A new enterprise has emerged from Dallas, offering a distinctive approach to expressing national pride through apparel. RiserUnited, an online clothing company, allows individuals to outwardly display their core beliefs by providing patriotic attire that reveres the American flag and its foundational principles.
Embracing American Values Through Design
Launched on Flag Day in June 2024, this digital retail venture has swiftly established itself with a commitment to fostering a sense of gratitude and unity. Alina Rubinshteyn, the Vice President of Sales and Brand Engagement at RiserUnited, emphasizes that understanding the flag’s symbolism can cultivate appreciation and help bring people together.
The company’s product line encompasses a diverse range of clothing for men and women, including shirts, hoodies, and fleeces, alongside home items like blankets and mugs. Each product is designed to encapsulate a “spirit of liberty and freedom.” A unique aspect of RiserUnited’s brand identity is its subtly designed logo, which ingeniously blends the imagery of a flag with the hand-over-the-heart gesture synonymous with the Pledge of Allegiance. This design philosophy underpins their “quietly patriotic” approach. Unlike brands that feature overt national symbols, RiserUnited aims for versatility, offering apparel that can be styled for various occasions while still embedding a feeling of gratitude through the logo’s subtle presence. Beyond aesthetics, the brand places a strong emphasis on the quality of its fabrics and the uniqueness of its product offerings.
Highlighting Historical Significance
Among RiserUnited’s most sought-after items is “The Greatest American Hoodie.” This gray hoodie is available in seven variations, each specifically honoring the four iconic Iowa-class battleships of World War II: the USS Iowa, USS New Jersey, USS Missouri, and USS Wisconsin. This flagship product exemplifies RiserUnited’s dedication to historical acknowledgment, being crafted in America from domestically sourced materials and officially licensed by the U.S. Navy. The company views history as a vital element to consistently feature in its collections.
A Vision for Domestic Manufacturing
The impetus behind RiserUnited’s creation stems from founder Steve Needham’s desire to counteract brands that contribute to societal division. He believes that while protests are a fundamental right, they should not be conducted in a manner that disrespects national symbols.
While RiserUnited currently incorporates international sourcing for certain components of its manufacturing process, a significant portion of its products are entirely made in the U.S. The company holds an ambitious long-term objective: to progressively expand its production of American-made goods, viewing this commitment as an exciting and rewarding challenge.
Jonathan Reed received his MA in Journalism from Columbia University and has reported on corporate governance and leadership for major business magazines. His coverage focuses on executive decision-making, startup innovation, and the evolving role of technology in driving business growth.