For years, sam and colby merch, better known as Sam and Colby, have been more than just YouTubers. They’ve built a brand that blends urban exploration, paranormal investigation, and relatable friendship into a global fan movement. Their videos have led to sold-out tours, a thriving online presence, and most notably—their apparel line, XPLR.
In 2024, that brand took a major step forward when it entered one of the most recognizable alternative fashion retailers in the United States: Hot Topic. Today, fans can walk into their local mall and find official Sam and Colby merchandise hanging right alongside bands, anime, and cult-classic pop culture brands.
So, if you’re wondering whether you can pick up Sam and Colby merch at Hot Topic, the answer is a resounding yes—and the story behind it is just as exciting as the designs themselves.
1. The Arrival of XPLR in Hot Topic
xplr merch—short for “Explore”—launched in 2017 as more than just merch with faces on it. Sam and Colby wanted their apparel to reflect the mysterious, adventurous, and sometimes spooky vibes of their videos. Instead of plastering their names everywhere, they designed pieces that stood alone as stylish, alternative streetwear.
In late 2024, after years of selling directly through their website, Sam and Colby announced that Hot Topic stores across the U.S. would begin stocking XPLR products. For many fans, this was a dream come true. Not only did it make buying merch easier—no shipping wait times, no international import fees—but it also gave XPLR a chance to be discovered by casual shoppers who might not even know the YouTube duo.
The partnership made perfect sense. Hot Topic has a long history of supporting niche creators, alternative culture, and subcultural aesthetics, from emo bands to paranormal-inspired art. XPLR fit right in.
2. Types of Sam and Colby Merch Available at Hot Topic
When XPLR hit Hot Topic shelves, it wasn’t just a handful of generic shirts. The launch brought exclusive designs that couldn’t be found anywhere else.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s been available:
A. T-Shirts
- Dancing Skeletons T-Shirt
- Two skeletons form a heart shape with their arms, surrounded by a cobweb detail.
- Black fabric with a white and muted pink print.
- Exclusive to Hot Topic.
- Devil Logo T-Shirt
- Features a bold red “X” from the XPLR logo, styled with devil horns, bat-like wings, and a tail.
- Simple but striking design for fans who like darker, minimalistic styles.
- Metal Logo T-Shirt
- XPLR written in jagged, heavy-metal-inspired font.
- Appeals to fans of metal, punk, and hardcore aesthetics.
- Paranormal Logo T-Shirt
- Features eerie, ghost-inspired artwork tied to Sam and Colby’s haunted explorations.
- A subtle nod to their content without being overly branded.
B. Hoodies
- Skeletons & Flames Logo Hoodie
- Large XPLR logo in Old English font, decorated with flames and dancing skeletons.
- One of the most sought-after Hot Topic exclusives.
- Demon & Ghost-Inspired Graphics Hoodie
- Less widely available but occasionally stocked, featuring darker paranormal art.
3. The Hot Topic Exclusivity Factor
One of the smartest parts of this partnership is Hot Topic exclusivity. Many of the Sam and Colby hoodie pieces you see in their stores cannot be purchased through Sam and Colby’s official site. This means that even fans who already own multiple XPLR items might still stop by Hot Topic to grab designs they can’t get elsewhere.
The exclusivity also boosts collectability. In the world of merch, limited-run and store-specific items tend to hold more sentimental—and sometimes resale—value.
4. Why This Partnership Works
Several factors make the XPLR x Hot Topic collaboration a perfect match:
- Shared Audience – Hot Topic’s typical shoppers are teens and young adults interested in alternative, gothic, paranormal, and subcultural fashion. That’s exactly the demographic that watches Sam and Colby.
- Brand Alignment – Hot Topic thrives on niche brands with strong identities. XPLR’s adventurous and mysterious aesthetic blends seamlessly with the retailer’s other offerings.
- Physical Retail Experience – Many fans appreciate the ability to touch and try on merch before buying, something online shopping can’t offer.
5. The Business Impact
According to business reports, retail partnerships like Hot Topic have been a significant part of XPLR’s growth. In fact, their deal with the store reportedly contributed millions of dollars in sales revenue in just its first year.
For creators, getting their products into national chains isn’t just about money—it’s about legitimacy. Hot Topic’s decision to carry XPLR solidifies Sam and Colby’s status not only as entertainers but also as serious entrepreneurs in the fashion space.
6. The Fan Experience
When the announcement dropped, social media lit up with excitement. Fans posted videos of themselves walking into Hot Topic, spotting the XPLR display, and buying shirts on the spot. Some even documented entire “Hot Topic hauls” dedicated solely to Sam and Colby merch.
For longtime supporters, it was more than just a clothing drop—it was a milestone. Many remember watching Sam and Colby from their early Vine days, so seeing them in a major retail chain felt like watching a friend succeed on a huge stage.
7. Availability: In-Store vs. Online
Hot Topic stocks XPLR both in physical stores and online. However, availability varies by location and season. Some designs may sell out quickly in certain regions, especially near the release of a new YouTube series or tour.
- In-Store Perks: Instant purchase, ability to try on, local exclusive stock.
- Online Perks: Access to the full Hot Topic XPLR collection in one place, ability to ship nationwide.
8. How to Spot Official Hot Topic XPLR Merch
Because XPLR is a well-known brand, fake or unofficial merchandise sometimes appears on third-party marketplaces. To ensure you’re getting the real deal:
- Check Tags – Official XPLR items at Hot Topic have branded neck tags and care labels.
- Look for the Exclusive Sticker – Hot Topic exclusives often have a small label or tag noting exclusivity.
- Buy Directly from Hot Topic – Either in-store or on the official website.
9. The Future of XPLR at Hot Topic
Given the success of the launch, it’s likely that Hot Topic will continue to carry—and possibly expand—the XPLR collection. We could see:
- Seasonal drops tied to Sam and Colby’s YouTube content.
- Accessories like beanies, bags, and jewelry.
- Limited-edition collaborations with other alternative brands.
If the trend continues, XPLR could become a staple section at Hot Topic, much like other pop culture licenses and band merch.
10. Final Thoughts
So, are there Sam and Colby merch items at Hot Topic? Absolutely—and they’re not just an afterthought. The retailer has embraced XPLR as a key brand, offering exclusive designs that match Hot Topic’s edgy, alternative vibe.
