With the recent resurgence of Fila shoes, especially their iconic chunky sneakers, many people are wondering if Fila shoes are suitable for running. While Fila may be better known historically for their fashion-forward shoes, they do offer some decent options for runners. In this article, we’ll take a close look at what makes a good running shoe and see how some of Fila’s most popular models stack up.
What Makes a Good Running Shoe?
When choosing a running shoe, there are a few key features to look for:
Cushioning – Properly cushioned shoes absorb impact and reduce strain on your joints and muscles. Look for ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or similar midsole foams.
Stability – Stable shoes provide support and help control overpronation, which is important for injury prevention. Features like medial posts, torque stability units, and wide bases aid stability.
Breathability – Breathable mesh uppers allow airflow to your feet, keeping them cool and comfortable mile after mile. This helps prevent hot spots and blisters.
Traction – Durable rubber outsoles with lugs or grooves provide necessary grip on different surfaces so you don’t slip while running.
Weight – Greater weight typically means less efficiency while running, so lighter shoes are generally better for performance purposes.
Durability – The outsole rubber as well as overlays and components like eyelets should withstand considerable mileage without breaking down.
Fit – Every runner’s foot is slightly different, so finding the right shoe volume, toe box width, arch type and snugness makes all the difference in comfort.
Most running shoe brands will also cite proprietary technologies in their shoes like injected EVA foams, anatomical plates and embedded sensors. While these can offer advantages, focusing more on the basics above is key when prioritizing function over features.
Key Features of Popular Fila Running Shoes
So given the criteria that make for effective running shoes, how do some of Fila’s most sought-after models stack up? Here’s a comparison of three of their top styles:
Fila Disruptor II
- Thick midsole for cushioning
- Classic chunky design not ideal for fast speeds
- Low stability with narrow base
- Breathable panels on upper
- Deep flex grooves provide some traction
- Heavy at over 3 lbs per shoe
- Durability only moderate for high mileage
Fila Axilus 2 Energized
- Lightweight Energized foam midsole absorbs shock
- TPU heel clip adds stability
- Mesh upper improves ventilation
- Sticky rubber outsole for grip
- Distinctive welded overlays durable
- Under 12 oz makes it lighter than most Filas
Fila Weathertech II High
- Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam midsole
- Shaft height provides ankle support
- Waterproof leather and mesh upper construction
- High traction rubber sole with lugs
- Better structure than low cuts
- Bulky and heavy compared to running shoes
As you can see, while models like the Axilus 2 Energized have attributes that make them serviceable for running, bulkier fashion-oriented styles really aren’t ideal for logging miles. Although cushy and comfortable for casual wear, shoes like the iconic Disruptor II don’t have the combination of lightness, stability and security needed for extensive running. And high tops like the weather-resistant Weathertech II really shine more for everyday wear than athletic usage.
While offerings from brands like Nike, Saucony, Asics and Brooks should probably still be your first choice, the Axilus and a few comparable Fila styles could work for short, easy runs. But they likely won’t provide the foot protection, responsiveness and security needed for frequent high mileage, intense training runs and races.
Getting Properly Fitted
Determine your foot type, gait and the way you strike the ground when you run. Then try on athletic styles from Fila and other brands that align with your needs. The right match of shoe structure, cushioning and stability to your physiology and movements makes all the difference in comfort and injury avoidance.
Most running specialty stores can watch you walk and run then bring out appropriate options for you to test. Getting properly fitted by experts may even make some Fila models viable primary running shoes depending on your individual mechanics.
Alternating Different Shoes
Rotating different models of shoes is smart for all runners in order to give certain muscle groups and joints a break. Alternating between traditional running shoes and more fashionable sneakers like Fila’s can provide helpful variety. Just listen to signals from your feet and legs, and avoid styles that leave you sore after just short distances.
Consider Filas for Cross Training
While hardcore runners will still likely gravitate to serious athletic brands designed expressly for pounding the roads and trails, Fila shoes make terrific cross trainers.
On days you strength train, spin, play basketball or participate in almost any other sport except straight-up running, models like the Disruptor, Mindblower and others shine while holding up well. The extra cushioning and flair Fila shoes boast make them wonderful for getting fit while expressing personal style at the same time.
Shoe Shape Matters
Don’t just pay attention to cushioning, stability and weight. Subtleties like toe box shape, curved last shapes mimicking natural feet, and snug midfoot wraps also influence comfort and performance.
While not a perfect science, brands marketing shoes expressly for athletic usage usually fine tune these details better than fashion brands. The classic Fila silhouette works well for casual activities but likely won’t feel dialed enough for logging serious mileage.
In Conclusion
So are Fila shoes good for running? Certain styles like the Axilus 2 Energized can work for easy shorter runs. But hardcore runners still likely need athletic footwear brands specializing expressly in the biomechanical needs marathoners require. Fila shoes really shine more as everyday fashion sneakers and cross trainers supporting nearly any other physical activity beyond pure running.
If you love Fila’s iconic chunky silhouette and want to incorporate them into a fitness regimen, using them for strength training, spin class, cross training and other non-running sports makes perfect sense.
Then lace up proper performance road running shoes from brands emphasizing technical features when it comes time for racking up miles. That savvy approach helps keep you injury-free while still showing off stylish Fila kicks everywhere else!
Similar FAQs:
Are classic Fila Disruptors good for running?
Not really. While the thick comfortable midsole provides cushy support, the heavy, chunky Disruptor isn’t ideal for serious running. Lack of stability elements, rigidity limiting natural foot motion, minimal breathability and extra weight hamper this iconic fashion sneaker for athletic usage beyond casual wear.
How do Fila shoes fit and size?
Fila shoes are well known to fit big and wide. Most wearers need to size down significantly, sometimes even a full size or more. Trying them on in person is best to dial-in your proper Fila shoe size. Also be prepared for a roomy toe box and loose heel since their classic silhouettes cater more toward casual fashion than performance lockdown.
Where are Fila shoes manufactured?
Fila contracts with factories all over the world for shoe production just like most brands. Expect Made in China, Vietnam or Indonesia labels inside most Fila shoes sold today. Quality and precision vary between factories just like any footwear producer working across global supply chains.
How long do Fila shoes last?
With moderate wear, you can expect around a year’s useful life from most Fila sneakers before components like midsole cushioning compress excessively. More athletic-oriented styles with greater stability elements and durable materials can potentially last much longer with greater mileage.
Factor around 300-500 miles for proper running shoes. And fashion silhouettes typically last for approximately a year’s worth of equivalent casual wear.