A Bathing Ape is a Japanese clothing company founded in 1993, in Tokyo, by an entrepreneur/designer called Nigo. The clothing line was based on urban/hip hop style of attire. The logo of the brand is a face of an ape, which has been derived from the movie 'Planet of the Apes.' The brands name has been derived from a popular Japanese saying, 'bathing in lukewarm water.' The clothing was basically targeted at the Japanese youth who were fascinated by street wear. A Bathing Ape is also known as BAPE and it has extended its brand from t-shirts and jeans to sneakers, underwear, and even a hair salon, gallery, caf'©, record label, and television channel.

The Bathing Ape shoes have been inspired from Nike Air Force one's edition. They are vibrantly colored, and use shiny leather. They are more expensive than the Nike edition itself. They are a rage among people due to its exclusive availability, however very few sneaker boutiques sell some pairs of the Bathing Ape shoes.

Rappers and artists such as Pharrell Williams, Jay-Z, Justin Timberlake, Young Jeezy, and many DJs wear this brand of clothing and shoes, among others. A Bathing Ape items being limited in production are priced highly and much in demand. The company's first store was opened in New York City, in 2004. Today, BAPE has almost 25 outlets, including a members-only store, in Hong Kong.