Kicks are a vital part of the MMA game. You can train them by striking against the heavy bag and the banana bags in your gym and of course, by using them in sparring.
However, if the bulk of your kicking training is only kicking heavy bags and then trying to land those same strikes in sparring sessions then you might be disappointed.
You may even feel that there’s an enormous gulf between being able to land body kicks to a bag and then trying to connect with those kicks against an opponent that can think and move and defend themselves intelligently.
This is where hitting pads come in. Your trainer will use training pads, such as focus mitts, to simulate how you’ll throw and land punches and kicks in real time, whilst moving around, striking you back occasionally to make sure your head movement is on point, etc.
You can think of hitting pads as the bridge or stepping stone that sits between bag training and full, live sparring.
With kicks, however, focus mitts won’t cut it.
Focus mitts are designed and shaped specifically for punching and boxing purposes. Trying to catch round kicks with focus mitts can even be dangerous. You’ll need a good, quality set of Thai pads.
Thai pads are much larger/longer than focus mitts and are designed to be able to bear the brunt of ferocious kicks and knees without left over limbs swinging past and hitting the pad holder.
Best Thai Pads Reviewed
You’ll want to make sure that you have the best possible set of Thai pads you can find if you take your training seriously. We’ve selected five of the best products around that will hold up to whatever punishment you can dish out to them.
Fairtex Muay Thai/MMA Curved Pads
- Curved shape: Fairtex Thai pads are specifically designed for maximum endurance and impact. This boxing equipment allows for hard hitting & punching with maximum trainer protection
- Safe and easy to use: Made with premium cow hide leather, the boxing gear is durable and safe for boxing equipment for training at home. Designed in a way that no dust is produced when kept on floor.
- Comfort first: Fairtex kick mitts are made with two support straps for trainer comfort. These kick pads are lightweight & easy to hold for long training sessions. Thick padding for added protection.
- Multipurpose: The fairtex muay thai boxing mitts and pads provide all round usage in sports such as kickboxing, MMA, fighting, fitness, training etc
- Authentic Muay Thai: boxing gear is made in the land of muay thai, i.e. Thailand. The glove is handmade with premium & authentic leather. These weighted gloves are available in sizes from 8-16 oz.
These are the pads used by the pros. If you were to travel to Thailand and train from the source, it’s extremely likely that your Muay Thai trainer would be holding a set of pads just like these ones.
Fairtex have been producing the highest possible quality Muay Thai gear for years. They know exactly how to make pads that can withstand a beating and provide you with the optimal striking surface for your kicks, knees, punches and elbows. They’ve even included a target on the surface of the pads so you can be as precise as possible.
The lightweight pads and sturdy forearm supports allow the holder to hold the pads comfortably and safely for longer. Holding pads for someone can be tougher than it looks so it’s great that these pads are optimised for both kicker and holder.
Everlast Thai Pad (Black)
- Professional-grade training devices for martial arts sports
- Pad features an authentic Thai fighting design
- Made of premium, durably constructed synthetic leather for long lasting durability and functionality
- Dense foam padding in multi-layered, impact-absorbing stuffing
- Ensures optimal safety while blocking kicks, punches, elbows, and knees during training sessions
Everlast have crafted these expert pads out of professional-grade materials for the best possible longevity and impact dispersal. They’re made of premium, durably constructed synthetic leather for that long-lasting durability and functionality. Everlast is more than just a name with this product.
The dense foam padding is arranged in multiple layers to better absorb the impact so that your hands, feet, shins, etc. don’t take undue punishment. Nothing worse than being in the middle of a pad workout and having to stop because of aching wrists or joints. Let the pad take the punishment.
The pads are designed with an authentic Muay Thai style in mind, optimising them for taking heavy kicks and knees.
Sanabul BattleForged Muay Thai Kickboxing Pads
- Exceptional Durability: Our Sanabul Battle Forged Muay Thai Boxing Pads are built to withstand the toughest workouts. Whether you're practicing Muay Thai or kickboxing, these elbow pads are designed...
- Versatile Training Tool: Use these kicking pads for various martial arts disciplines, including Muay Thai, kickboxing, karate, taekwondo, and more. They're ideal for sparring, striking drills, and...
- Ultimate Protection: Crafted to provide excellent protection for both trainers and fighters. These Muay Thai pads offer superior shock absorption, making them perfect for intense sparring sessions.
- Comfortable Design: The ergonomic shape and padded straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit for trainers, allowing you to focus on training without distractions.
- Pro-Grade Quality: Elevate your kick boxing and martial arts training with these top-notch kick pads equipment designed for serious athletes. Enhance your striking skills and stay safe while doing so.
Aesthetics and visual style are something that is often completely overlooked when making Muay Thai and MMA gear. Most pieces of gear look the same, with the same colours and the same boring designs reused again and again.
Sanabul have bucked this trend by producing some of the most stunning Thai pads you’ve ever seen. They offer these minimalist-styled pads in three different colours; white, black and brown. Whilst they are minimally designed, they still somehow manage to look both beautiful and high-class. Nice to have something to choose from other than black with fire motifs.
Beyond the visual elements, these pads are incredibly tough and durable whilst remaining lightweight, which is perfect for the holder/trainer. These pads can withstand any kind of strike that you can throw at them.
RDX MMA and Muay Thai Strike Shield
- MAYA HIDE LEATHER MATERIAL is sturdy and hardwearing. Measuring 37cm long and 19cm wide, this thai pad is versatile for an MMA fighters who wants it all. Go for Karate, Muay Thai, Jiu-jitsu, kick...
- IMT GEL FOAM PADDING makes them almost invincible, allowing your trainee to dish out some major force with full conviction. The gel lining support is exclusively manufactured for real tough workout.
- SHREDDED TEXTILE MATERIAL HANDLE for solid grip. It fits securely onto the forearm of the pad holder and allows for any easy on-and-off application. The forearm handle is heavily reinforced.
- TRIPLE REINFORCED STITCHING along the seams ensure it lasts the test of times. It further enhances strength and durability and the toughest of impacts without getting torn apart.
- QUICK-EZ HOOK AND LOOP offers a comfortable secure fit while supporting the wrists. The long strap on the strike shield are bound to remain strapped on while your trainee smashes them with every...
The cheap/entry level MMA gear market has been completely cornered by the company, RDX. They destroy their competition by producing cheap gear that doesn’t feel or perform like cheap gear. You can get great quality equipment from RDX but without paying out the nose for it.
RDX use their IMT technology which features three layers of gel-integrated foam padding for heavy-duty shock absorption. It can withstand a heavy pounding and long-term use without ripping, tearing or falling apart.
You have a choice of three vibrant colours to choose from including red, white and blue. These pads are purchased individually also, so you can even mix and match colours if you desire to do so.
Contender Fight Sports Kickboxing Muay Thai Pads
- Safely train leg and knee strikes with ease with this highly rated pair of MMA Thai Pads
- Punch and kick fight shields complete with two hook and loop straps to securely fasten to coach or training partner with riveted handle to ensure stability
- Made of durable and easy to clean vinyl construction built to uphold against hard hits in your home or commercial gym
- Protect your athletes while fight training with this solid set of Contender Fight Sports Thai pads
- These target shields can hold up to abuse making them perfect for kickboxing and Muay Thai classes
These pads from Contender Fight Sports have been crafted with nothing but function in mind.
No vibrant colours or wacky styles. No gimmicks and no frills. If you want a set of pads that will take an absolute hammering from people of all sizes, day in and day out, for months or years on end, then these are the pads for you.
They’re made of durable vinyl that will resist rips and tears and is also easy to clean as an added bonus. The none-more-black colour also better hides any scuffs or wear and tear that will accrue over months of use.
It comes complete with two hook-and-loop straps that you can set and forget. Once you’re locked in. You don’t have to worry about them slipping or moving around mid-workout, you’re tight and secure. Though despite this, they’re also quick and easy to slip on or off without any fuss.
Overall
Thai pads are invaluable to your training and are considered a mandatory piece of kit. If you never practice your kicks on a set of pads then you are always going to be lagging behind.
Get yourself a set and you can grow your skills in the comfort of your own home.