DRIFT

 


Los Angeles has long been a cultural epicenter for streetwear, sports, and self-expression. The city’s vibrant mix of influences, from hip-hop to skateboarding to sports, has given birth to some of the most iconic streetwear labels in the world. Now, in a major collaboration, two homegrown brands—UNDEFEATED and Badfriend—are joining forces for the first time, crafting a collection that encapsulates the essence of LA’s sports-driven style.

The new UNDEFEATED x Badfriend capsule collection, set to drop tomorrow, February 1, brings together the distinct aesthetics of both brands. With a focus on sportswear staples like football jerseys, graphic T-shirts, and headwear, the collection merges UNDEFEATED’s legacy as a dominant force in sneaker and street culture with Badfriend’s rising influence in the LA fashion scene.

This connection is more than just a collection—it’s a statement. It’s a celebration of Los Angeles culture, a nod to the city’s unbreakable sports heritage, and a testament to the power of streetwear in shaping contemporary fashion. Let’s take a closer look at this exciting partnership, the pieces in the collection, and what this means for the future of LA streetwear.

UNDEFEATED and Badfriend: A Meeting of Minds

UNDEFEATED: A Streetwear Giant

Since its inception in 2002, UNDEFEATED has been a cornerstone of the streetwear and sneaker world. Founded by James Bond and Eddie Cruz, the brand started as a sneaker boutique in Los Angeles and quickly expanded into one of the most respected labels in the game. Known for its five-strike logo, UNDEFEATED has built a reputation through high-profile collaborations with Nike, Jordan Brand, Adidas, and more.

What sets UNDEFEATED apart is its ability to blend sports aesthetics with a streetwear mentality. Whether through its signature varsity-inspired collections or military-infused designs, the brand consistently finds ways to pay homage to athletic culture while remaining true to the street.

Badfriend: Jairo Garcia’s Underground Powerhouse

On the other side of this collaboration is Badfriend, the brainchild of Jairo Garcia. While Badfriend might not have the same deep-rooted history as UNDEFEATED, it has quickly built a cult following for its distinct approach to LA fashion. Badfriend operates with a rebellious spirit, often incorporating bold, eye-catching graphics and unconventional designs.

Jairo Garcia’s label is deeply connected to LA’s underground scene, tapping into music, art, and the city’s unique creative energy. Its aesthetic is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, making it a perfect partner for UNDEFEATED, which thrives on mixing past and present influences.

By teaming up, UNDEFEATED and Badfriend are bridging generational and stylistic gaps in LA streetwear, merging the established legacy of one brand with the rising momentum of another.

Breaking Down the Collection

At the core of the UNDEFEATED x Badfriend collaboration is a lineup of sportswear essentials—football jerseys, graphic tees, and headwear. Each piece is an extension of LA’s love for sports, competition, and street culture.

Football Jerseys: Athletic-Inspired Streetwear

Football jerseys have long been a staple in LA’s streetwear scene, often worn oversized and styled with everything from baggy jeans to basketball shorts. For this collab, UNDEFEATED and Badfriend deliver two football jerseys, each reflecting the DNA of both brands.

•The Black Football Jersey:

•Features number 43—a nod to UNDEFEATED’s deep history in sportswear culture.

•Yellow detailing along the cuffs and accents adds a bold contrast.

•Badfriend’s logo sits on the chest, making a subtle yet strong statement.

•UNDEFEATED’s five-strike logo is prominently stamped on the sleeves.

•The back features co-branded logos encircling the number, reinforcing the connection’s identity.

•Sublimation Print Football Jersey:

•This jersey goes a step further, featuring an all-over sublimation print.

•Embroidered graphics elevate the premium feel.

•The design is more intricate, making it a standout piece in the collection.

These jerseys exemplify the crossover between sportswear and street fashion, a space that both UNDEFEATED and Badfriend thrive in.

Graphic T-Shirt: A Playful Take on Medals & Legacy

Beyond the jerseys, the collection includes a standout graphic T-shirt that plays with the idea of sports accolades.

•The tee features a screen-printed array of medals around the neckline.

•Each medal is adorned with UNDEFEATED or Badfriend branding, reinforcing the collaborative spirit.

•The design reflects the pride and achievement often associated with athletic victories—reimagined through a streetwear lens.

This T-shirt is both humorous and meaningful, drawing inspiration from sports while maintaining an ironic, fashion-forward aesthetic.

Headwear: Strapback Hat & Beanie

To round out the collection, UNDEFEATED x Badfriend present a strapback hat and a beanie, both of which continue the co-branded theme.

•The strapback hat is a classic silhouette, featuring simple branding that complements the rest of the collection.

•The beanie offers a more casual, winter-ready option, perfect for layering with the jerseys or tees.

Headwear has always been a critical accessory in streetwear, and these pieces ensure that fans can rep the collaboration from head to toe.

The Cultural Significance of the Collab

This collaboration is bigger than just clothing. It represents a union of old-school and new-school LA streetwear. UNDEFEATED, with its 22-year legacy, stands as an elder statesman in the scene, while Badfriend brings fresh energy and a new perspective.

LA’s Love for Sportswear & Street Fashion

Los Angeles is a city where sports and streetwear are deeply intertwined. From basketball culture to the influence of football and baseball jerseys in everyday style, LA fashion has long borrowed from athletic aesthetics.

•The LA Rams and Lakers have some of the most loyal fans, many of whom integrate jerseys and team colors into their streetwear looks.

•The rise of hip-hop and skate culture in LA has further cemented the city’s reputation as a sportswear-meets-streetwear capital.

By focusing on football jerseys, this collaboration directly taps into LA’s long-standing love for sports and fashion.

A New Generation of Collaborations

In the world of streetwear, collaborations have become a defining force, but not all collabs feel organic. The UNDEFEATED x Badfriend collection, however, is an authentic partnership that makes sense—two LA-rooted brands coming together to celebrate their city.

This collab could set the tone for future partnerships, where legacy brands team up with emerging designers to create something fresh and meaningful.

Where to Buy the Collection

The UNDEFEATED x Badfriend collection will officially drop tomorrow, February 1. Fans can get their hands on the pieces through multiple channels:

•Online: Available at the UNDEFEATED webstore.

•In-Store: Sold at select UNDEFEATED Chapter Stores, including:

•UNDEFEATED La Brea (Los Angeles)

•UNDEFEATED New York

•UNDEFEATED San Francisco

•UNDEFEATED Las Vegas

•UNDEFEATED Phoenix

Given the buzz surrounding the collaboration, expect these pieces to sell out quickly. If you’re a fan of LA streetwear culture, this is one collection you won’t want to miss.

Final Thoughts

The UNDEFEATED x Badfriend collaboration is a perfect example of what makes LA streetwear great—bold designs, sports-inspired aesthetics, and an authentic connection to the culture.

By combining UNDEFEATED’s storied history with Badfriend’s modern energy, this collection is a tribute to LA’s legacy in sports and street fashion. Whether you’re an OG UNDEFEATED fan or new to Badfriend’s movement, this drop represents a moment in LA streetwear history that’s worth celebrating.

Make sure to mark your calendars for February 1—because once these pieces are gone, they might not come back.

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