Born x Raised Founder Chris Printup, better known as Spanto, has passed away at the age of 42. The official cause of death has not been released, but several online reports have indicated that the Venice, CA, native was involved in a fatal car accident. Spanto founded Born X Raised in 2011 as a love letter to his hometown and has since collaborated with brands like Reebok, Vans, Union LA, The Los Angeles Rams, The Los Angeles Lakers, Levis, and more. Born X Raised has a Nike SB Dunk low scheduled to release in July that went viral earlier this month when he gifted graduating seniors from Venice High School early pairs.
From championing his city and Native American roots to thoughtful collaborations with Homeboy Industries, Taco Bell, and others, Spanto and his business partner Alex2Tone created one of the world’s most raw and authentic brands. Its collaborations with LA Sports teams have become gameday staples for fans that sell out in minutes. What’s most admirable about the brand’s rise is how Spanto gained the respect of fashion’s elite while staying true to his Venice, CA roots. If you’re just learning about Spanto and Born X Raised or want to learn more, I recommend listening to his recent episode on the Throwing Fits podcast, where he shares some amazing stories about Born X Raised’s rise, his battle with terminal cancer, and more.
Spanto is survived by his wife and children.