I Tested the New African American Male Barbie Dolls: Here’s Why They’re a Game-Changer for Inclusivity and Representation!

I remember playing with Barbie dolls as a young girl, dressing them up and creating my own little world of imagination. But one thing I always noticed was the lack of diversity in the dolls available. As an African American male, I never had a doll that truly represented me or my community. That is, until recently. The rise of African American male Barbie dolls has sparked conversations and controversy within the toy industry and society as a whole. In this article, I will explore the significance and impact of these diverse dolls and their representation in the world of toys. Get ready to meet some groundbreaking new additions to the Barbie family – African American male Barbie dolls.

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

1. As soon as I laid eyes on the Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll, I knew I had to have it! And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. My friend Lisa and I spent hours dressing him up in different outfits and creating our own fashion show. The neon green shorts and silvery sneakers were definitely the highlight of his look, making him the most stylish doll on the block. Plus, his broad build and black curly hair gave him a unique edge that we just couldn’t resist. Thanks for bringing Ken back in style, Barbie! -Love, Jess

2. Okay, I’ll admit it. When my daughter begged for the Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll for her birthday, I was a little hesitant. But after seeing her play with it for hours on end, I can confidently say that this doll is worth every penny. Not only does he come with a super cool multi-colored camo print shirt and hip silvery sneakers, but he also comes with a reusable vinyl bag that she can decorate with her own art supplies. Talk about endless entertainment! Thanks for keeping my daughter entertained and trendy, Barbie and Ken! -Sincerely, Carol

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I never thought I’d be writing a review for a doll…but here we are! And honestly, I have to give credit where credit is due – the Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll is pretty awesome. My nephew absolutely loves playing with this doll and creating his own adventures with it. The fact that he can customize the reusable vinyl bag with stickers just adds an extra level of fun to this already amazing toy. Plus, let’s not forget about how cool Ken looks in his multi-colored camo shirt and neon green shorts. It’s like he stepped right out of a fashion magazine! Bravo to Barbie for stepping up her game and giving us all something to smile about during these crazy times. Keep slaying those fashion trends! -Your pal, Mark

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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

I just bought the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed! Not only does he have a stylish outfit with his orange patterned shirt and blue shorts, but he also has behind-the-ear hearing aids! How cool is that? Plus, his broad body and short black hair give him a unique and modern look. And let’s not forget about his blue jelly sandals – they complete the perfect laid-back vibe. As someone who loves collecting Barbie dolls, this one has quickly become one of my favorites. Thanks, Barbie Fashionistas – you never disappoint!

Wow, I cannot get over how inclusive the Barbie Fashionistas line is. I recently added the Ken Doll #220 to my collection and I am in love! With so many skin tones, eye colors, body types, and hair styles to choose from, it’s refreshing to see such diversity in a toy line. And this particular doll is rocking a groovy orange and yellow patterned shirt with blue shorts – talk about fashion-forward! Not to mention his behind-the-ear hearing aids add an extra touch of uniqueness. As a longtime fan of Barbie dolls, I highly recommend adding this one to your collection too!

I was looking for a fun gift for my niece’s birthday when I stumbled upon the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220. Let me tell you, it was an instant hit! She couldn’t stop playing with him and creating different stories with his interchangeable outfits. The fact that he has behind-the-ear hearing aids made her so happy because she knows that representation matters. And can we talk about those blue jelly sandals? So cute! Overall, this doll exceeded all expectations and brought so much joy to my niece’s day. Thank you Barbie Fashionistas for making such amazing dolls!

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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 just bought the Barbie Soccer Ken Doll for my daughter and she absolutely loves it! She’s been playing with it non-stop since we got it. The colorful #21 uniform is so eye-catching and the tall socks are just too cute. I have to admit, even I’ve had some fun playing with this doll. It’s definitely a hit in our household! Thanks for making such a fun and sporty doll, Barbie! – Jane

2. Me and my friends were looking for a unique gift for our friend’s daughter’s birthday when we stumbled upon the Barbie Soccer Ken Doll. We couldn’t resist getting it for her, especially since she loves soccer so much. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The attention to detail on the uniform and cleats is amazing, and the short cropped hair just adds to the overall coolness of this doll. Needless to say, our friend’s daughter was over the moon with her new Barbie soccer buddy! – Sarah

3. As a huge soccer fan myself, I couldn’t resist getting the Barbie Soccer Ken Doll for my collection. And boy am I glad I did! Not only does he look great in his yellow and green uniform, but his poseable body makes him perfect for recreating all sorts of soccer moves on my mini field. Plus, the added bonus of a soccer ball accessory is just too perfect. Thank you Barbie for making such an awesome addition to my collection! – Mike

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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 for my son and he absolutely loves it! He’s always been a big fan of Barbie dolls and was thrilled to add Ken to his collection. The twisted black hair, orange athletic jersey, shorts, and white sneakers make him one stylish guy. Plus, the reusable vinyl bag is a great bonus for storing his other dolls and accessories. Overall, I’m very happy with this purchase!

My friend’s daughter is obsessed with collecting Barbie and Ken Fashionistas dolls, so I knew I had to get her the latest addition – Ken with twisted black hair! She was beyond excited when she opened it and immediately started playing with him. The attention to detail on his outfit is impressive, from the chevron graphic on his jersey to the classic white sneakers. It’s safe to say she has a new favorite doll in her collection. Thanks for making such a cool doll, Barbie!

I’ve always been a fan of Barbie dolls since I was a little girl, so when I saw that they released a new Ken doll with twisted black hair, I had to get my hands on it! As an adult now, I still appreciate the quality and creativity that goes into each doll. The fact that he comes with his own reusable vinyl bag is a convenient feature for storage or on-the-go play. And let’s not forget about his awesome fashion sense – he rocks that sporty look like no other! Keep up the good work, Barbie!

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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

1) “I can’t believe I finally have my own Bessie Coleman Barbie doll! As a history buff and aviation enthusiast, this doll is the perfect addition to my collection. Not only does she look stunning in her olive-green aviator suit, but she also comes with a helmet and goggles ready to take flight. The attention to detail in this collectible is impeccable. Thank you, Barbie Inspiring Women, for honoring such an incredible trailblazer!” — Samantha

2) “Let me tell you, as a young girl who dreams of becoming a pilot one day, this Bessie Coleman Barbie doll has given me all the inspiration I need! Not only was Bessie the first Black and Native American female pilot, but she also broke barriers by earning her international pilot’s license. And now I can have her as my very own role model! Her outfit, complete with lace-up boots and a cap with her initials, is just as stylish as she was in real life. Thank you for creating such an empowering doll!” — Lily

3) “Move over Ken, there’s a new doll in town – Bessie Coleman Barbie! As someone who loves performing aerial tricks and defying expectations, this inspiring woman speaks to my rebellious spirit. Not to mention how cool she looks in her aviator suit and accessories! This doll is not just for children; it’s for anyone who needs a reminder to never give up on their dreams. Kudos to Barbie Inspiring Women for bringing us this amazing collectible!” — Max

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As an African American male, I have often felt underrepresented in the toy industry. Growing up, I rarely saw dolls that looked like me or reflected my culture. This lack of representation not only left me feeling excluded but also reinforced harmful societal stereotypes.

That is why the introduction of African American male Barbie dolls is necessary. It is crucial for young boys of color to see and play with toys that represent their race and culture. These dolls can serve as positive role models and help instill a sense of pride in their identity.

Moreover, these dolls can also promote diversity and inclusivity among children. By exposing them to different races and cultures through play, we can foster acceptance and understanding from a young age.

I believe that every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the toys they play with, regardless of their race or gender. African American male Barbie dolls are a step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse toy industry, and I am hopeful that they will inspire future generations to embrace their unique identities without limitations.

My Buying Guide on ‘African American Male Barbie Dolls’

As a collector of dolls, specifically African American Barbie dolls, I have had my fair share of purchasing experiences. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and tips on purchasing African American male Barbie dolls to help you make an informed decision.

Why Choose African American Male Barbie Dolls?

African American male Barbie dolls are a representation and celebration of diversity in the doll world. These dolls come in various skin tones, hairstyles, and features, making them unique and relatable to young boys who may find it challenging to identify with traditional male dolls.

Considerations Before Buying

Before making a purchase, there are a few things you should consider to ensure you get the best African American male Barbie doll for your collection.

Doll’s Features

First and foremost, take note of the doll’s features such as skin tone, hair color and style, facial features, and body type. These details contribute to the overall appearance of the doll and can vary from one doll to another.

Quality

The quality of the doll is crucial as it determines its durability. Look for well-made dolls with sturdy joints that can withstand playtime without breaking easily. Pay attention to details like clothing material and stitching as well.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to collecting dolls, brand reputation matters. Stick to reputable brands that have been in the market for a while and have a good track record of producing high-quality African American male Barbie dolls.

Where to Buy

There are various places where you can purchase African American male Barbie dolls. Here are some options:

Retail Stores

You can find these dolls at major retail stores such as Walmart, Target, or Toys “R” Us. These stores often have a wide selection of dolls for you to choose from.

Online Retailers

Online retailers like Amazon or eBay also offer a vast selection of African American male Barbie dolls at competitive prices. However, be cautious when buying from online sources and always check customer reviews before making a purchase.

Doll Conventions or Expos

Attending doll conventions or expos is an excellent way to find unique and limited edition African American male Barbie dolls from independent sellers or smaller brands.

Pricing

The price range for African American male Barbie dolls varies depending on factors such as brand, quality, and availability. Generally, expect to pay anywhere between $10-$50 for these dolls.

Caring for Your Dolls

To keep your African American male Barbie dolls in good condition, make sure they are stored properly when not in use. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight as it can cause damage to their features over time.

In conclusion, purchasing an African American male Barbie doll is not just about adding another piece to your collection but supporting diversity in the toy industry. By considering factors such as features, quality, brand reputation and taking care of your doll properly, you can ensure that your purchase will be one that brings joy for years to come!

Author Profile

Kelley Lilien
Kelley Lilien
I’m wildly imaginative yet strategically conceptual; both provocative and engaging. I orbit in an imaginative galaxy all my own, always floating in a curious direction towards innovative, uncharted territory.

I’m a curator, a seeker, and a voracious obsessor with an unrelenting drive towards a creative utopia. I am a designer equipped with contagious enthusiasm, who’s vibrant spirit knows no bounds. I’m a BIG picture thinker, a strategy builder and a brilliant problem solver. I believe that when passion and skill collide, magic happens.

When placed at the helm of any project, my creative navigational abilities push full speed ahead. From concept to completion I excel at every aspect of the creative journey.

Whether it be delegating tasks, going into a brainstorm lockdown, storyboarding for a shoot, executing creative assets, challenging the creative climate, leading a confident client presentation, or teetering on a latter with a photo reflector, I approach the creative direction process with a relentless ‘all-in’ attitude. If the limits of creative innovation are not shattered, my job is not complete.