In the early '80s, Bjorn Borg was a tennis champion and hero to yuppies worldwide. He had it all: a record-breaking tennis career, sun-kissed tan, feathered golden locks, stripped sweatband set, and that velour Fila track suit. A plush navy pile and white knit collar, cuffs and waistband accented in red was Fila's signature design and a logo-wear staple for country club sport enthusiasts.
The Italian textile house for fine woven fabrics since 1911, Fila fashioned the first sportswear couture in 1973. For more than 33 years, it has outfitted champions with its state-of-the-art weaves—and its celebrity athlete roster is just as impressive. But to be a contender in the sportswear market today, the look must be both functional and fashionable.
Newly focused on the amateur athlete engaged in individual sports, fitness training and an active lifestyle, Fila has updated its line to include yoga wear, marathon gear and golfing separates. Filativa, the newest line of trendy and comfortable clothing and shoes for men and women, is fun, but in true Fila fashion, well-made and practical, too. Coordinating track suits, tops, tees and fashion sneakers are equally suited for the gym or that jaunt to Cold Stone that reminds you why you go to the gym.
With a history of fabrics and footwear specifically designed to protect and aid during competition, Fila still is interested in serious sport, ensuring a helpful and knowledgeable staff that will outfit you for a variety of activities. Top of the list: ultralight marathon sneakers that won't weigh you down in that final stretch, parkas with zip-out liners to keep you warm and dry in any environment, and super-skimpy tennis shorts with a built-in ball pocket so you can ace them while they're staring at your tush.
Fila's newest boutique, just opened in the Fashion Show Mall, is what you'd expect from a brand that relies on craftsmanship to maintain its reputation and refuses to make billboards of their customers. No gigantic logos, no blaring hip-hop music, no pushy sales people trying to convince you that florescent yellow is your color. Just a touch of futuristic design by Giorgio Borruso, a flash of Borg grass green velour and the fleeting notion that you could go pro, with the proper ankle support.
Fila, in the Fashion Show Mall, Suite 220, 3200 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 866-758-3452.
www.fila.com.
Jennifer Henry's got the goods on what to get & where. E-mail her at
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