A bi-component continuous filament has a sheath-core arrangement including a first polymer component forming a sheath and including a polyamide, a polyolefin, or a polyester; a second polymer component forming a core and including a polyamide, a polyolefin, or a polyester; and a binding agent adhering the first polymer component to the second polymer component along a length of the filament such that the filament has a generally uniform cross-sectional shape along the length. The binding agent preferably includes a polyolefin modified by an acid anhydride. Articles made from such bi-component continuous filaments include, for example, bulk continuous filament (BCF) fibers and floor coverings, such as mats, rugs, and carpets.