From a fledgling company started by two brothers in 1998, V12 Footwear has grown into an industry-leading safety footwear manufacturer. As the company celebrates its 25th anniversary, we look back at some of the key milestones, including award-winning products and brand launches, as well as the innovation that goes into the boots, and a trail-blazing approach to sustainable manufacturing.
2016 – Guaranteed comfort with the V12 last
V12’s footwear is based around its unique last shape and spent over two years developing it by working with the only remaining British lastmakers in the country. That traditional craftmanship was then amalgamated by using over 4,000 global foot scans to develop a last which would accommodate both wider and narrower foot shapes from different areas of the world, ensuring ultimate comfort through universal fit. Not only that, the V12 last is designed to give specialist support and comfort for the specific foot shape of both men and women wearers.
2016 – Tradie favourite ‘MukGuard’ launched
The MukGuard reusable overshoe quickly became a hit with tradespeople, ensuring their customers’ floors stay clean when entering their property from outside. This durable and anti-slip overshoe has helped grow the reputation of tradespeople and businesses across the country and – because it eliminates the need for single-use plastic boot covers – it took home an international sustainability award in 2017.
2021 – Everybody benefits with The BoB Boot
Band of Builders (BoB) is a national charity supporting tradespeople facing adversity from illness and injury, and the organisation has changed many lives by rebuilding and renovating the homes of those in crisis. Determined to show its support, in 2021, V12 launched the exclusive V2150 BoB safety boot. For every pair sold, the safety footwear specialist donates £5 to the Band of Builders charity to support the ongoing mission to help those in construction and their families in their hour of need.
2021 – Tech meets tradition
V12 has always developed its safety boots with cutting-edge technology and by working with industry leaders. When developing its metatarsal protection boot, ‘Invincible,’ for example, the company patented the ExoGuard, a met protection system over 200 times stronger than steel which features the same material employed in stealth aircraft and radar.
To deliver the very best waterproof safety boot solution for its Lynx range, the V-Dri high-performance waterproof membrane was developed. It’s made with inside-boot climate control and microscopic cooling holes, so water stays out, but the wearers’ feet get top-level breathability in hot conditions. As well as that, the hi-leg boot V1750 Defender STS is designed with advanced ankle cushioning that provides shock-absorption against high impact.
2022 – Sustainable safety
In 2022 V12 Footwear became the first UK safety footwear brand to develop a carbon neutral boot with The Lynx, and earlier this year – after a two-year long company-wide sustainability drive – the business was certified ZeroCarbon by the Sustainable Future Group.
Proof of protection
Evidence of success can be seen everywhere, from the incredibly low returns rate, the fact V12 Footwear is trusted by industry leaders to supply footwear, including BAM Nuttall and Mace, and that last year saw the company enjoy its most successful year to date. The boots’ quality can also be seen in an ever-growing trophy cabinet. The manufacturer has bagged a huge range of accolades for its safety footwear, including multiple PCIAW awards for innovation, as well as several awards for the boots supplied to the energy sector.
What’s next for V12?
The name V12 was inspired by the V12 engine, famed for its power, strength and high-performance as well as its instantly recognisable appearance – and with its full-strength, industry-leading protection and striking look, V12 Footwear will continue to live up to the name.
With its relentless focus on high-performing protection for customers, no-compromise attitude to long-lasting comfort and drive for sustainable manufacturing, it’s fair to say that the next quarter of a century will be a safe, green and very bright one for both existing and new V12 wearers.
To find out more about the V12 range and to stay up to date with the 25-year anniversary celebrations, visit V12 Footwear | Safety Footwear, Safety Boots and Safety Shoes.
