstay for the brand, boosted high by hip-hop elite like Kanye West and Pharrell Williams.
Twenty years on, the BAPE STA gets its own homage with a capsule collection of spots, stripes and stars. Zebra stripes and leopard spots are printed on hair-on-hide leathers alongside the standard solid white and black colorways. While the collection is modest, the brand says to expect more never-before-seen releases throughout the year in celebration of the shoe’s 20-year run.
The BAPE STA 20th collection drops today.
