Fila was founded in 1926, as an Italian knitwear manufacturer. By 1973, the company had become known as Fila sportswear. The license for Fila footwear allowed them to be manufactured and distributed in the US from 1981 through 1990. That license was repurchased by Fila in 1991 and the signing of several high profile athletes has allowed them the clout to attract more attention to their product. Fila athletes German Silva and Moses Tanui are responsible for three major victories at the Boston and New York marathons. The Fila Racer (pictured) is Silva’s preferred racer, light, bright, and right (though also left)