Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand—it's a cultural movement that channels the raw and unfiltered essence of Los Angeles. Emerging from the heart of the city, this brand has carved its own space by blending deep-rooted local pride with a fearless creative spirit. Founded in 2013 by Chris "Spanto" Printup and Alex "2Tone" Erdmann, Born X Raised has stood as a powerful voice for authenticity, heritage, and resistance to gentrification. Over the years, it has become a symbol of loyalty to one’s roots and a celebration of the unseen communities that make LA what it truly is.
The Roots of the Brand
The story of Born X Raised is deeply personal and rooted in Los Angeles’ neighborhoods, particularly Venice and Westside. Co-founder Spanto, a Native American and Mexican-American raised in Venice, created the brand during a time of profound personal transformation. Having faced incarceration and a later cancer diagnosis, Spanto used the brand as a form of rebirth—a way to honor where he came from and to shine a light on the communities that often go overlooked in the glamorized versions of LA.
2Tone, the other half of the founding duo, brought his background in music, writing, and design to the table. Together, they formed a creative force that prioritized storytelling over trends. They didn’t just sell clothes—they sold messages. Each piece reflected a social commentary, an ode to LA’s culture, and a nod to the streets that raised them.
More Than Just Merchandise
What makes Born X Raised stand apart is its refusal to cater to mainstream fashion whims. While many streetwear brands shift with trends, Born X Raised sticks to its ethos. Their designs often incorporate bold statements, old English fonts, and imagery that reflects LA's gritty beauty and cultural tension. Whether it’s referencing gang culture, local sports teams, or political struggles, the brand never shies away from controversy.
The clothes aren't meant for everyone—and that's the point. Bornxraised hoodie speaks directly to those who know the codes of the city, those who understand the symbolism and the unspoken rules of the streets. In doing so, the brand creates an intimate, loyal community of fans who feel seen and heard.
The Battle Against Gentrification
One of Born X Raised’s loudest messages is its critique of gentrification. Los Angeles has undergone major transformations in recent decades, with neighborhoods like Venice, Echo Park, and Highland Park becoming unrecognizable to their original residents. Spanto and 2Tone have been vocal about how development and rising rent prices are displacing the very communities that built these areas.
The brand often uses its platform to highlight the loss of cultural identity caused by gentrification. Through T-shirts, videos, and social media, they document changes in the city, preserving the memory of what once was. This dedication has made Born X Raised a time capsule of sorts—a reminder of an LA that refuses to be erased.
Collaborations With a Message
While Born X Raised remains fiercely independent, the brand has collaborated with major names in a way that still maintains its voice. Collaborations with Nike, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and even the NFL have allowed the brand to amplify its reach while still centering community and culture.
One of the most notable collaborations was with the Dodgers. For many Angelenos, the team represents more than baseball—it’s a symbol of LA pride. The collection featured bold graphics that paid homage to Latino culture and local fans. Despite working with a massive sports franchise, Born X Raised remained true to its roots, using the opportunity to celebrate its community rather than dilute its message.
Spanto’s Legacy and Impact
In January 2023, the streetwear community was shaken by the passing of co-founder Spanto. His death marked the end of a chapter, but not the legacy he built. For many, Spanto was not just a designer—he was a symbol of resilience, transformation, and truth. His personal journey from gang culture to creative entrepreneur inspired a new generation of artists and designers.
Even after his passing, Born X Raised continues to operate with the same principles Spanto held dear. The team, with 2Tone at the creative helm, continues to drop collections that carry his vision forward. Spanto’s legacy is felt in every piece of clothing, every campaign, and every tribute made by fans across the globe.
The Emotional Weight of Every Drop
Unlike brands that release products just to meet demand, Born X Raised approaches every drop with purpose. Their limited runs are often tied to personal or historical events—moments that matter deeply to the founders and their community. These aren’t just clothes; they are statements. Some collections are tributes to loved ones lost. Others are reflections on the changing face of the city.
This emotional weight behind each release creates a deeper connection between the brand and its audience. Fans don’t just buy Born X Raised because it’s cool. They buy it because it means something—because it tells a story they feel a part of.
Influence on the Global Streetwear Scene
Born X Raised’s reach has extended far beyond Los Angeles. The brand's authenticity has resonated with people across the world who are dealing with their own versions of cultural erasure, gentrification, and identity crises. What started as a local brand has turned into a global voice for street culture, representing a version of streetwear that prioritizes message over mass appeal.
In cities like New York, London, and Tokyo, Born X Raised has found fans who connect with its raw honesty and defiant spirit. It has proven that authenticity travels—that people everywhere crave stories that are real and unfiltered.
Looking Ahead
As Born X Raised moves forward, the brand faces the challenge of staying true to its foundation while expanding its influence. With Spanto’s legacy as a guiding light and 2Tone’s creative vision steering the ship, the brand is well-positioned to continue its growth without compromise.
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