Intro

Fila is back again updating their best-selling Axilus 2.0 Energized Tennis Shoe with a few minor tweaks to fit the modern tennis game. This high-performance shoe keeps its lightweight feel, responsive midsole and durable outsole that many pros loved. The updated model gets an improved rubber outsole as well as cushioning, a made-for-you fit and an arch-boosting sockliner. As a true fan of the first version, I was excited to see how Fila improved this second model.

Cushioning & Stability

I truly love the comfort and stability of this shoe. It’s an easy shoe to just wear around the house and then go to the tennis court to play. Since the first version did such a good job of this before, I was happy to see that Fila didn’t change the cushioning or stability much. The overall soft breathable mesh provides a lightweight feel that’s comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The Energized Rubber midsole cushioning still provides that same great stability and energy return for your feet without the heavy feel. The molded heel cup and molded sockliner work very well together providing you with a secure, comfortable fitting.

Fit & Breathability

When I first put on this shoe, I noticed right away that the fit was slightly different than the previous version. The first version has more of a wide toe box and longer overall length. The Axilus 2 seemed to have a shorter length, since my toes were hitting the very end of the toe box, and a slightly narrow width. This subtle change didn’t bother me much because once I started moving around the shoe seemed to go back to the normal fit. I did feel like I could tie it closer to my ankle and keep the tongue from moving around which I truly enjoyed. In terms of breathability, I do feel it’s slightly improved over the previous version. There isn’t a lot of change in the upper design, but the breathable mesh quarter seems to do a better job this time around in giving my feet plenty of airflow. I would still recommend players wearing high-performance socks especially if you’re a frequent sweater like myself.

Movement & Responsiveness

Similar to the first version, movement and responsiveness aren’t really changed thanks to the Energized Rubber cushioning. The lightweight feel of the shoe keeps it practical for long 3 set matches, and gives me continued energy return to keep my feet feeling fast. Whether I was moving side to side or front to back my feet always felt ready, and I could easily transition to my next shot. I never felt wrong footed on defense because I could bounce back into position to hit my next shot.

Durability

Durability levels with this shoe continue to be great, and the 6-month outsole warranty is always a nice surprise. For as lightweight as this shoe feels, I’m still surprised Fila is putting an outsole warranty on it. Over time, the outsole does wear down, but it takes several hours and months of playing before you notice much difference in traction. Players that drag their feet when they serve or hit groundstrokes may see the anti-slip nylon getting scuffed, but don’t worry, these shoes will not break.

Overall

Overall, the Fila Men's Axilus 2 Energized tennis shoe is still one of the best durability shoes on the market. The slight change in fitting may suit a variety of players better compared to the wider first version. If you love a durable shoe that has plenty of comfort and support but won’t weigh you down, then you’ll love the updated Axilus 2 Energized tennis shoe.

About the Reviewer: Chris Virk-Brown currently works at Tennis Express on the Content Marketing team. He previously played at Neumann University and coached at the collegiate level for 3 years. He is an active USTA League and Tournament player.