Born X Raised isn’t just a clothing brand—it’s a cultural movement rooted deeply in the streets of Los Angeles. From its inception, it has been a raw and unapologetic reflection of the city’s complex social dynamics, underground culture, and deeply rooted pride in local identity. What started as a small idea between two childhood friends has grown into one of the most authentic voices in modern streetwear.
Origins of a Streetwear Powerhouse
Born X Raised was founded by Chris “Spanto” Printup and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann in 2013. Spanto, who grew up in Venice, Los Angeles, wanted to create something that represented the real LA—not the Hollywood version sold to tourists, but the authentic neighborhoods, histories, and struggles of the locals who had called the city home for generations.
The brand’s name, Born X Raised, comes from this very concept. It’s a phrase that speaks to heritage, identity, and ownership of place. While many streetwear labels borrow from urban culture for aesthetics, Born X Raised is one of the few that emerged from within that world, built by individuals with firsthand experience of the realities they represent.
A Tribute to Local Culture
What sets Born X Raised apart from other streetwear labels is its fierce dedication to community and culture. Every design, collection, and collaboration reflects the textures of LA life—from the lowrider culture of East LA to the gritty backstreets of Venice Beach. It doesn’t just nod to the culture; it embodies it.
Their iconic “On the Turf” tagline captures the essence of their message. It’s a statement of belonging, of standing your ground in a world that’s constantly changing. In a city where gentrification has displaced long-time residents and altered entire neighborhoods, Bornxraised hoodie acts as a visual protest and a celebration of roots.
The Power of Storytelling Through Fashion
Born X Raised collections often tell stories that reflect moments in LA’s social and political history. From references to racial tensions, police brutality, and cultural pride, their clothing functions as wearable commentary. It’s not uncommon to see T-shirts emblazoned with provocative slogans, images from old neighborhood photo archives, or symbols that carry deep local significance.
Their ability to tell authentic stories through fashion is what makes their drops feel more like cultural events than mere product launches. Fans and collectors don’t just buy the clothing for style—they buy into a narrative, a piece of history, a slice of home.
Collaborations That Carry Meaning
In the world of streetwear, collaborations are often seen as a status symbol. Born X Raised has engaged in high-profile partnerships, but they do it differently. Whether working with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Lakers, or Nike, they maintain their voice and values. These collaborations are not about mainstream appeal—they’re about finding common ground between institutions and the city’s grassroots culture.
One of their most powerful collaborations was with the LA Dodgers, not just because of the prestige of working with a major league team, but because of what it represented: recognition of street culture by the very institutions that once ignored or clashed with it.
The Role of Loss and Resilience
Tragedy struck the brand in 2023 with the passing of Spanto. His death sent shockwaves through the fashion and LA communities. For many, he was more than a designer; he was a symbol of resilience, creativity, and local pride. Diagnosed with cancer in 2013, Spanto battled through years of treatment while building Born X Raised from the ground up.
His passing left a void, but also a legacy. The brand continues to thrive, with 2Tone and the team carrying forward the mission they started together. Spanto’s vision still guides the designs, the message, and the overall spirit of the brand.
Impact on the Global Streetwear Scene
Though deeply tied to Los Angeles, Born X Raised has earned international respect. It’s become a symbol of authenticity in an industry that’s often criticized for surface-level engagement with culture. For fans around the world, wearing Born X Raised isn’t just a fashion choice—it’s a statement about identity, community, and being real in an increasingly curated world.
Their commitment to being unapologetically themselves has allowed them to transcend trends. While many brands ride waves of popularity and fade, Born X Raised has established a timeless appeal by focusing on truth, not hype.
Community First: Giving Back to LA
Unlike many brands that sell culture without reinvesting, Born X Raised is known for giving back to the communities it draws inspiration from. Whether it’s organizing back-to-school drives, hosting free events, or simply supporting local artists and musicians, the brand has always prioritized community engagement.
Their annual “Sadie Hawkins Winter Formal,” a community party, became one of the most talked-about events in LA’s underground scene. These events aren’t for press or clout—they’re for the people. That’s what makes them matter.
Why Born X Raised Matters Today
In a time where fashion often feels disposable and detached from meaning, Born X Raised stands out as a brand that still has something to say. Its clothes speak of heritage, defiance, loss, resilience, and pride. In many ways, it’s not just about LA—it’s about any place where people are fighting to keep their history alive in the face of change.
Born X Raised matters because it doesn’t pretend. It doesn’t chase mainstream approval. It remains grounded in the streets, in memory, and in culture. It’s a reminder that fashion can still be a form of protest, storytelling, and love.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Born X Raised
With Spanto’s legacy firmly rooted in the brand’s DNA, the future of Born X Raised looks to be both a continuation and an evolution. While the soul of the brand will always remain tied to LA, its reach is growing. New collections hint at broader themes, yet the authenticity remains intact.
As more people around the world discover the stories behind the clothes, the brand will likely continue to inspire a new generation of creatives and rebels who see fashion not just as a style, but as a language.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand—it’s a voice for the unheard, a canvas for untold stories, and a love letter to the communities that raised it. From the streets of Venice to the world stage, it stands as a testament to the power of staying true to your roots, even as everything else changes.