Born x Raised is more than just a clothing brand—it’s a cultural movement deeply rooted in Los Angeles street culture, resilience, and authenticity. Founded in 2013 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann, the brand emerged as a tribute to the unfiltered essence of LA, blending Chicano influences, skateboarding, hip-hop, and the raw realities of street life. With its bold designs, poignant messaging, and unapologetic attitude, Born x Raised has become a symbol of pride for those who embody the true spirit of their neighborhoods.
Origins and Founding Philosophy
Born x Raised was born out of necessity—a response to the gentrification and cultural dilution threatening LA’s historic communities. Spanto, a Venice Beach native, and 2Tone, a graffiti artist and designer, sought to create a brand that honored their roots while challenging mainstream narratives. The name itself, Born x Raised, is a declaration of identity, emphasizing that where you come from shapes who you are.
The brand’s early designs featured provocative slogans like “On the Turf” and “Criminal Original”, paying homage to the streets that raised them. Unlike other streetwear labels that glamorized urban life from an outsider’s perspective, Born x Raised spoke from experience, capturing the struggles, loyalty, and unbreakable bonds of LA’s working-class neighborhoods.
Cultural Impact and Collaborations
One of the keys to Born x Raised’s success is its refusal to compromise its values. The brand has collaborated with major names like Nike, New Era, and the Los Angeles Dodgers, but each partnership stays true to its roots. For example, their Dodgers collection wasn’t just about baseball—it was a tribute to the generations of Chicano and Black fans who made the team a cultural institution.
Perhaps one of their most notable collaborations was with Nike SB, where they reimagined classic sneakers with LA-inspired details, reinforcing their commitment to skate culture. These partnerships never felt like sell-outs; instead, they amplified the voices of the communities Born x Raised represents.
The Art of Storytelling Through Design
Every Born x Raised piece tells a story. From graphic tees featuring lowrider art to hoodies with bold serif fonts reminiscent of old-school tattoo lettering, the brand’s aesthetic is a visual love letter to LA’s Chicano and street heritage. Their designs often incorporate:
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Old English lettering – A nod to Chicano gang culture and LA’s tattoo history.
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Black-and-white photography – Showcasing real people and moments from the streets.
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Provocative slogans – Such as “I Might Be Wrong, But I Doubt It” and “They Don’t Love You Like I Love You”, reflecting defiance and loyalty.
The brand also frequently references LA’s history, from the Zoot Suit Riots to the 1992 uprisings, ensuring that younger generations remember their roots.
Community and Activism
Beyond fashion, Born x Raised is deeply involved in grassroots activism. After Spanto’s tragic passing in 2023 (following a long battle with cancer), the brand’s mission became even more poignant. His legacy lives on through initiatives supporting at-risk youth, local artists, and anti-gentrification efforts.
The brand has also used its platform to address police brutality, systemic inequality, and the erasure of Black and Brown communities in LA. Their “Protect Your Energy” campaign, for example, was a call for mental resilience in the face of adversity.
Legacy and Future of Born x Raised
Spanto’s untimely death left a void, but Born x Raised continues to thrive under 2Tone and a dedicated team committed to upholding its ethos. The brand remains a beacon for authenticity in an industry often driven by trends rather than substance.
As streetwear evolves, Born x Raised stands as a reminder that true culture can’t be bought—it’s earned through lived experience. Whether through collaborations, limited drops, or community work, the brand ensures that the spirit of LA’s streets is never forgotten.
Conclusion
Born x Raised is more than clothing—it’s a movement. It represents the resilience of LA’s neighborhoods, the beauty of Chicano culture, and the unbreakable bond between identity and place. In a world where streetwear often prioritizes profit over purpose, Born x Raised remains a defiant voice for those who were born and raised in the struggle, proving that real culture will always rise to the top.
