Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand—it’s a cultural force born from the soul of Los Angeles. Founded by Chris “Spanto” Printup and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann, the label represents a raw, unapologetic voice from the neighborhoods that often get left out of the glossy narrative of L.A. Through fashion, storytelling, and community action, Born X Raised has cemented itself as a symbol of pride, resilience, and authenticity.

The Origins: A Brand with a Message

Born X Raised began as a response to the changing face of Los Angeles. As gentrification reshaped communities, pushing out families and long-standing cultures, Spanto and 2Tone sought to create something that fought back. The brand emerged in 2013 as a tribute to the streets they grew up on—Venice and South Central—places where community meant everything.

From the very start, Born X Raised wasn’t interested in chasing trends. Instead, it stood firm in telling the stories of the city’s overlooked voices. The name itself is a statement: “Born” into this city, and “Raised” by its values, culture, and struggle.

Aesthetic: Grit, Pride, and Local Flavor

The Born X Raised aesthetic is unmistakable. Bold typefaces, strong graphics, and classic L.A. iconography define its look. There’s an intentional roughness to the design—each piece looks like it belongs in the alleyways, backyards, and lowrider meets of Los Angeles. The designs often pay tribute to neighborhoods, sports teams, Chicano culture, and local legends.

What sets Born X Raised apart is its refusal to dilute its identity. While many brands shift their aesthetic to appeal to wider audiences, Born X Raised stays loyal to its roots. That loyalty resonates with people—not just in L.A., but across the country and even the world—who relate to the brand’s sense of pride and resistance.

Cultural Significance: More Than Fashion

Bornxraised hoodie isn’t just selling clothes. Every drop, every collaboration, and every campaign tells a story. One week it’s about the legacy of East L.A.; the next, it’s a message about police brutality or the erasure of Black and Brown communities. The brand uses its platform to talk about issues others are afraid to touch.

In 2021, they released a collection in tribute to the late Spanto’s battle with cancer, showing raw honesty and emotion. The release was deeply personal, connecting with fans not just as customers but as a real community. It was a reminder that Born X Raised stands for something deeper than fabric and fashion.

Collaborations That Stay True

Born X Raised has partnered with some of the biggest names in sports and fashion—Nike, the Dodgers, the Lakers, the Rams, and even the UFC. But unlike many collabs that feel forced or commercial, these partnerships work because they stay true to the city’s identity. The designs still scream Los Angeles, no matter the brand name on the tag.

One of the most iconic collaborations was with the Los Angeles Dodgers. It wasn’t just another team merch drop—it was a celebration of the deep roots between the team and the city’s neighborhoods. The imagery combined old-school street style with baseball heritage in a way that only Born X Raised could pull off.

The Legacy of Spanto

In early 2024, the world lost Chris “Spanto” Printup. His passing was a gut punch to the streetwear community and the city of Los Angeles. But even in his absence, his influence continues to guide the brand. Spanto was more than a designer—he was an activist, a storyteller, and a son of L.A. who never forgot where he came from.

Spanto’s spirit lives on in every release, every photoshoot, and every pop-up event. Born X Raised didn’t just lose a founder—it lost a visionary. But in keeping his mission alive, the brand ensures that the heart of the culture keeps beating.

A Community-Driven Brand

From hosting food drives to supporting youth programs, Born X Raised walks the walk when it comes to giving back. The brand doesn’t just drop collections—they build community. Whether it's launching events in Skid Row or speaking out on social justice issues, they continue to put people over profit.

This commitment to real-life impact sets Born X Raised apart in an industry often driven by hype. They use their platform to bring attention to the people and places that matter—often the very same ones fashion tends to ignore.

Global Reach, Local Heart

Despite its global recognition, Born X Raised hasn’t lost its local focus. The brand’s messaging, tone, and visuals still feel personal and specific. That’s rare in streetwear. While fans wear their clothes in Tokyo, New York, and London, the soul of the brand remains rooted in L.A. That unwavering authenticity is why the brand continues to grow without compromising.

It’s also why so many fans connect so deeply with Born X Raised. Wearing their pieces isn’t about clout—it’s about belonging to something real.

The Future of Born X Raised

As Born X Raised moves forward without its co-founder, there’s a sense that something even more powerful is emerging. With a solid foundation and a loyal following, the brand is poised to keep evolving while staying grounded in its origins.

Upcoming collaborations, continued storytelling, and deeper community outreach are all part of the next chapter. The vision is bigger than ever, but the mission stays the same: protect the culture, honor the city, and never sell out.

Conclusion

Born X Raised is not just a brand—it’s a movement, a memory, and a message. It stands as a voice for the unheard, a spotlight for the unseen, and a tribute to the soul of Los Angeles. In an industry full of noise, Born X Raised remains a clear and powerful signal.