All You Should Know About Fila Sneakers

Unless you have been living under a rock most of your life,  you know the Fila name. Love them or hate them, you have to admit the style offers some pizazz. Fila sneakers are known for being a cult classic of the 90s. They are also known for facing a major downfall in the late 90s and early 2000s. But, the brand (including accessories) is working its way back to the top of what’s trending. Fila sneakers are a major part of the brand's success. They are also a great way for people to give a nod to the Y2K styles. Here’s everything you need to know about Fila and Fila sneakers. 

Fila: The Brand

Fila has been around for over a hundred years. The Fila brothers founded the company in 1911 in the Italian alps. They hoped to create superior knitwear for those around them. The brand was successful in creating only a handful of high-quality items per season. It wasn’t until the early 20s that they decided to add to their successful brand by offering sportswear. The brothers partnered with Maglificio Biellese in 1923. This was a major change as they were now producing many more items for different uses. The brand was moderately successful throughout the coming but didn’t really take off. However, Fila found a niche within the tennis community. Tennis is known for its very specific and “clean cut” dress code. These requirements meshed well with the Fila style and products. In the 80s and 90s, the brand really started to take off. Tennis player Bjorn Borg helped to increase its popularity after winning quite a few matches donning the Fila brand. In 1994, Fila sneakers really began to become a top trending item. In fact, Shelf life says, “Fila is the only brand that can boast of being rocked by different generations of tennis greats such as Bjorn Borg, Boris Becker, Jennifer Capriati, and Monica Seles”. Additionally, the brand moved into other sports. In the Michael Jordan era of sneakers, other basketball players saw an opportunity to rep brands. When Grant Hill was signed by the Pistons, he saw a chance to create a partnership with Fila. He would wear several different styles of Fila sneakers and create his own. But, much like Nike, the brand moved into other realms as well – particularly hip-hop and the fashion culture. 

fila recollector shoe

Photo source: Amazon.com

Fila Sneakers – The Top Trend of the 90s

Everyone was crazy for athletic styles in the 90s. Pop stars like Britney Spears, The Spice Girls, and N’Sync often wore athletic shoes, sweatsuits, and other athletic styles. Even top-name rappers such as LL Cool J and Tupac sported Fila sneakers. The brand was so popular there was even a song called “Put Your Fila’s On” by Schoolly D. In the 90s, you couldn’t walk through any mall without being drawn into the Foot Locker to try on a pair. Everywhere you looked, Fila was there. 

Unfortunately, the brand couldn’t keep up with the ever-changing trends. Courier states, “Between 1997 and 2007, sales fell by nearly 91%”. Fila was facing hard times after such great growth and brand visibility. People loved to hate Fila and were ready for the next big thing. But, styles usually come back around. When Millenials were ready to take on the Y2K trends, Fila was ready. 

Fila Sneakers – The Comeback

Thankfully, Millennials found a love for some major 90’s trends. Although Fila was originally known for their impact and superiority in the Tennis world, they were also associated with many trends in the 90s. The Fila name was a must-have to complete any true 90s look. When Y2K trends came back, so did Fila. From 2016 to 2018, Fila sales increased 205%. The brand would not make the same mistakes as they did in their previous trending time. Fila has created many new collaborations. They are expected to release a lifestyle hotel brand with Hyatt and have their own hotel in 2024. Fila has also partnered with some high-end brands including Fendi, Barneys, and Italian powerhouse Slam Jam.  Even major stars were ready to bring back the Fila brand. Joseph Maveriks writes, “Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, and Emily Ratajkowski have all been spotted wearing Fila, and these are influential trendsetters. Fila is now walking the runways of major fashion events too. They made a sensation at the 2019 Milan Fashion Week”. Fila is ready to take on a new generation and this time stay. Their sneakers would make a great addition to your shoe wardrobe. 

Top Fila Sneakers Options

Fila sneakers are a great come-back shoe option with great retro vibes. Here are some great options to join in on the style. 

Fila Women's Memory Workshift

The Women’s Memory Workshift Fila Sneakers are a great way to keep a trending vibe even at work. These shoes are 100% leather and synthetic with a rubber sole. The leather and synthetic mixture is extremely durable and is a great option regardless of your occupation. The shaft is about 3” from the arch for effective support. They also offer superior traction with a rubber slip-resistant sole. These Fila sneakers also have a memory foam sock liner and midsole for extra comfort. If you work long shifts and are constantly on your feet, these Fila sneakers would be perfect! The shoes also feature perforations throughout the shoe for breathability. This will help your foot to stay dry and well ventilated. These Fila sneakers were created to help you feel comfortable without affecting your performance or protection. This pair of shoes is ideal for most occupations including healthcare, restaurants, construction, or industrial. The Fila sneakers definitely live up to the Fila phrase, “We create what is desired, not what is necessary. Not just enough, but more than what you need. This is Fila”. This sneaker option is available in both all white and all black. No matter what uniform you need to match, either option will work well. The Women’s Memory Workshift Fila Sneakers is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars. They are offered at a price range of $36 to $89. These Fila Sneakers are a great selection for your work wear needs. 

Women's Memory Workshift Training Shoe
$48.45

by Fila 

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02/18/2024 12:08 pm GMT

Fila Women's Sneaker

Another great option is this Women’s Fila Sneaker. The silhouette is great for those who love the chunky sole look. They are made of leather and have a synthetic sole. The shoes have a lace-up front with a pull tab on the tongue and heel. They feature the classic “F” logo on the tongue, the back of the sneaker, and the side as well. This Fila Sneaker offers some fun colors with an extra bit of pizazz. Some color options have a cute ribbon lace rather than the traditional white laces. Color options include Black Iridescent, Gold with Purple Ribbon Laces, Light Iridescent, Silver with Royal Blue Ribbon Laces, White, Goldfinch, Black, and Pink. These sneakers would look great with denim, denim shorts, and t-shirt dresses. For a nod to retro style, this Fila sneakers option is a great choice. These shoes are rated 4.4 out of 5-stars by almost 6,000 reviewers. They are offered at a price range of $54 to $104 on Amazon. 

Fila Women's Disruptor

If you really love the retro vibe, check out the Women’s Disruptor Fila Sneakers. The Disruptor was a beloved shoe for every “It Girl” in the 90s. As the 90s trends slowly started to come back into popularity, Disruptor’s weren’t too far behind. Dazed Fashion blog explains, “Today, there are well over half a million posts on Instagram under the hashtags #filadisruptor and #filadisruptor2. And although the shoes are gender neutral, a look through the hashtags shows they’re mostly popular among women”. The Disruptor Fila Sneakers are a fashionable way to hop on the Fila trend. This shoe isn’t only popular in the United States. It turns out, that from 2017 to 2018 there was a 583% increase in searches for the Disruptor Fila Sneakers in the UK. No matter where you are, this sneaker is well-loved by many. The Fila Disruptor ii sneakers are 100% leather, have a rubber sole, and have a lightweight EVA midsole. Although they aren’t recommended as a running shoe, they work great to make a fashion statement. The shoes also feature FILA logos on the upper and sole of the shoes. They have a lace-up front and are offered in many colors and patterns. Amazon offers the Disruptor Fila Sneakers in Red, White, Black/Multi/White, Pink, Black/White/Red, Scuba Blue, and White/White. The White and Red options also feature a leopard trim for an added pop of color. The leopard print accents are a fun way to add interest to your Fila sneakers. These shoes are rated 4.5 out of 5-stars. They are offered at a price range of $36 to $129. 

Women’s Disruptor Ii Leopard Sneaker
$90.00

by Fila 

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02/18/2024 11:51 am GMT

Fila Women's Panache Sneaker

The Women’s Panache Fila Sneakers are a more classically styled sneaker. They have a platform sole and are low profile. The shoes are synthetic and offer a padded tongue and collar. They also have metallic accents on the tongue and back counter. The shoes are lightweight and have an EVA midsole. The lace-up design will also help to keep your foot secure regardless of your activities. The Women’s Panache Fila Sneakers are offered in some great color choices as well. Amazon has them in Fila red, Leopard, White/Safety Yellow, White/Chalk Pink, White/Metallic Silver, White/Pink Glow, and White/Navy/Red.  These shoes are rated 4.5 out of 5-stars. They are offered at a price range of $31 to $90. The Panache Fila sneakers would make a great addition to any well-styled shoe collection. 

Fila Evergrand TR 21.5

Are you more of a sporty girl? If you love to hike and explore the great outdoors the Evergrand TR Fila Sneakers are for you. These sneakers offer an Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole for extreme durability. These shoes are made to walk a ton of miles without affecting your feet. They have a textile and synthetic mesh upper and a breathable textile lining. The shoes also have a round-toe silhouette with lace-up closure. The build of this shoe will give you the essential elements you need for a quality pair of shoes no matter the occasion. The Fila logo is featured on the quarter panel, interior, and tongue. While these aren’t the most fashionable pair of shoes, they are certainly built for effectiveness. The Evergrand TR Fila Sneakers are offered at a budget-friendly price range of $24 to $42. They are rated 4.2 out of 5-stars. These Fila Sneakers are perfect for the outdoorsy girl looking to rep the Fila brand. 

Top Fila Accessories

If Fila sneakers aren’t enough for you, you’re in luck! Fila has collaborated with some amazing brands and you can add these accessories to your wardrobe with ease. 

Reversible Bucket Hat

One trend that’s almost as popular as Fila sneakers are the bucket hat. So of course Fila brought this back too with this Reversible Bucket Hat. The bucket hat features an embroidered logo. It also has a great reverse side with an all-over FILA logo design. The accessory option is 100% twill and is eligible for free shipping. The Reversible Bucket Hat comes in black, white, tan, navy, and red. The bucket hat would look great paired with a t-shirt dress, flannel, and some Fila sneakers. This great accessory is available for $35. 

Reversible Bucket Hat

Photo source: fila.com

Fanny Pack

The 2000s didn’t leave behind the fanny pack either. The Fila Henry Fanny pack is actually a great accessory for your on-the-go needs. This fanny pack is 100% polyester and has a printed FILA linear logo. It has a top-zip main compartment with plenty of room for your phone, touch-up makeup, lipstick, and any other necessities. It also has an adjustable strap with buckle closure which is perfect for wearing the fanny pack as a “shoulder belt bag” style if desired. This accessory is a budget-friendly $25. It would look great with a pair of Fila sneakers and some denim shorts. Add an oversized sweatshirt and you are ready for a day of adventure with the full use of your hands. 

Fanny Pack

Photo source: fila.com

Fendi x Fila Mania Logo Tess Shopper 

If you are a luxury kind of girl, you are well aware of the Fendi X Fila collaboration. The upscale brand partnered with Fila to create some pretty amazing gear. A handbag is easily at the top of the accessory list as it looks fashionable and is equally as functional. Fendi handbags also have the perks of being designed by the legendary Karl Lagerfield. There is nothing like pairing a great pair of shoes with the perfect handbag. You can get this combo look with the Fendi x Fila Mania Logo Tess Shopper and your favorite Fila sneakers. This bag features the signature “FF” logo print on leather, crafted in Italy. The bag also has top handles in the “shopper” style. The front of the bag also features the Fila-inspired designer logo and gold-tone hardware. This bag is large enough to hold all of your valuables but isn’t overpowering or too heavy. The Fendi x Fila collaboration is certainly one for the books. The two pair so well together and created clothing, shoes, and accessories that became a sensation. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on the Fendi x Fila Mania Logo Tess Shopper, pair the handbag with a simple pair of Fila sneakers. These two pieces will pair well with almost any outfit for a top-trending stylish look. 

Photo source: modesens.com

Final Thoughts

Although it may have seemed like Fila was gone for good, the opposite couldn’t have been more true. Fila has made a comeback in a great way. This time around, they are finding ways to stay relevant and on top of the trends. While they may have gotten their initial comeback from classic 90s styles such as the Disruptor Fila sneakers, they have continued to grow with what’s popular. When brands create collaborations with celebrities, influencers, athletes, musicians, or other brands it really does seem like a win-win. Lovers of the brand and the other party are intrigued by the product which gives both an opportunity to grow. Fila seems to have figured this out at the right time. Whether you are looking to get in on the Y2K styles or are ready to give your old favorite brand a second shot, you are unlikely to be disappointed. Fila sneakers are a great way to start incorporating the style back into your everyday wear. If you loved the chunky sneaker that is the Fila Disruptor ii or if you prefer a more classic pair, there is definitely a great option to meet your needs. You can also utilize the comfortable thick soles Fila sneakers are known for to provide lasting all-day comfort at work. The brand also offers a wide variety of colors, prints, and silhouettes. Regardless of your needs, Fila Sneakers are a solid option. For your next pair of shoes, look no further than a pair of Fila Sneakers.

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