In this blog post, our founder Christian Borys shares the journey of creating the Defender Polartec® 1/4 Zip Fleece—a mission-driven product made entirely in Ukraine, designed to withstand the toughest conditions. From ditching "print on demand" to producing world-class gear in the midst of conflict, we took the hard road to deliver something meaningful. Inspired by the feedback of Ukrainian soldiers and crafted with Polartec® Thermal Pro® technology, this fleece isn’t just about warmth and durability; it’s about purpose, resilience, and honoring those who inspire us every day.

From day one, Saint Javelin has been about sharing the voices of Ukraine’s defenders, and honoring the resilience and stories of those who risk their lives daily. For our 2024 Defender Collection, we’re bringing forward stories of courage directly from the front lines. 

This year, we had the privilege of speaking with Iordan Konstantinidi, a 27-year-old combat medic serving in the 82th Separate Assault Brigade. His shift, from a vibrant life in Odesa to the realities of wartime, illustrates the resilience of Ukraine’s defenders.

As we present this year’s Defender Collection, we bring you voices from the front lines that reflect the resilience, courage, and dedication of Ukraine’s defenders. This year, we’re honored to share the story of Daria, known by her call sign "Hilka," a lieutenant in the National Guard and a pilot of combat drones. Her story offers a clear-eyed view of the war and serves as a reminder of why the world cannot turn away from Ukraine’s fight.

Our founder Christian shares insights from a recent trip to Ukraine. From visiting manufacturing partners across the country to collaborating with Ukrainian shipping giants like Nova Poshta, this blog post offers a glimpse into the heart of Saint Javelin’s mission: supporting Ukraine while producing high-quality gear inspired by defenders.

When we asked Oleh to create a design for us, he reimagined the iconic Saint Javelin image in his distinctive style. He requested photos that represent what Saint Javelin stands for and the powerful community behind it. From there, he began crafting the artwork that now appears on The Anthology of Saint Javelin t-shirts. Let us guide you through the design elements and the hidden symbols woven into this unique piece.

As the world witnesses intensifying attacks across Ukraine, the city of Kharkiv stands strong.

Despite the relentless assaults on civilian infrastructure and the constant threat of missile strikes, local businesses continue to operate, providing essential services and jobs. Supporting these businesses has never been more crucial as it economically supports the largest frontline city.

A general update on what russia is doing in Kharkiv and how it impacts our work. 

Ever since we embarked on our journey of crafting clothing in Ukraine, one dream was to create a truly unique vyshyvanka, a traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt infused with a contemporary flair. Finally, we able to present you our special vyshyvanka “Syla” which symbolizes the strength of Ukraine.

If you've been closely following Ukrainian political leaders, cultural figures, or everyday heroes, you may have noticed them adorned in the captivating attire of embroidered shirts known as vyshyvankas. Vyshyvanka, deriving from the Ukrainian word for traditional embroidered shirts or dresses, stands as a centerpiece of Ukraine's national attire.

We’re making mugs again, and they’re 100% made in Ukraine!

By prioritizing the comfort and well-being of those who serve, for each pair of socks you buy from us, we will provide the highest quality pair that offers both practical functionality and essential support to a Ukrainian defender.

Karpaty, in Western Ukraine, also known as the Carpathian Mountains, is a very special place to me. In a very real sense, the Karpaty inspired the creation of Saint Javelin.

In this interview with Oleksii Vykhrenko, known by his callsign "Yogurt," a cook of the 47th Separate Mechanised Brigade Magura, we delve into the profound commitment and unwavering dedication that drive him to prepare meals for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Now that it’s October and the summer looks like it’s actually over, it’s time for the sun to set on our Crimea Beach Party campaign for this year. Let’s recap what we achieved this summer with the Crimea Beach Party.

In our new interview series, we aim to highlight the personal stories of people who suffered from the Russian aggression and continue to fight it in different ways. Read the story of Liia, a 21-year-old Crimean activist and volunteer.

The Independence Lifeline fundraiser, organized by the Unite with Ukraine initiative by the Ukrainian World Congress and supported by Saint Javelin, generated $103,121 in 7 days. All funds raised will be used to supply Ukrainian defenders and paramedics with Quality Tactical medical supplies.

In May 2023, to bring attention to the brave Azovstal defenders who still remain in Russian captivity, we launched a limited-edition sale of ‘Our Lady of Mariupol’ illustration by the Ukrainian artist Maksym Palenko. Since then, we have donated $18,808 to the Azovstal Defender’s Families fund.

At the beginning of 2023, we set an ambitious goal – to start gradually moving our manufacturing to Ukraine. Learn how Saint Javelin is making a difference with Crimea Beach Party collection by working with local manufacturers.

Now that you’ve picked your Crimea Beach Party outfits from our collection, let us walk you through how your purchases will help to support Ukrainian defenders as they liberate Ukraine’s territories.

From a single comment in the group chat to a social media sensation, culminating in a proudly Ukrainian-produced collection. Our Founder, Christian Borys, recalls how Saint Javelin came up with the idea of the Crimea Beach Party.

In March 2023, Saint Javelin made another round of contributions to support Ukraine's fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Here is a complete breakdown of what happened.