STINGRAY: A Czech brand that dresses the sea

Who would have expected that a sailing apparel brand would emerge hundreds of kilometers from the sea, in a landscape where forests whisper instead of salty waves, and where the Vltava River winds through valleys? And yet, in the South Bohemian town of Týn nad Vltavou, the brand STINGRAY was born in 2023. Just like the stingray—an impeccable swimmer that gracefully navigates the oceans—STINGRAY clothing helps sailors withstand wind, waves, and the whims of the weather while conquering nautical miles. 

From land to waves: How STINGRAY was created

Behind the STINGRAY brand stands a duo of sailors, Láďa Smetana and Jarka Hrušková. Although the brand officially came to life in 2023, its story began much earlier—in 2007, when Láďa sold his beloved diving boat, convinced that another one would soon follow. But plans sometimes run aground on the shallow waters of reality. The new boat only arrived fifteen years later—and with it, the need for proper sailing clothing.

There were plenty of options on the market, but something essential was missing: European production. Well-known brands had long been manufacturing overseas, where tradition had become just a label and quality a mere business calculation. Settle for that? Not a chance. So Láďa and Jarka decided to take matters into their own hands. If top-quality membranes and fine merino wool can be made in the Czech Republic, why shouldn’t Czech hands be capable of sewing first-class sailing apparel?

Thus, STINGRAY became not only a brand but also proof that quality and honest craftsmanship don't need to travel halfway around the world. 

By sailors, for sailors

STINGRAY was created out of the need to design sailing apparel that is not only functional but also stylish—clothing that can handle waves, wind, rain, and salty water while remaining comfortable and durable even after years of use. The development of each new model is done in collaboration with Czech sailors, who test the clothing in real conditions. One of them is Jiří Zindulka, an experienced mariner and sailing instructor. 

STINGRAY’s philosophy is to manufacture everything using Czech or at least European materials, which they successfully achieve—except for a few exceptions that can only be produced in Asia. This approach allows the founders to maintain full control over the entire production process—from material selection to the final product. This not only guarantees quality but also ensures fast delivery and fair working conditions for employees. 

Collaboration with SVITAP: Quality that withstands storms

Our collaboration with STINGRAY began in 2023 when they approached us with a clear vision—they needed materials that could endure wind, rain, and salty water without failing them. After multiple tests and trials, a hydrophobic membrane was selected. 

And what exactly do our hydrophobic membranes do? They accomplish what ordinary materials cannot. They repel water and wind while remaining breathable, which is a crucial feature for functional apparel. This means that STINGRAY clothing is not only waterproof but also breathable—essential for moments when there is no room for compromise on deck. 

The new SEA collection: Ready for the Mediterranean

STINGRAY continues to sail forward. In the spring of 2025, it will launch the SEA collection, specifically designed for Mediterranean conditions. Statistics show that up to 90% of Czech sailors head to these waters, making it essential to create apparel perfectly suited to these conditions. 

The SEA collection offers everything sailors in the south need. It includes high-quality membrane jackets and trousers that withstand not only strong winds but also intense rain. The collection also features clothing made from merino wool, an ideal companion for the Mediterranean climate. Merino wool is a master at regulating temperature and wicking moisture. 

When Czech precision meets world-class quality

We are truly excited to collaborate with innovative Czech manufacturers like STINGRAY. These are people who don’t just follow trends but seek their own paths to realize their vision while staying true to their original purpose. 

We are proud to be part of their story. With each new piece created by these passionate individuals, it becomes clear that Czech innovation has global reach. Láďa and Jarka pursued their dream and proved that high-quality sailing apparel can indeed be made in the heart of Europe. 

www.textilni-laminace.cz / www.stingray.cz