Solovair

Solovair is a British brand of footwear, particularly known for its Goodyear-welted boots and shoes. Originally produced by NPS Shoes Ltd (Northampton Productive Society) in Wollaston, Northamptonshire, England, Solovair boots were, for a significant period, manufactured under license for the British footwear brand, Dr. Martens.

NPS Shoes began producing boots in 1881. From 1960, they produced Dr. Martens under exclusive license, incorporating the Dr. Martens' sole and upper design into their existing production process. This collaboration lasted for 35 years.

When the licensing agreement ended in the mid-1990s, NPS Shoes continued to produce footwear under its own brand, Solovair, retaining the same high-quality materials and manufacturing techniques they had used for Dr. Martens. The Solovair brand maintains a reputation for producing durable and well-crafted footwear, often considered a direct alternative to Dr. Martens, particularly for those seeking a British-made product.

Key characteristics of Solovair boots and shoes include:

• Goodyear Welt Construction: This construction method provides durability, water resistance, and allows for resoling, extending the lifespan of the footwear.
• High-Quality Leather: Solovair utilizes various types of leather, including calf leather, for the uppers of their boots and shoes.
• Air-Cushioned Soles: Similar to Dr. Martens, Solovair footwear features air-cushioned soles, providing comfort and shock absorption.
• British Manufacturing: All Solovair footwear is manufactured in the NPS Shoes factory in Wollaston, England.

Solovair continues to offer a range of styles, including classic oxfords, Gibson shoes, and various boot designs, often with a similar aesthetic to the boots they produced under license for Dr. Martens.