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'Where's dad bod Ken?:' Men react to new Barbie body shapes

By Cox Media Group National Content Desk

Some men say Mattel should release different versions of the Ken doll. (Twitter/Will McFadden)

By Cox Media Group National Content Desk

Soon after Mattel announced Barbie dolls would come in new skin tones, heights and body sizes, an unlikely group thinks the company should do more to diversify the brand's products.

Fifty-seven years after the iconic tall, blonde doll debuted, Mattel issued the biggest changes in the children's toy yet. The company announced it'd sell Barbies with seven skin tones, 22 eye colors and 24 different hairstyles in tall, petite and curvy body shapes. 

Many women applauded the move, saying Mattel's action was an appropriate effort to reflect today's youth.
Others said the offering came too late.
But another group -- adult men -- hope Mattel will offer even more diverse models: varied versions of the Ken doll.

Mattel is among many companies that have aimed to decrease promotion of "gendered toys," but Barbie is still marketed almost exclusively toward young girls.

Even still, many men have taken to social media to suggest the company create more realistic-looking male companions for Barbie.

It's unclear whether most of those commenting on the body types of the male toys genuinely wish to see more varied versions of the Ken doll or if their complaints serve the purpose of criticizing the company's action, gender equality and other political topics.

Cox Media Group

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