V4NY “Free Max B” Strapback Hat – Harlem Hip Hop Legacy Meets Limited Edition Streetwear

In 2019, V4NY released one of its most exclusive pieces to date: the V4NY “Free Max B” Strapback Hat, a 100% cotton cap with bold embroidery and a premium metal strap closure. Featuring the iconic V4NY logo on the front and “Free Max B” stitched on the side, this limited edition drop paid tribute to one of Harlem’s most influential rap icons, Max B, whose music and movement left an unforgettable mark on New York hip hop culture.

Who is Max B and Why He Matters to New York Hip Hop

Born and raised in Harlem, Max B—also known as Biggavelli—emerged in the mid-2000s as one of the most unique voices in New York rap. Known for his melodic delivery, larger-than-life personality, and wave-inspired style, Max B helped shape a sound that influenced artists across the city and beyond. His collaborations with Jim Jones, Dipset and French Montana cemented his role as a Harlem legend, while his slang and swagger became part of the cultural DNA of New York street culture.

In 2009, Max B was sentenced to 75 years in prison, shocking fans across the hip hop community. Over time, appeals and support from fans and artists alike brought his sentence down, and his long-awaited release has been anticipated for years. His resilience and ongoing cultural relevance made him a symbol of freedom, survival, and the gritty spirit of New York hip hop.

The Inspiration Behind the “Free Max B” Hat

The V4NY “Free Max B” Strapback Hat was created not only as a fashion statement but as a cultural tribute. For V4NY, the streets of New York and the legends who shaped its sound and style are the foundation of every release. By stitching “Free Max B” onto this design, the brand honored Max’s impact on Harlem hip hop while connecting with those who recognize his influence on music, language, and lifestyle.
This wasn’t just a hat—it was a statement. A show of support. A way for New Yorkers and hip hop fans worldwide to carry a piece of Harlem history with them.

From the Creative Director: Why I Made the “Free Max B” Hat

As the creative director of V4NY, this release was deeply personal to me. I’ve been a fan of Max B since his early days with Jim Jones and ByrdGang. Back when mixtapes were taking over the internet on sites like DatPiff, I would check weekly to see what new tracks Max dropped. He wasn’t just another rapper—he was a pioneer. His melodic hooks and unique wave redefined New York hip hop, and if you were a true New Yorker at the time, you knew who Max B was.
What always stood out to me was that he was more than music—he was comedic, entertaining, and larger than life. When Max got locked up, it hit hard.

As a fan, I even wrote him a letter to let him know the wave wasn’t over, and that we were still counting down the days until his return.
Creating this strapback was my way of honoring his legacy and the mark he left on Harlem and New York culture. The “Free Max B” Strapback wasn’t just another limited edition streetwear release—it was a tribute from a fan to an icon, and a reminder that the wave will never die.

Quality, Exclusivity, and New York Influence

Like all V4NY releases, the strapback was built with premium quality in mind. Made from 100% cotton with detailed embroidery and a durable metal strapback closure, this hat was designed for both style and longevity.
Only 100 units were produced—making it one of the rarest and most exclusive streetwear pieces in the V4NY catalog. Once they sold out, the “Free Max B” Strapback became deadstock, solidifying its place as a true collectors’ item. Unlike other staples from the brand, this release will never be reissued, preserving its authenticity as a moment in New York streetwear history.

Max B's Upcoming Release

Adding even more meaning to this piece, Max B is scheduled to be released from prison on November 9, 2025. After more than a decade behind bars, his long-awaited return adds a powerful cultural moment to the legacy of the V4NY “Free Max B” Strapback Hat. For fans, collectors, and New Yorkers alike, it’s a reminder that the wave was never over—only waiting to come back stronger.

V4NY and the Spirit of New York

At its core, V4NY is more than just a streetwear brand—it’s a reflection of New York culture. Every special edition release pays homage to the city’s underground history, its music, and its legends. The “Free Max B” Hat represents that mission perfectly: it’s about Harlem, hip hop, exclusivity, and the unbreakable wave of influence that New York continues to spread across the world.
For those who own this piece, it’s more than a hat—it’s a chapter of New York streetwear history that will never be repeated.