The curved profile isn't just cosmetic — it's shaped to redirect straight-punch force away from the coach's wrist joint, and the foam core is layered in density bands so the pad gives audible pop feedback without transmitting full impact through to the holder's hand.
Boxing and kickboxing coaches running pad-holding sessions are the core buyer, and gyms frequently reorder in bulk once their first set wears through the leather face from daily use.
Keep pads away from direct sun or radiator heat when storing, since prolonged heat exposure dries out the leather face and causes it to crack along the seam before the foam core wears out.