Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand—it is a cultural statement born out of pride, identity, and the preservation of a city’s roots. Founded in 2013 by Chris “Spanto” Printup and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann, Born X Raised emerged from Venice, California, as a direct response to the rapid gentrification sweeping through Los Angeles. The brand was born from a need to protect the soul of neighborhoods that were being transformed and displaced.
Spanto and 2Tone didn’t set out to create a fashion empire; they wanted to tell the story of a city. For them, clothes were simply the canvas. Born X Raised became the loudspeaker through which they could project their love for their community, their anger about its changing identity, and their belief in preserving the old-school ways of life that had shaped them.
A Deep Connection to Los Angeles
What separates Born X Raised from many other streetwear brands is its unshakable connection to its hometown. Every collection, design, and campaign is dripping with references to Los Angeles culture—from the fonts that mimic old gang graffiti, to the phrases and slogans that echo the voices of the past.
The brand reflects the tough, gritty, and authentic energy of L.A.’s overlooked communities. Whether it’s the street signs, the murals, the backyard parties, or the decades-old local spots, Born X Raised pays tribute to what makes the city special for the people who actually grew up there.
This authenticity is what has earned the brand respect not only in fashion circles, but among the people of L.A. themselves. Unlike other brands that borrow culture to sell products, Born X Raised represents the real deal.
Streetwear as a Form of Protest
From the beginning, Bornxraised hoodie was political—even if it didn’t look like it at first glance. The designs speak to the people who have seen their blocks bulldozed, their culture pushed aside, and their stories erased. The clothing tells a story of survival in a city that often forgets its past.
The brand’s slogan, “On the Turf,” reflects this resistance. It’s a reminder that the founders—and those who wear their clothes—stand firmly on the ground they were raised on. It’s about never forgetting where you come from, and never allowing that place to be erased without a fight.
This mindset resonated with many people outside of Los Angeles, too. As gentrification became a global issue, the message of Born X Raised spread far beyond California. Cities like New York, Chicago, and London found solidarity in the brand’s vision and voice.
Collaborations and Influence
Despite its underground roots, Born X Raised has gained widespread recognition in the fashion world. Over the years, it has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry and beyond. From Nike to the Los Angeles Dodgers, these collaborations have served as major milestones—but they have never changed the soul of the brand.
Each collaboration has remained true to the Born X Raised ethos. When they worked with the Dodgers, for example, it wasn’t just about slapping a logo on a jersey. It was about celebrating the history of baseball in Los Angeles, the fans who grew up watching games at Dodger Stadium, and the deep emotional ties between the city and its team.
Even their collaboration with Nike carried a local story. It wasn’t about global hype—it was about L.A. pride. That’s why Born X Raised remains respected in both high fashion and the streets.
Tragedy and Legacy: The Loss of Spanto
In 2023, the brand and the wider community suffered a heartbreaking loss. Chris “Spanto” Printup passed away, leaving behind a powerful legacy of creativity, activism, and authenticity. His death sent shockwaves through the world of fashion and beyond, as tributes poured in from fellow designers, artists, and fans who were touched by his vision.
Spanto’s life was marked by a deep commitment to his people. Born X Raised was his way of giving something back to the neighborhoods that raised him. Even in the face of cancer, which he battled publicly, he remained a figure of strength and inspiration.
The brand continues in his honor, driven by the values he held dear. The message hasn’t changed. If anything, it has grown stronger in the wake of his passing. Born X Raised now stands as a monument to the belief that culture, memory, and identity are worth fighting for.
The Future of Born X Raised
As the fashion world continues to evolve, Born X Raised finds itself in a unique position. It has become a symbol for authenticity in an industry often accused of being shallow and trend-driven. Yet, it continues to operate by its own rules.
Rather than chasing hype or trying to outdo competitors, Born X Raised stays rooted in storytelling. Its designs still come from the heart, still reflect the streets, and still speak to the people who grew up feeling invisible in their own cities.
The future of the brand lies in the continuation of its mission. Whether through limited drops, pop-ups in historic neighborhoods, or heartfelt community projects, Born X Raised will remain a platform for truth and representation. As cities change and identities blur, the brand remains a reminder of what can be lost—and what’s worth preserving.
Why Born X Raised Matters
In a world where fast fashion dominates and brands often have little to say, Born X Raised stands out by saying something powerful: We were here. We mattered. We still do.
The clothing may be what people wear, but the message is what people carry. It’s about pride. It’s about resistance. It’s about holding on to what makes a place—and its people—unique.
