Dave Strider is a boy "so cool he only appreciates things ironically." He copied this behavior from his older brother (also his biological father through ectobiology and his only guardian), who collects puppets and katanas on what Dave assumes is an ironic level. Dave has been described as "smart-cynical," and is John's best friend. Surrounded by bad video games and junk food, he wears aviator sunglasses, obscuring his eyes entirely, and wields katana in combat situations.