Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand—it’s a cultural movement. Rooted deeply in the streets of Los Angeles, it represents authenticity, pride, and the voice of a community that often gets overlooked. Since its inception, the brand has managed to capture the essence of real LA life, not the Hollywood version, but the raw, unfiltered reality of neighborhoods, struggles, and identity. It has evolved into a symbol of resistance, respect, and recognition for many who have lived the LA experience firsthand.

The Origins of a Movement

Born X Raised was founded in 2013 by two Los Angeles natives, Chris “Spanto” Printup and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann. The idea came from a shared desire to represent their city in a way that no brand had done before. For them, LA wasn’t just palm trees and celebrities—it was a place of culture clashes, deep roots, and community ties that went far beyond the surface.

Spanto, in particular, brought a unique vision to the brand. He was raised in Venice, a part of LA that has experienced intense gentrification over the years. Watching his neighborhood change, with many locals being displaced and their stories forgotten, Spanto made it his mission to preserve that culture. Born X Raised was his way of saying that the city still belonged to its original communities. It was about staking a claim, remembering the past, and refusing to be erased.

A Visual and Cultural Identity

The designs of Bornxraised hoodie reflect more than fashion trends—they tell stories. Whether it's old English fonts, classic Chicano iconography, or slogans like “On the Turf,” every piece feels like it has a message. The brand doesn’t cater to everyone, and that’s intentional. It speaks to those who understand its language, those who grew up with backyard barbecues, lowriders, and the unspoken codes of the neighborhood.

The brand’s visuals often include religious references, street signs, vintage imagery, and symbols of LA’s multicultural tapestry. These designs aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about memory, pride, and rebellion. People wear Born X Raised not just to look good but to feel connected to a greater story. It gives identity to those who’ve felt invisible and elevates a culture that’s rarely celebrated on the mainstream stage.

Collaborations and Impact

Despite its roots in underground culture, Born X Raised has caught the attention of major names in both fashion and pop culture. The brand has collaborated with the likes of Nike, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and even the LA Lakers. Yet, even with this success, it has never lost its authenticity. Each collaboration has remained true to the brand’s DNA, always putting the community first.

These partnerships have allowed the brand to bring LA’s real story to a global audience. While mainstream fashion often borrows from street culture without understanding it, Born X Raised brings depth and history to the table. When you see someone wearing a Born X Raised piece, you’re seeing a connection to a movement, not just a trend.

Challenges and Resilience

Like many cultural movements, Born X Raised has not had an easy journey. The fashion world can be cutthroat, and staying true to your roots while growing a successful brand is a balancing act. But perhaps the biggest challenge came in the form of personal tragedy. In 2023, the brand’s co-founder, Spanto, passed away after a long battle with cancer. His death was a blow not just to the company but to the community that loved and respected him.

Spanto’s vision was the heartbeat of Born X Raised. His story—overcoming prison, cancer, and systemic obstacles—was woven into every shirt, jacket, and hat the brand produced. His passing left a void, but it also sparked a deeper commitment among his team and followers to keep the brand alive. Today, Born X Raised continues in his spirit, carrying forward his mission of cultural pride and remembrance.

Community at the Core

What truly sets Born X Raised apart is its unwavering commitment to community. From its early days, the brand has been involved in giving back. Whether it's organizing charity drives, feeding families during the holidays, or spotlighting local artists and creators, Born X Raised has always invested in the people it represents.

It’s more than just branding—it’s a philosophy. The idea is that fashion can be a form of resistance, a voice for those who don’t usually get one. By keeping its roots in the community, the brand has maintained a rare kind of authenticity that can’t be manufactured. It doesn’t try to be trendy; it simply tells the truth.

The Legacy Continues

In the ever-changing world of fashion, where brands come and go, Born X Raised has carved out a space that feels permanent. It stands as a reminder of what streetwear used to be before it became a commercial industry. It’s a brand with purpose, rooted in a time, a place, and a people.

With Spanto’s legacy guiding its future, Born X Raised isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. Every new collection, every campaign, and every community event adds another layer to a legacy built on love, loyalty, and Los Angeles pride. The message is clear: no matter how much the city changes, the spirit of its people will remain.

Conclusion

Born X Raised is not just about clothes—it’s about storytelling, heritage, and resistance. From its humble beginnings in the heart of LA to its current status as a globally recognized symbol of authenticity, the brand has never wavered in its mission. It’s a voice for the unheard, a platform for the unseen, and a testament to the power of staying true to your roots.