Born X Raised is not just a brand. It’s a cultural statement, a neighborhood anthem, and a tribute to the roots of Los Angeles. At its core, Born X Raised represents authenticity, community, and a defiant pride in where you come from. It was never about fitting into the streetwear scene—it was about building something entirely its own.

Founded in 2013 by Chris "Spanto" Printup and Alex "2Tone" Erdmann, Born X Raised emerged from the heart of Venice, California. While other brands focused on global appeal or fashion-forward trends, Born X Raised dug its heels deep into local culture, creating a movement that resonated far beyond LA.

Origins and Founding Philosophy

The story of Born X Raised begins with pain and pride. Spanto, a lifelong Venice native, saw his community changing. Gentrification was sweeping through the Westside, reshaping neighborhoods and pushing out longtime residents. What once felt familiar and sacred now seemed commercialized and foreign. Rather than stand by, Spanto decided to fight back with culture and clothing.

Together with 2Tone, who brought creative direction and a sharp design eye, they launched Bornxraised hoodie as a form of resistance. Their early collections weren’t just fashion—they were messages. Slogans like “Gentrification is Genocide” appeared on shirts, tapping into the rage and heartbreak of displaced communities. The name itself, "Born X Raised," captured the soul of the brand: a deep connection to one’s home and a refusal to forget your roots.

The Style That Speaks Volumes

Born X Raised quickly gained a reputation for its bold designs and uncompromising voice. The brand mixed classic West Coast aesthetics—like Chicano lettering, old-school sports influences, and local slang—with high-concept drops and collaborations. Each collection told a story, whether it was about local LA politics, street culture, or personal struggle.

Their graphics are aggressive yet thoughtful, often featuring sharp contrasts and provocative messaging. Unlike more trend-driven brands, Born X Raised maintains a consistent identity. It's unapologetically local and fiercely loyal to its origins. The colors, typography, and themes are instantly recognizable, creating a visual language that's become iconic in modern streetwear.

Collaborations and Cultural Influence

What set Born X Raised apart wasn’t just its rebellious spirit—it was its ability to work with major institutions while keeping its soul intact. Over the years, the brand has partnered with big names like the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Lakers, and the NFL, bringing a fresh cultural lens to mainstream collaborations.

Despite its rise to fame, the brand never watered down its message. These collaborations didn’t feel like sell-outs—they felt like celebrations of LA identity. Whether it was designing limited-edition jerseys or creating high-profile streetwear drops, Born X Raised stayed true to its roots.

Beyond clothing, Born X Raised played a vital role in music, art, and social commentary. It resonated with hip-hop artists, skaters, graffiti writers, and even Hollywood creatives. People wore Born X Raised not just because it looked good—but because it meant something.

Tragedy and Legacy: The Passing of Spanto

In 2023, the streetwear community was rocked by the news of Spanto’s passing. He had battled cancer for years, often in private, while still leading the brand with vision and strength. His death was a devastating loss—not just for Born X Raised, but for the larger cultural world.

Spanto wasn’t just a designer. He was a storyteller, a fighter, and a beacon for those who felt forgotten. His authenticity inspired thousands. After his passing, the outpouring of love from fans, artists, and collaborators confirmed what many already knew: Born X Raised was more than a brand. It was a legacy.

The company continues to honor Spanto’s vision. Every drop, every design, and every post echoes the values he stood for. His fingerprints are still all over the creative process, and his message continues to resonate.

The Meaning of "Community" in Every Thread

What Born X Raised understands better than most is that clothing can be a form of protest, remembrance, and identity. It's not just about streetwear—it’s about the streets themselves. The brand actively engages with community projects, fundraisers, and cultural celebrations. They've organized events in local neighborhoods, donated to youth programs, and supported causes affecting LA’s underserved populations.

This deep sense of responsibility sets the brand apart. It doesn’t just use culture as inspiration—it gives back to it. Born X Raised builds with the community, not on top of it.

A Unique Place in Streetwear History

Born X Raised occupies a singular place in the world of streetwear. It stands at the intersection of fashion, activism, and heritage. While many brands come and go, chasing the latest trend or influencer buzz, Born X Raised moves differently. It doesn’t follow—it leads, often with a sharp critique or heartfelt tribute.

In a space that can often feel commercial and shallow, Born X Raised offers substance. It reminds people that clothing can have meaning, history, and soul. That a T-shirt can say more than a press release. That a cap can carry the weight of a neighborhood.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Born X Raised

Though its future chapters are being written without Spanto, the spirit of Born X Raised is alive and well. The brand continues to innovate while staying grounded. It has the foundation, the audience, and the mission to continue evolving while staying true to its original vision.

Born X Raised is likely to remain a vital voice in streetwear—both in fashion and in cultural dialogue. Whether through more bold collaborations, new product lines, or further community engagement, it’s clear that the movement isn’t slowing down.

What remains most important is that the heart of the brand stays intact. That same raw energy and pride that Spanto and 2Tone poured into those early designs still beats strong. Born X Raised is still for the people. Still for the neighborhood. Still for the culture.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Brand

Born X Raised is more than logos and limited drops. It is memory, resistance, love, and rebellion—all stitched into fabric. It is Venice. It is Los Angeles. It is every city where the soul of a community is under threat but refuses to fade.

In an age where fashion often feels disposable, Born X Raised reminds us that some things are worth holding onto. Our roots. Our stories. Our voices.