Atmos - BE@RBRICK
Atmos is a Japanese streetwear brand and store that is highly regarded for its collaborations with other sneaker brands, with Nike being one of the most notable. Aside from its collaborations with other clothing brands, Atmos also has a rather extensive history with Medicom Toy and its BE@BRICK line. While the two companies have collaborated to create well over two dozen unique BE@RBRICK designs, two of the most popular Atmos x BE@RBRICK figures are the “BE@RBRICK atmos Animal 1000%” and the “BE@RBRICK atmos Elephant 1000%”.
Atmos x BE@RBRICK Collaboration Background
The collaboration between Atmos and BE@RBRICK began in July 2009 with the release of two figures: the “atmos [White]” and “atmos [Glow in the Dark]” BE@RBRICK figures. As of early 2021, there have been over thirty unique BE@RBRICK designs released through this collaboration, with the most recent figures being the black bandana, multi-colored bandana, and checkerboard Coca-Cola Atmos BE@RBRICK figures in February 2021.
Collaboration Planning and Launch
The first two BE@RBRICK designs were originally released in both BE@RBRICK’s 100% and 400% sizes. Furthermore, these BE@RBRICK figures came in unique packaging that resembles a shoebox. After the first release of figures, several other figures designed by atmos would be created to commemorate various events and other brands. Some examples include the 10th anniversary Atmos BE@RBRICK celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Japanese streetwear brand, several Atmos x Coca-Cola figures, and a variety of Atmos x Staple figures.
BE@RBRICK atmos Animal 1000%
This figure from Medicom Toy features a design inspired by the “Animal Pack” of Nike Air Max sneakers created by Nike and Atmos. Much like the original Nike sneakers, this figure uses an alternating combination of tiger and leopard print to create a unique pattern throughout the figure. A red Atmos logo can also be seen displayed on the tiger-striped chest as well. As its name implies, this particular figure comes in BE@RBRICK’s 1000% size, which means that it is over two feet tall. As such, this item makes a great centerpiece for one’s Atmos or BE@RBRICK collection.
- Product Name: BE@RBRICK atmos Animal 1000%
- Manufacturer: Medicom Toy
- Specifications: Painted and articulated plastic figure
- Height (Approx.): 700 mm
BE@RBRICK atmos Elephant 1000%
Much like the previous figure, this “BE@RBRICK atmos Elephant” figure is based on a design of the Nike Air Max sneakers. The animal print is composed of white and black paint that is made to resemble elephant skin. The Atmos brand logo is also found on this figure’s chest, though it is colored turquoise instead of red. This figure is also a 1000% figure, meaning that it is approximately 27.6 inches tall.
- Product Name: BE@RBRICK atmos Elephant 1000%
- Manufacturer: Medicom Toy
- Specifications: Painted and articulated plastic figure
- Height (Approx.): 700 mm
Atmos Background
Atmos is a streetwear and sneaker brand that began in Japan, but also has a location in New York City as well. While Atmos stores sell their own brands of clothing and other apparel, they are perhaps more known for their collaborations with large sneaker brands like Nike, Adidas, PUMA, and more.
Atmos Background: History
Before Atmos was officially founded in 2000, its founder, Hommyo Hidefumi, found a passion for collecting sneakers while he was studying abroad in a college in Philadelphia. This collection eventually spiraled into something like an obsession and eventually led to Hidefumi buying highly desired sneakers in the United States for cheap, bringing them back to Japan, and selling them at a much higher rate. The store that followed Hidefumi’s success was named Chapter and featured many articles of vintage apparel from the collection he had been adding to for years. After making a significant profit and becoming a hotspot for streetwear and sneakers, Hidefumi created the first Atmos store in Harajuku and quickly formed the first collaboration with Nike. Today, there are eight individual Atmos locations, seven of which are located in Japan. The eighth location is the only international store and can be found in New York City.
Atmos Background: Reception
Since the streetwear scene was relatively new around the time Hidefumi was selling sneakers he bought in the US, many often credit Hidefumi as one of the pioneers of Japanese streetwear fashion. Even when Hidefumi was still running Chapter, his collection of sneakers and other streetwear was so large, representatives of Nike asked to buy his items for their own archives. Even today, customers travel to the various Atmos locations to enjoy the unique experience that only visiting the physical stores can provide.
Other Notable Atmos Collaborations
One of the first and most prominent ongoing collaborations with Atmos is with the internationally acclaimed sneaker company, Nike. Through this collaboration, Atmos has designed Nike sneakers like the Air Force 1, Dunk, and Air Max 1. These sneakers were incredibly popular upon release and continue to be some of the most sought after by serious collectors. Aside from Nike, Atmos has also collaborated with brands like Adidas, ASCIC, and PUMA as well.
Related Figures
Apart from the figures mentioned above, BE@RBRICK and Atmos have created dozens of figures together, so fans of both Atmos and BE@RBRICK have plenty of selection to choose from. For example, there is the Atmos 10th Anniversary BE@RBRICK figure, which was released in November 2010. Other brands like Hello Kitty, GARY, YAK PAK, and several others have also collaborated with Atmos and BE@RBRICK to create unique designs throughout the years. All in all, there is bound to be something for everyone.
Links
BE@RBRICK atmos Animal 1000%
BE@RBRICK atmos Elephant 1000%
BE@RBRICK Series
BE@BRICK Label