In the context of the Dutch youth subculture that emerged in the 1990s, "gabber" refers to a participant in the hardcore techno scene. The word itself is derived from Amsterdam Bargoens slang for "friend" or "mate". A gabber's behavior is typically defined by: Hakken Dancing: A high-energy, frenetic dance style characterized by fast, repetitive leg movements and small steps that follow the intense rhythm of the music (typically 160–220 BPM). Communal "Working-Class" Ethos: The subculture historically embraced a no-nonsense, anti-establishment, and unpretentious attitude. It emphasizes a "work hard, play hard" mentality and a strong sense of loyalty and brotherhood among peers. Identity-Driven Lifestyle: For many, being a gabber is a lifelong commitment ("Gabber for life") rather than just a weekend activity. It often involves a "we don't care about trends" mentality. Signature Style: While not strictly a "behavior," certain visual choices are inseparable from the identity, including wearing tracksuits (often Australian or Cavello brands), Nike Air Max sneakers, and having shaved heads or very short hair. Reaction to Mainstream Culture: The movement originally formed as a reaction against more "slick" or intellectual house music scenes, preferring an aggressive, raw, and high-adrenaline environment. Australian tracksuit Nike air max 90 Gabber Brotherhood HAKKUH ''we don't care about trends'' here below For a gabber, the "we don't care about trends" mentality is a core pillar of their identity, representing a defiant rejection of mainstream society and "slick" commercial culture. This mindset typically means: Anti-Establishment Roots: The culture formed in Rotterdam as a "musical middle finger" to the artsy, elitist house scenes of Amsterdam. It prioritizes raw energy and industrial speed over what is considered "cool" or popular by the general public. A "Gabber for Life" Commitment: Being a gabber is seen as a permanent lifestyle or "tribe" membership rather than a temporary phase. Participants often feel they belong to a community that remains loyal to the scene even when it is out of fashion or ridiculed by the media. The "Uniform" as Resistance: While gabbers have a specific dress code—shaved heads, Australian tracksuits, and Nike Air Max sneakers—these choices are intended to distinguish them from the mainstream rather than follow high-fashion trends. The look functions as a "badge of honor" and a form of "non-verbal communication" among members. Rejection of Commercialism: Many "purist" gabbers are critical of the scene becoming too commercial or "trendy" (such as the rise of "TikTok gabbers" or "happy hardcore"), preferring the underground, authentic roots of the movement.
