Where our story begins
In 1926, Philipp M. Winter founded the “Optische Industrie Anstalt” in Fürth/Poppenreuth, hand crafting protective eyewear in a modest workshop.
This pioneering spirit - to protect people through better products - anchors who we are a century later.
A timeline of innovation and growth
1926: The beginnings
- 1926: Company founded by Philipp M. Winter in Fürth/Poppenreuth, focusing on protective eyewear.
- 1936: uvex protective goggles are worn at the 1936 Olympic Games, elevating performance credibility and brand visibility.
1956: The uvex brand is born
- 1956: The concise, future ready name uvex becomes the signature on all sports and leisure eyewear.
What’s in a name?
The brand name uvex was created by Rainer Winter. It stands for UltraViolet EXcluded, a commitment to lenses that protect eyes from harmful radiation - and a hallmark of our eyewear identity ever since.
1960s–1980s: Broadening horizons
- 1967: Launch of Filtral, offering fashionable sunglasses for retailers — an early sign of the group’s multi brand strategy.
- 1980: ALPINA (today part of the uvex sports group) is founded in Derching, expanding our sports expertise.
- 1980s: The third generation joins: Gabriele Grau (1981) and Michael Winter (1987), deepening the family leadership that continues to shape the company.
1990s–2010s: From Fürth to the world
- Across these decades, uvex grows into a globally active group encompassing the uvex safety group (uvex safety, laservision, Heckel, HexArmor), the uvex sports group (uvex sports, ALPINA), the Filtral group (Filtral, Primetta) and Protecting People GmbH.
- Today the uvex group includes 49 subsidiaries in 22 countries.
“Made in uvex” quality, inside and out
- Throughout our history, from concept to production, uvex has maintained full control over key steps in the design and manufacturing process. This enables us to test beyond standard requirements, refine materials and components, and ensure long term performance across every product we make. It’s how we uphold the promise of “Quality made in uvex” and deliver protection our customers can trust.
2010s–Today: Technology that protects
- UV400 lens technology in uvex polycarbonate safety eyewear filters 100% of UVA/UVB radiation up to 400 nm, aligning with WHO recommendations and going beyond EN 166/170 requirements — because eyes deserve complete protection.
protecting people — Our guiding principle
Whether at work, on the slopes or on the road, uvex creates high quality, innovative products that help people perform safely and confidently — a mission encapsulated in two words: protecting people.
Innovation highlights
Precision‑engineered eye protection
From advanced UV400 lens protection to high performance coating technologies engineered for clarity and durability, uvex eyewear innovations are designed to enhance visibility and safeguard eyes in even the most demanding environments. Our focus on optical precision ensures that wearers benefit from exceptional visual comfort and uncompromising protection.
Breakthroughs in hand protection
uvex’s approach to glove design prioritises dexterity, grip and wearer comfort. By combining intelligent material selection with purpose built coating technologies, our safety gloves support precision handling while helping to protect against mechanical and environmental risks. Each glove is crafted with ergonomic performance in mind, ensuring users can work confidently and comfortably across a wide range of applications
Footwear engineered for performance
uvex safety footwear brings together lightweight construction, supportive ergonomics and carefully selected materials to deliver comfort and protection throughout the working day. Designed around the needs of modern workplaces, our footwear focuses on fit, durability and wearer wellbeing — helping reduce fatigue while providing dependable protection.
Helmet technology designed for safety
Every uvex helmet is developed with wearer protection and comfort at its core. By focusing on innovative shell designs, advanced material selection and adjustable fit systems, our head protection solutions help deliver stability, ventilation and all day comfort, supporting users in environments where safety is critical.
Find out more about other brands in the uvex group
HexArmor safety gloves
HexArmor® has been a glove safety leader in North America for over 15 years, redefining the hand safety market. Their range of high-performance products has helped to eliminate millions of hand injuries worldwide.
Heckel specialist footwear
Specialists in the processing of rubber for new sole technologies with state-of-the-art manufacturing processes. Heckel safety shoes are non-slip, withstand extreme conditions and have a strong focus on style.
uvex sports
Reliable partner for top athletes and enthusiastic recreational athletes who want their performance to reach the podium. Helmets, glasses and gloves offer indispensable protection in extreme situations and casual comfort for everyday challenges.