Solovair
In Wollaston, Northamptonshire, five men formed a co-operative, the Northamptonshire Productive Society (NPS), known locally as 'the Duffers'. Working from a dove house on Thrift Street, they got through their first year on a government order for army boots. In 1899 NPS moved to a purpose-built factory on South Street, which it still occupies. Solovair says it welted sample boots with air-cushioned soles for R. Griggs in 1959, then spent 35 years making 'Dr Martens by Solovair' under licence. NPS registered the Solovair name itself in 1994. After the business came close to collapse around 2000, its workers voted in 2006 to let Ivor Tilley, a Wollaston resident, buy it.
Boots
Shown here are Solovair's boots, handcrafted in Wollaston. Some of its sneakers aren't made in England, so they're left out.
Only the boots and Classic collection shoes listed here have been checked as made in Britain. Solovair says its sneakers are an exception.
Under £200
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Under £200
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Under £200
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Shown here are shoes from Solovair's Classic collection, each Goodyear-welted and listed by Solovair as handmade in England. Its sneakers belong to a separate collection and aren't included.
Only the boots and Classic collection shoes listed here have been checked as made in Britain. Solovair says its sneakers are an exception.
£150–£249
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£150–£249
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£150–£249
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