Kick & Strike Pads

At a glance: Boxing pads come in two main forms: compact hand pads for precision work and larger Thai pads for power strikes and kicks. Hand pads suit boxers and general fitness training, while Thai pads are essential for Muay Thai and kickboxing. The Elevate Boxing Pads 'Prime' and Elevate Muay Thai Pads Prime offer excellent value for beginners and recreational training.

Types of boxing pads

Hand pads, also called focus mitts, are small curved targets held in each hand. They allow the coach to move quickly and create fast combinations. Hand pads are ideal for boxing drills, reflex training and cardio workouts. Thai pads are larger rectangular shields that can absorb heavy punches, kicks, knees and elbows. They are the standard for Muay Thai, kickboxing and MMA striking sessions. Thai pads require more experience from the holder but let fighters work at full power.

Materials and construction

Most pads use synthetic leather or genuine leather for the outer shell. Synthetic leather keeps costs down and resists sweat well, making it practical for busy gyms. Genuine leather offers greater durability and a premium feel for intensive daily use. Padding density matters: multi-layer foam absorbs shock effectively, while cheaper single-layer foam compresses quickly. Curved hand pads reduce wrist strain for the holder, and reinforced stitching extends the pad's lifespan under repeated impact.

Choosing for your sport and level

For boxing training, hand pads let you drill speed, accuracy and head movement. Pair them with boxing gloves in 10 or 12 oz for most pad work. Kickboxers and Muay Thai practitioners need Thai pads to train leg kicks and knees safely. Beginners benefit from lighter, more compact Thai pads that are easier to hold, while advanced fighters prefer heavier models that stay stable under full-force strikes. If you train multiple disciplines, owning both types covers all striking ranges. Women often find smaller hand pads more comfortable; check our women's boxing gloves and kickboxing gloves for women for complete training kits.

Our picks for each budget

Budget: The Elevate Boxing Pads 'Prime' and Elevate Muay Thai Pads Prime deliver reliable construction and effective shock absorption for recreational training and beginners at an accessible price point. Both models use durable synthetic leather and multi-layer foam, making them practical for home use and gym classes without compromising on essential protection.

What our customers choose

The best-selling model is the Elevate Muay Thai Pads Prime in black, capturing one-fifth of recent sales. The Venum Hand Pads Light in black takes second place, followed closely by the Elevate Boxing Pads 'Prime' in black and white as the third most popular choice.

Compare your options

• Elevate Boxing Pads 'Prime': beginner to intermediate level, synthetic leather, black and white colourway
• Elevate Muay Thai Pads Prime: beginner to intermediate level, designed for kicks and knees, black finish
• Venum Hand Pads Light: beginner to intermediate level, lightweight curved design, available in black or black and white
• Venum Thai Pads Giant: advanced level, extra-large surface for power training, black
• Booster Thai Pads: intermediate to advanced level, traditional Thai design, black and white
• Everlast Boxing Pads Core: beginner level, classic focus mitt shape, black

Frequently asked questions

Which boxing pads are the best choice?

For beginners and recreational training, the Elevate Boxing Pads 'Prime' offer excellent value with durable synthetic leather and effective padding. If you practise Muay Thai or kickboxing, the Elevate Muay Thai Pads Prime provide the larger surface needed for kicks and knees. Advanced strikers working at competition intensity should consider the Venum Thai Pads Giant for maximum shock absorption and stability under full-power techniques.

What is the difference between hand pads and Thai pads?

Hand pads are small curved mitts designed for boxing combinations, head movement drills and speed work. The holder wears one on each hand and can move them quickly to create angles. Thai pads are larger rectangular shields held with both hands on a single pad. They absorb heavier strikes including kicks, knees and elbows, making them essential for Muay Thai and kickboxing training where leg techniques are central to the curriculum.

How do I hold boxing pads safely?

Keep your wrists straight and aligned with your forearms to prevent injury. Absorb each strike by moving slightly with the punch rather than resisting the impact rigidly. Position the pads at the correct height and angle so your partner does not have to adjust their technique. For Thai pads, brace your whole body and use your legs to absorb kicks. Beginners should start with lighter strikes and build intensity gradually as both holder and striker develop proper form.

Last updated: October 2026