What characteristics unify the gay men who call themselves bears? Are they bigger, hairier, older, kinkier, friendlier, rougher, more playful, or different in other ways from the general gay community? There are as many definitions of a bear as there are bears and bear-admirers. We don’t try to impose our own standards on that diversity.

In addition to our years participating in and serving the needs of this community, we have also conducted independent research into the tastes and interests of bears through our social networking website, BearParty.com, which has thousands of active members. Based in part on that research, and our own observations, BearParty Magazine targets a unique audience of seasoned gay male professionals:

• These men range in age from their mid-twenties to their late sixties and above
  
• A significant percentage have higher education and are in advanced career paths
  
• They are active in the bear community
  
• They go out to socialize more than once a week.
  
• They travel recreationally at least once or twice a year
  
• Many are in committed monogamous and open relationships
  
• Just as many are single and actively dating within the community.
  
• They appreciate good food, fine drink, useful gadgets, quality cars, travel, and recreation.
  
• They recognize the close relationship between health and personal comfort
  
• They are interested in information about ways to preserve their active lifestyle