Fairtex "Superior" Curved Thai Pads - KPLS2

[derekjvelas]

Has anyone tried these Thai pads? I really like the quality and durability of Fairtex equipment and I'm deciding between these pads and the Fairtex Curved Thai Pads (KPLC2). Based on the description from the website, these pads differ in that they are lighter and made of a premium type of leather in comparison to the KPLC2, which explains the additional ~$40 difference in price.

I really like how the KPLC2 absorbs kicks but the shops around my area don't carry a pair of KPLS2s for me to try out and compare. I'm just afraid that the lighter construction might make the pads flimsier or bouncier. These pads are relatively new so any input would help! Thanks!

^ These pads only come in all black, but they have the bulls-eye and everything just like the KPLC2.

 

[ClampXVII]

I like their curve thai pad design but the padding breaks down into tiny little fragments and starts to shoot out of the seams. I've owned 5 pairs and they're all like that. I get hit in my tiny asian eyes all the time. Freaking painful. Had to throw them out.

 

[derekjvelas]

Oh wow, that's a shame. I spoke with Fairtex's customer service rep about it and she assured that the product would last a pretty long time; possibly years after daily use. She assured that the KPLS2 were a better buy since there is more genuine leather used in the construction opposed to the KPLC2.

You really went to five pairs already? That sounds like a nightmare. How often do you train and, if you don't me asking, what specific models did you use? I was hoping that these pads would be durable.

 

[ClampXVII]

The old Fairtex models are great. Top King is also great. I really like the old school hard Thai pads for longevity. The softer pads break down quicker but before they do they're awesome to hold.

 

[nomilkforsanta]

I've been kicking them for about 6 months now (my trainer has them). They are soft from the start and are holding up much better then his previous "regular" pair. The leather is the best i've seen out of (fairtex regular, boon, top king, twins, windy, and ringside)...however they are pads and are slowly cracking on the sides.

Honestly, they are just a better made version of their previous pair and I feel they are worth the money. If you have any more questions feel free to ask...i'll be hitting them tomorrow morning.

 

[ClampXVII]

Let us know if they padding starts puffing out of the sides. It's super painful when it gets in your eyes!

 

[derekjvelas]

Hey nomilkforsanta, have you ever tried the Fairtex KPLC2's? I think they are about a quarter to half a pound heavier than the KPLS2's but that's because they have a denser foam. The outside leather isn't as genuine as the KPSL2 so it's not as soft but I like the way the kicks are absorbed into the foam. It's not bouncy but then again, that's before breaking the pads in so I don't know how it'll stand up over time.

This is the KPLC2:

The regular pads KPL2s are made with vinyl and although they aren't as durable in terms of leather construction, ClampXVII is right in that the foam inside is tougher. I personally prefer a pad that's curved so it's better on strain for the holder and offers a better range of motion for the kick.

Nomilkforsanta, do you feel that the KPLS2 pads were kinda bouncy when you first owned them? I tried these pads very VERY briefly with a sparring partner that moved away but I remember that they had more bounce back with each kick. How's the weight on your arms during long training sessions, since the pads claim to be lighter than the KPLC2?

ClampXVII, just to clarify, is the foam inside degrading to the point where it's shooting out of the sides? How long did you own the pads before you saw that happening? Which curved models did you try out?

 

[ClampXVII]

I have multiple curved pads and even straight pads the fairtex and ring to cage curved models lasted about a year and a half before the foam was obliterated. I was using them 3 times a day 5 days a week.

 

[nomilkforsanta]

Let us know if they padding starts puffing out of the sides. It's super painful when it gets in your eyes!

Padding came out for ~1 month and if it happens now it is unnoticeable. My coach is a trainer at Fairtex Mountain view and holds pads all day long and they are holding up better then my personal boon pair I use once a week.

 

[nomilkforsanta]

I don't hold them I just kick them.

I was basically the first person to strike them when my coach bought them. They were no more bouncy then the regular curved fairtex pads. If you are looking for a pad with no bounce, look at Top King or Boon.

I have tried almost all of the fairtex thai pad line and the superior are the best...i only wish they made them in small and with buckles.

If I remember i'll take a picture of his pair monday to show you how they are holding up.