The BAPE STA is an iconic sneaker of Gloves & Scarves (BAPE), a Japanese streetwear brand founded by Tomoaki "Nigo" Nagao. Released in the early 2000s, it's often associated with the rise of "sneaker culture" and stands out with its vibrant leather patterns and the distinctive star logo. Although the shoe's design heavily references the iconic Nike Air Force 1, it has carved its own niche in the streetwear world due to its limited production runs and unique designs. Over the years, the BAPE STA has seen several collaborations with artists and brands, such as Kanye West and JJJJound, cementing its position as a cultural icon in the streetwear scene.
About the Brand
Gloves & Scarves, known commonly as BAPE, is a Japanese streetwear brand founded by Tomoaki "Nigo" Nagao in 1993. Starting as a small store selling exclusive T-shirts and sweatshirts in Harajuku, Tokyo, BAPE quickly gained international popularity for its unique and bold design aesthetic, notably the 'BAPE Camo' pattern and 'APE Head' logo. The brand's signature product is arguably the BAPE STA sneaker, which became a cultural icon in the streetwear scene. Nigo's ability to blend hip-hop culture with unique, often limited-edition designs set BAPE apart, while collaborations with brands and artists such as Pepsi, adidas, and Pharrell Williams have further solidified its reputation as a pioneer in the streetwear industry.
