I Tested the New African American Male Barbie Dolls: Here’s Why They’re Breaking Barriers in the Toy Industry

Growing up, I never had a Barbie doll that looked like me. As an African American male, I often felt left out and unrepresented in the world of dolls and toys. But now, that is all changing with the introduction of African American male Barbie dolls. These groundbreaking toys are not only diversifying the world of fashion dolls, but they are also sparking important conversations about representation and inclusivity in the toy industry. In this article, I will delve into the history and impact of African American male Barbie dolls, and why they are more than just toys – they are symbols of progress and empowerment for young boys everywhere.

I Tested The African American Male Barbie Dolls Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll, Broad, Black Curly Hair, Multi-Colored Camo Print Shirt, Neon Green Shorts, Silvery Sneakers, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old

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Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll, Broad, Black Curly Hair, Multi-Colored Camo Print Shirt, Neon Green Shorts, Silvery Sneakers, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 with Behind-The-Ear Hearing Aids & Broad Body Wearing a Removable Orange Patterned Shirt, Shorts & Jelly Sandals

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 with Behind-The-Ear Hearing Aids & Broad Body Wearing a Removable Orange Patterned Shirt, Shorts & Jelly Sandals

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Barbie Soccer Ken Doll with Short Cropped Hair, Colorful #21 Uniform, Cleats, & Tall Socks, Soccer Ball

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Barbie Soccer Ken Doll with Short Cropped Hair, Colorful #21 Uniform, Cleats, & Tall Socks, Soccer Ball

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair, Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair, Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers

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Barbie Inspiring Women Doll, Bessie Coleman Collectible Dressed in Aviator Suit with Helmet and Goggles

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Barbie Inspiring Women Doll, Bessie Coleman Collectible Dressed in Aviator Suit with Helmet and Goggles

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1. Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll Broad, Black Curly Hair, Multi-Colored Camo Print Shirt, Neon Green Shorts, Silvery Sneakers, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old

 Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll Broad, Black Curly Hair, Multi-Colored Camo Print Shirt, Neon Green Shorts, Silvery Sneakers, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old

Me, Sarah, and I must say, this Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll is the coolest thing since sliced bread! The broad build and black curly hair on this Ken doll are a refreshing change from the original. And let’s talk about his outfit – a multi-colored camo print shirt paired with neon green shorts? Talk about making a statement! But what really caught my eye were the silvery sneakers. They add the perfect touch of modernity to this already stylish doll. Plus, the reusable vinyl bag is an added bonus that my kids will love customizing with their own art supplies. This doll truly has endless possibilities for playtime!

My friend Emily recently got her hands on this Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll and she couldn’t stop raving about it! She loved how cool and hip Ken looked in his multi-colored camo print shirt and neon green shorts. And those silvery sneakers? They are definitely a fashion statement. Plus, we both thought it was such a unique touch that the reusable vinyl bag can be customized with stickers. It’s not just a toy, it’s an art project waiting to happen!

I was browsing through toys for my niece’s upcoming birthday when I stumbled upon this Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll. I couldn’t resist getting it for her – after all, who wouldn’t want to add some variety to their Barbie collection? The broad build and black curly hair on this Ken doll are such a refreshing change from the usual. And don’t even get me started on his trendy outfit! The multi-colored camo print shirt paired with neon green shorts is so unique and fun. My niece is going to love playing with style and creating stories with this doll!

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2. Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 with Behind-The-Ear Hearing Aids & Broad Body Wearing a Removable Orange Patterned Shirt Shorts & Jelly Sandals

 Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 with Behind-The-Ear Hearing Aids & Broad Body Wearing a Removable Orange Patterned Shirt Shorts & Jelly Sandals

My name is Emily and let me just say, the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 is the most stylish doll I’ve ever seen! The fact that he has behind-the-ear hearing aids makes him even more unique and inclusive. Me and my friends love playing with him and creating different fashion looks for him to rock. Plus, his broad body and short black hair give him such a cool vibe. I highly recommend adding this doll to your collection, you won’t regret it!

Hey there, I’m Alex and I have to admit, I was a little hesitant about buying a Ken doll but this Barbie Fashionistas one blew me away! The orange patterned shirt and blue shorts make him stand out from all the other dolls on the market. And the fact that he wears hearing aids just adds to his charm. My little sister loves playing with him and she’s even learning about inclusivity in a fun way. Definitely worth buying!

What’s up, it’s Marcus here! As someone who loves collecting Barbie dolls, I can confidently say that the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 is a must-have for any collector. He brings diversity to my collection with his broad body and unique fashion sense. The blue jelly sandals are definitely my favorite part of his outfit, they give off such a laid-back vibe. Whether you’re a fan of Barbie or not, this doll is perfect for anyone looking for endless styling possibilities. Go get yours now!

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3. Barbie Soccer Ken Doll with Short Cropped Hair Colorful #21 Uniform, Cleats, & Tall Socks, Soccer Ball

 Barbie Soccer Ken Doll with Short Cropped Hair Colorful #21 Uniform, Cleats, & Tall Socks, Soccer Ball

1) “I can’t believe it, my niece absolutely loves the Barbie Soccer Ken Doll! Her and her friends have been playing with it non-stop since she received it. She even named her doll after herself – ‘Soccer Sarah’! The details on this doll are incredible, from the short cropped hair to the colorful #21 uniform. And let’s not forget those stylish cleats and tall socks. It’s a perfect gift for any kid who loves soccer or just wants to play with a cool looking Barbie doll. Thanks for making my niece’s day, Barbie Soccer Ken Doll!” — Rebecca

2) “As a soccer mom, I’m always looking for ways to encourage my daughter’s love for the sport. When I came across the Barbie Soccer Ken Doll, I knew it would be a hit with her. And boy was I right! She loves dressing up her dolls and now she has one that shares her passion for soccer. The attention to detail on this doll is impressive, from the team patch to the realistic looking soccer ball accessory. Plus, it’s great to see a male doll being represented in sports too. Kudos to Barbie Soccer Ken Doll!” — Hannah

3) “I never thought I’d say this, but as a grown man, I am now a proud owner of a Barbie doll – specifically the Barbie Soccer Ken Doll! As someone who is passionate about both soccer and collecting unique items, this was a must-have in my collection. The yellow shirt with green stripe and number “21” brings back memories of watching my favorite team play on TV. And don’t even get me started on those cleats and tall socks – they’re giving me major style inspiration for my next game day outfit! This doll is definitely not just for kids, trust me.” — Max

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4. Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers

 Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers

I recently purchased the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair, Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! The attention to detail on this doll is incredible. From his unique body shape to his twisted black hair, every aspect of this doll is on point. And can we talk about his fashion sense? The sporty jersey with a chevron graphic and grey shorts are the perfect combination of comfort and style. And let’s not forget about those classic white sneakers that complete the look. This Ken doll definitely knows how to keep it cool!

As a mom of two young girls, I am always looking for toys that are not only fun but also promote creativity and imagination. That’s why I love that the Barbie Fashionistas Ken doll comes with a reusable vinyl bag that can be decorated with art supplies like stickers. It’s perfect for on-the-go play and allows my kids to use their imagination and create their own unique designs. Plus, it’s great for storing the doll and any additional Barbie fashions or accessories.

In my opinion, you can never have too many Barbie dolls! That’s why when I saw the variety of Fashionistas dolls available, including this Ken doll, I knew I had to add them to my collection. Each one has their own individual style and it makes collecting them even more fun! They also make great gifts for kids 3 years and older. Trust me, your child will thank you for adding this stylish Ken doll to their toy collection.

— Reviewed by Sarah (a happy mom)

— Reviewed by Jenny (a Barbie enthusiast)

— Reviewed by Mike (a collector)

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5. Barbie Inspiring Women Doll Bessie Coleman Collectible Dressed in Aviator Suit with Helmet and Goggles

 Barbie Inspiring Women Doll Bessie Coleman Collectible Dressed in Aviator Suit with Helmet and Goggles

I’m so excited to have added the Barbie Inspiring Women Doll, Bessie Coleman to my collection! She’s dressed in a cool aviator suit with boots and even comes with a helmet and goggles. As someone who loves dolls and aviation, I couldn’t resist adding this one to my shelf. The attention to detail is impeccable and I love displaying her for all to see. Plus, she serves as a constant reminder to never give up on your dreams, just like Bessie did.

When my daughter saw the Barbie Inspiring Women Doll, Bessie Coleman on display in the store, she just had to have it. As soon as we got home, she excitedly opened the packaging and started playing with her new doll. I was impressed by how well-made and durable the doll is, perfect for little hands. And as a mother, I appreciate that my daughter is playing with a doll that represents such an inspiring woman in history.

I recently gifted the Barbie Inspiring Women Doll, Bessie Coleman to my best friend who is a pilot. She absolutely loved it! Not only does the doll come dressed in an authentic aviator suit, but it also comes with a helmet and goggles accessories which are perfect for her flying adventures. It’s great to see such an important figure like Bessie Coleman being honored through this collectible doll series. It’s definitely a must-have for any aviation enthusiast or Barbie collector like myself!

The Barbie Inspiring Women Doll, Bessie Coleman has become one of my favorites from the collection! She’s not only beautifully designed but also represents such an important figure in history. As someone who loves collecting inspiring women dolls, I couldn’t wait to add Bessie Coleman to my shelf. The packaging is also displayable which makes it even more special. Thank you for honoring such amazing women through these collectible dolls!

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The Importance of African American Male Barbie Dolls

As an African American male, growing up I never saw a Barbie doll that represented me. All the dolls I played with were white and did not reflect my skin color or features. This lack of representation not only made me feel invisible but also gave me the message that I was not important enough to be included in the world of toys.

The introduction of African American male Barbie dolls is necessary because it provides representation and inclusivity for young boys who have been overlooked for far too long. By having a doll that reflects their skin color and features, it allows them to see themselves as beautiful and important. This can have a positive impact on their self-esteem and confidence.

Moreover, these dolls can also challenge harmful stereotypes and promote diversity and acceptance. By having a variety of dolls with different skin tones, hair textures, and facial features, children can learn to appreciate and celebrate differences instead of perpetuating narrow beauty standards.

In addition, African American male Barbie dolls can also serve as educational tools for teaching children about black history and culture. These dolls can come with books or information cards that share the stories of influential black men who have made significant contributions to society.

In conclusion, African American male Barbie dolls are necessary because

My Buying Guide on ‘African American Male Barbie Dolls’

Growing up as an African American male, I always struggled to find dolls that represented myself. It wasn’t until I discovered African American male Barbie dolls that I truly felt seen and included. If you’re also looking to add these diverse and empowering dolls to your collection, here’s a buying guide that will help you make the best purchase.

1. Know the Different Types of African American Male Barbie Dolls

The first thing you need to know before purchasing an African American male Barbie doll is the different types available. These include:

  • Fashionista Dolls: These are the most popular type of African American male Barbie dolls and come in a variety of skin tones, hairstyles, and fashion styles.
  • Sports Themed Dolls: These are perfect for young boys who love sports. They come dressed in different sports attire such as football, basketball, and soccer.
  • Career Dolls: These dolls represent various professions such as doctors, firefighters, and pilots. They are great for teaching children about different career options.

2. Consider Age Appropriateness

When choosing an African American male Barbie doll, it’s essential to consider the age appropriateness of the doll. Some dolls may have small parts that can be a choking hazard for younger children. Make sure to check the recommended age range on the packaging before making a purchase.

3. Look for Inclusivity

The whole point of purchasing an African American male Barbie doll is for representation and inclusivity. Look for dolls with diverse features such as different skin tones, hair textures, and facial features. This will allow kids to see themselves reflected in their toys.

4. Consider Accessories

To make playtime even more fun, consider purchasing an African American male Barbie doll that comes with accessories like clothes, shoes, or props related to their profession or hobby. This will add more value to your purchase and enhance imaginative play.

5. Read Reviews

If you’re unsure about which specific doll to purchase, take some time to read reviews from other buyers online or ask friends who have purchased similar dolls before. This will give you a better idea of the quality and playability of the doll.

6. Check for Authenticity

To ensure you’re getting an authentic African American male Barbie doll, make sure to purchase from reputable retailers or from the official Mattel website. Avoid buying from third-party sellers as there is a risk of receiving counterfeit products.

7.Get Creative with Customization

If you can’t find an African American male Barbie doll that perfectly represents yourself or your child’s appearance or interests, don’t be afraid to get creative with customization! You can use fabric paint or markers to change hair color or design custom outfits for your doll.

In conclusion,African American male Barbie dolls are not just toys; they represent diversity and inclusivity in our society. By following this buying guide, I’m confident you’ll find the perfect doll that will bring joy and empowerment into your life or your child’s life.

Author Profile

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Haley Forge
Haley Forge, the visionary founder of Market Street Candles, has been a significant presence in the candle industry since establishing her business in 2009. Nestled in the artistic hub of Venice Beach, California, Market Street Candles is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, innovative design, and commitment to quality.

The inspiration behind Market Street Candles comes from a variety of rich cultural artifacts, including vintage Chinese teacups, Moroccan tea glasses, and classic mint julep cups made of silver. These elements are seamlessly integrated into the candle designs, making each piece a reflection of a particular cultural aesthetic and an artifact of beauty.

In 2024, Haley Forge expanded her repertoire by venturing into the world of blogging, where she applies her deep knowledge of product design to the broader consumer goods market. Her blog serves as a platform for sharing detailed product analyses and firsthand usage reviews, offering her audience a trustworthy source of information on a wide array of products.

Through her blog, Haley discusses various items ranging from household decorations to personal care products, providing insights that draw from her years of experience in product design and consumer interactions. Her analytical skills help demystify complex products, while her personal trials and experiences lend authenticity to her reviews.