Cult Japanese threads, now State-side

Any kid who ever lusted after Famicom's mythical Mario XIII knows that Japan has a nasty habit of keeping the best stuff for itself. Bucking that trend, WTAPS.Celebrated in Japan since its '96 Harajuku inception, WTAPS is a military-inspired, meticulously detailed streetwear and accessories line now available at a mere three US stores -- fortunately including SF's irresistibly sinister Darkside Initiative. The new spring line -- "Extreme Prejudice" -- plays out with classic-fit trousers (in camo, raw denim, or black hemco), ample-pocketed field jackets of cotton, nylon, and gore-tex, and a plaid cotton workshirt called "The Vato" (ironically, less Extremely Prejudicial than its original title, "The Pendejo"). For something more Commando, check out accessories like "Delta" belts, heavy-duty nylon keychains, and all-purpose backpacks swathed with cylindrical compartments perfect for humping the line's most soldierly item: designer Kuuma incense.The catch: WTAPS rolls out their offerings gradually, so some items like tees, caps, and wallets won't be available for a month or so -- but keep the faith because, unlike Dai-2-Ji Super Robot Taisen, it will get here someday.