Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand. It’s a cultural movement rooted in the streets of Los Angeles. Since its inception, the brand has carved out a distinct identity by blending fashion, local pride, and raw storytelling. With deep roots in the neighborhoods of LA, Born X Raised reflects the voices of the often-overlooked communities and the real essence of West Coast living.
Founded by Spanto and 2Tone, two natives of Venice, California, Born X Raised emerged as a response to the gentrification of their city and the marginalization of its original culture. Their story is one of resilience, creativity, and loyalty to the streets that raised them. Over the years, the brand has grown from a grassroots project to a globally recognized symbol of authenticity and community.
The Origins of Born X Raised
The story of Born X Raised begins in Venice, one of Los Angeles’ most iconic neighborhoods. However, beneath its surf-friendly, tourist-heavy image lies a complex history of racial tension, displacement, and cultural erasure. As gentrification rapidly transformed the city, many long-time residents found themselves pushed out, and the community's original character began to fade.
Spanto, born Chris Printup, and 2Tone launched Born X Raised in 2013 as a way to push back against that erasure. The name “Born X Raised” isn’t just a clever phrase—it’s a declaration of identity. It's a reminder that real roots matter, that heritage should be respected, and that culture is not disposable. The brand was their way of preserving the traditions, language, and codes of the neighborhoods they grew up in.
A Brand With a Message
What sets Born X Raised apart from other streetwear brands is its message. Each design, drop, and campaign is infused with meaning. Whether it's a t-shirt with bold lettering or a jacket with intricate artwork, the pieces tell stories. They speak to people who grew up in neighborhoods where police sirens were common, where loyalty was earned, and where community meant everything.
The brand often touches on themes Bornxraised hoodie like identity, pride, struggle, and heritage. It's not about following fashion trends or pleasing the mainstream. It’s about being unapologetically real. Many of their most successful pieces are inspired by LA gang culture, Chicano art, and old-school hip-hop aesthetics. These aren’t just fashion choices—they're cultural statements.
Collaborations and Cultural Impact
Over the years, Born X Raised has collaborated with some of the biggest names in fashion, sports, and entertainment. Their partnerships with brands like Nike, Converse, and the Los Angeles Dodgers have helped push their message to a wider audience. But even with their growing popularity, they’ve never lost touch with their roots.
What makes these collaborations special is that they still reflect the spirit of the brand. For instance, when Born X Raised partnered with the Dodgers, it wasn’t just a merch play—it was a celebration of Los Angeles and its neighborhoods. They even held events in the community, giving back to the people who helped build the culture they represent.
Celebrities like Kendrick Lamar, A$AP Rocky, and LeBron James have been seen wearing Born X Raised, further pushing its influence into the mainstream. However, the brand has never relied on celebrity endorsements to prove its value. It remains grounded in its mission to uplift and represent the underrepresented.
The Art of Limited Drops
Born X Raised is known for its limited edition drops, which often sell out in minutes. This approach not only builds hype but also creates a sense of exclusivity and community. Those who wear Born X Raised aren’t just wearing clothes—they’re representing a movement.
Every drop tells a story. From the design to the rollout, everything is carefully curated. The brand doesn’t flood the market with products. Instead, they create pieces that mean something and release them when the time is right. This strategy has not only kept the brand relevant but also earned them a fiercely loyal following.
Community First
Despite their commercial success, Born X Raised has always prioritized the community. They’ve organized food drives, school supply giveaways, and events for underprivileged youth in Los Angeles. This community-driven focus is what truly separates them from many other brands in the streetwear space.
Their events aren’t just photo ops. They’re real moments where people from all walks of life can come together, connect, and celebrate their shared identity. The brand has always maintained a close relationship with its supporters, treating them more like family than customers.
Even in times of crisis, like during the COVID-19 pandemic, Born X Raised stepped up. They donated to local organizations and continued to spotlight important social issues through their platforms. Their loyalty to the community isn’t just talk—it’s a core part of their DNA.
A Legacy of Realness
Spanto passed away in 2023, but his legacy lives on through Born X Raised. His vision continues to guide the brand, and his message of pride, resistance, and authenticity remains at its heart. Born X Raised today is not just a streetwear label—it’s a symbol of a culture that refuses to be erased.
2Tone, who continues to run the brand, ensures that the core values remain intact. There’s a deep respect for the past and a commitment to building a better future. Through their clothing, they continue to amplify the voices of the unheard and bring attention to stories that matter.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is more than fashion—it’s a movement rooted in identity, loyalty, and resistance. It’s a love letter to Los Angeles and the communities that make the city what it is. In an industry that often thrives on imitation and flash, Born X Raised stands firm in authenticity.
