Everlast kicking shields

The Everlast Titan is a robust, high-quality kicking shield specially designed for martial arts and self-defense systems. It is suitable for all levels—from beginners just starting out to experienced fighters looking to perfect their technique. It is an ideal choice for both personal training and group classes.

The kicking shield is made of strong synthetic leather—a robust and durable material that withstands intensive use. Synthetic leather is easier to maintain than genuine leather and retains its shape and firmness even with daily use in a busy gym.

Yes. The Everlast Titan is ideal for group classes and personal training. Trainers can hold the pad while students practise their technique, or use it in circuit training. The ergonomic grip and large striking surface make it comfortable for the trainer during extended use.

Both are perfectly suitable for any training session, so let’s establish that first.

Nevertheless, there are differences and situations in which you would prefer a hard or soft kicking shield.

Soft kicking shields are generally more suitable for beginners than hard kicking shields. Beginners are not yet accustomed to hitting objects or other people with body parts such as their shins and feet. They are simply not as hardened or conditioned yet. Soft shields hurt the person performing the technique less.

However, even beginners may experience drawbacks when using (too) soft kicking shields. Take a front kick with the toes pulled back, for example. If the shield is too soft, your toes can get caught in it, which may still lead to (unnecessary) injuries.

Another disadvantage of soft kicking shields is that you may simply kick through them, unnecessarily hurting the person holding the shield.

Hard kicking shields are especially suitable if you already have a good command of the techniques, allowing you to perform them at (almost) full power without causing your partner too much harm. Hard kicking shields can generally absorb more impact. This can make a huge difference, especially with real “power kicks” such as a back kick.

However, if you kick a hard kicking shield incorrectly—for example, during a roundhouse kick when your instep or foot is not positioned properly—you will also notice this from the pain you experience.

Soft kicking shields:

• good for beginners
• better for getting used to it
• be careful not to kick through them

Hard kicking shields:

• good for advanced practitioners
• can be kicked at full power
• less forgiving of incorrect technique

Punching mitts, also known as focus pads called compact pads that are held by a trainer during a training session. The terms punching mitts and focus pads are used interchangeably. However, in our view, there are subtle differences between them, which is why our website distinguishes between them. Punching mitts are primarily intended for punches and punching techniques.

Thai pads, also known as kickpads or pao, are larger pads held by a trainer for practising both punches and kicks.

Punching shields are usually large, round cushions that the trainer or partner holds in front of the body. They are particularly suitable for various punching techniques, including hooks, liver shots and uppercuts.

Kicking shields are the really large cushions used for punches and kicks. They are ideal for beginners and children who, frankly, are not yet very accurate. They are also highly suitable for advanced practitioners, as these shields allow them to practise their technique with full force .

Some kicking shields are slightly curved, unlike the usually straight shape. The idea behind this is to better imitate the natural shape of the body and the way kicks and punches are absorbed.

Some trainers believe this makes training more comfortable and also more effective. 

Reasons for the slight curve in kicking shields:

• Better absorption of force: the curved shape of kicking shields helps absorb the impact of kicks and punches more effectively. This reduces the pressure on the arms and shoulders of the person holding the shield.
• Natural posture: the shield follows the natural shape of the body, resulting in a more comfortable posture when absorbing kicks and punches.
• Improved grip: the curved shape can also contribute to a better grip and greater stability of the shield. This makes it easier for the trainer/partner to hold the shield.
• Reduced injuries: thanks to better shock absorption and a more natural posture, the curved shield can help prevent injuries to both the trainer and the person training.
• Realistic training: the curved shape of the kicking shield also makes training more realistic, as it allows you to better imitate the movements of a real opponent.