A Brief History of Fila: From Italian Roots to Global Sportswear
Fila was founded in 1911 in Biella, Italy, by the Fila brothers. Initially a textile company, Fila transitioned into sportswear in the 1970s, gaining global fame for its sleek and stylish tennis apparel. The brand’s footwear division began rising in popularity in the 1990s and saw a global resurgence with the return of chunky retro sneakers in recent years.
Country of Origin: Italy (now owned by Fila Korea)
Current Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea
Known For: Retro sneaker designs, chunky sole silhouettes, sporty streetwear, and affordability.
Fila shoes are increasingly popular in the UAE, especially among Gen Z and Millennial sneaker fans who embrace nostalgic fashion with a modern twist. Their balance of comfort, street style, and reasonable pricing make them ideal for urban lifestyles in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Top Fila Shoe Models Trending in the UAE
1. Fila Disruptor II
The iconic chunky sneaker with a bold design and thick sole. Popular for both men and women, this shoe is a staple in UAE’s casual streetwear fashion scene.
2. Fila Ray Tracer
A stylish blend of sports and fashion, great for everyday wear. Lightweight and supportive—well-suited for long mall walks or university use.
3. Fila Renno
Modern silhouette with a mix of suede and mesh. Ideal for fashion-forward youth in the UAE seeking comfort with retro flair.
4. Fila Axilus 2 Energized
A performance tennis shoe favored by athletes for its grip, breathability, and stability—useful for UAE’s rising padel and tennis culture.
5. Fila Mindblower
A bold visual identity with an oversized logo—perfect for sneaker collectors and lovers of retro aesthetics.
Top 5 Expert Reviews of Fila Shoes
- Sneaker Freaker – Fila Disruptor II Review
“The Disruptor II is unapologetically chunky, with 90s vibes that dominate. Surprisingly comfortable, with a bold visual punch.”
Source: SneakerFreaker.com
- Highsnobiety – Fila Ray Tracer Review
“Fila strikes the balance between dad-shoe trend and urban wearability. The Ray Tracer is perfect for style-savvy buyers on a budget.”
Source: Highsnobiety.com
- WearTesters – Fila Axilus 2 Review
“Excellent traction and durability. A serious contender in tennis performance shoes, built for both indoor and outdoor courts.”
Source: WearTesters.com
- GQ Middle East – Fila Disruptor Editorial
“Disruptor II leads the chunky trend in the Gulf. UAE sneaker culture fully embraces its throwback vibe.”
Source: GQMiddleEast.com
- Footwear News – Fila Global Revival
“Fila’s resurgence is no accident. Smart collaborations and retro styling have cemented their place in global streetwear.”
Source: FootwearNews.com
FAQs – Fila Shoes in UAE
Q1: Where can I buy authentic Fila shoes in UAE?
Original Fila shoes are available at Sun & Sand Sports, Namshi, Amazon.ae, Brands For Less, and official Fila stores in malls like Dubai Mall and Yas Mall.
Q2: Are Fila Disruptor shoes comfortable for everyday use?
Yes. The Disruptor II offers thick cushioning and arch support, making it suitable for walking, commuting, and daily wear.
Q3: Do Fila shoes run true to size in UAE fittings?
Most Fila models fit true to size, but the Disruptor and Ray Tracer may feel snug due to their padded collars. Trying them in-store is ideal.
Q4: Are Fila shoes suitable for UAE weather?
Yes. Most models use breathable mesh or leather uppers, making them suitable for hot and dry climates common across the UAE.
Q5: Which Fila shoes are best for sports or gym use?
Fila Axilus 2 Energized for court sports and Fila Memory Workshift or Renno for gym workouts or fitness routines.
Our Suggestions
Fila’s rise in the UAE reflects the region’s blend of global fashion trends and local lifestyle needs. Whether you’re hitting the gym, walking in a mall, or heading to a café in City Walk Dubai, Fila offers comfort, style, and bold personality in every step.