From the home of British shoe making, Northamptonshire, Solovair has its roots firmly in British made, high-quality footwear. Originating from the village of Wollaston, the company began in the late 19th century as a co-op of shoemakers, called the Northamptonshire Productive Society (NPS). In the 20th century, they made many of their shoes under license, such as for Dr. Martens. However, since the 1980s they have made shoes under their own brand name, Solovair (Sole-of-air), and have flourished ever since.