Boxing pads are extremely common within training sessions, and for good reason. These incredible pieces of training equipment are used to help boxers grow and develop many fundamental boxing skills as well as help them to further advance their skills.
There are so many different types of boxing pads used frequently in training, all with slightly different purposes. Throughout this article we will take a look at each of the different boxing bag types, what they are used for, and also the skill levels that are required for each of them.
Why Boxing Pads Are So Important During Training
Boxing pads are such an important part of boxing because they allow fighters to work on an extremely focused skill area. Depending on the pad type, this area can be:
- Improve punch accuracy
- Improve punch speed
- Improve technique
- Improve defensive movements
- Improve focus
- Improve timing
Each of these skills, which pads help to improve, can help you to become a far better boxer with far better fundamentals. In addition to this, there is no ceiling to these skills. So continuing to utilise boxing pads will only see these skills continue to improve and develop.
Different Types Of Boxing Pads
Speed Pads
Speed pads are undoubtedly the most popular type of boxing pads to find in a gym. This is because they are the most versatile pads on the market. The pads generally have a bigger circumference, meaning that they are designed for boxers of all abilities, from beginners to professionals.
The portability of these pads allows them to be typically used by trainers to help fighters improve combinations and also footwork. Whether it is jab and move, jab cross and dodge, or piecing together longer combinations, speed pads are hugely versatile.
In addition to this, as you would expect from their name, these pads are often used to help improve a fighter's hand speed. The slightly bigger size of these gloves, allows fighters to work on their speed without having to worry initially about accuracy. This helps to develop a snappier punch and increase reactions.
Checkout our range of high-quality speed pads
Hook & Jab Pads
Hook & jab pads are also commonly known as focus mitts. These are very similar in style to a speed pad. However, they have a slightly smaller face to ensure that the fighter's accuracy is as on point as possible. The pads also feature a slight curve to allow for greater absorption as hooks typically carry more power.
The hook is one of the most dangerous shots in boxing, not only because of the power that can be generated but also the risk it can pose to the puncher if the technique is poor. So making sure that a fighter has the correct technique is vital when trying to develop a fighters overall tools.
Similarly to the speed pads, hook & jab pads are typically used by boxers of all abilities. This is because the pads help beginners to develop one of the most important punches and also help professionals to further hone their skills and techniques.
Checkout our range of hook & jab pads
Strike Shields
Strike shields, also known as the power pad, are one of most fighters' favourite pads. This is because these pads are all about testing, honing in on, and improving a fighter's punching power. The pad is usually rounded with handles on each side that allow the coach to get a secure hold of the pad and take the force that fighters are throwing.
These pads feature a large amount of padding and cushioning to ensure that fighters can throw shots with as much power as possible without harming the coach. The pads also allow fighters to nail their technique for power punches which will in turn help generate even more power.
These pads are typically used for more advanced fighters who already have technique and general skills nailed. This is because throwing such powerful punches when you have not yet nailed the correct technique can cause significant damage to the hands and wrists.
Checkout our range of strike shields
Coach Spar Gloves
Coach spar gloves are a type of boxing pad that is designed to be able to help improve both a fighter's offensive and defensive movements. This is because the pads allow coaches to throw punches back and therefore better emulate a proper fight situation.
The pads are shaped like a boxing glove but have extra palm protection and padding to allow the fighter to throw strikes like they would at any other pad. This type of training ensures that fighters are constantly having to think and reach as opposed to just throwing punches and pads that do not hit back.
These gloves are typically used for more experienced boxers who are training far more than just the basics. Training with coach spar gloves can be very intense and high level but it provides fighters with so many amazing benefits.
Checkout our range of coach spa gloves
Paddles & Sticks
Paddles and sticks are two of the most advanced types of boxing pads. That is why these are only typically used by extremely experienced and skilled boxers. While sticks and paddles do differ in size, they are both designed with the very same purpose, precision.
Paddles are typically very small and flat targets. This means that the boxer has to be incredibly accurate during combinations in order to strike them. Similarly, paddles are long and very thin pole-like pads which make it impossible to strike if punches are not thrown with incredible accuracy.
These styles of pads are not recommended for beginners as they will simply be too hard. However, for a boxer who has already developed fundamental skills, they offer the perfect training style to help you sharpen your tools even more.
Checkout our range of paddles & sticks
UK’s Top Boxing Equipment Retailer
Here at Geezers Boxing, we are proud to be the UK’s leading boxing equipment retailer and stock a huge range of boxing pads. All of the pads that we stock are from the sports biggest brands and are therefore made with quality and durability in mind.
We also stock a huge range of other boxing training equipment such as punching bags, boxing gloves, boxing boots, hand wraps, skipping ropes, and so much more.
