By: Joah Faiello
From Frustration to Innovation
In the world of boxing, the right gear can make all the difference between victory and defeat. For Ozhan Akcakaya, the founder and CEO of Hit N Move, creating high-quality boxing equipment isn’t just a business—it’s a personal mission. Every piece of gear he develops stems from a need he has identified in his own training, ensuring that the products are not only innovative but also highly practical for fighters at all levels.
The Birth of DR-T Padded Gloves
Ozhan Akcakaya’s journey began out of sheer necessity. Frustrated with the equipment available, he decided to create his own. The DR-T padded gloves are a prime example. Ozhan found that many gloves were either too soft or too hard, making them unsuitable for both sparring and heavy bag work. Switching gloves constantly was inefficient and increased the risk of injury. To solve this, he developed the DR-T padding, which provides the perfect balance for a 2-in-1 training glove. These gloves are durable enough for intense bag work while still offering the necessary protection for sparring, minimizing the risk of injury for both fighters.
All Day+ 24oz Gloves: Conditioning without Compromise
Conditioning is another critical aspect of a boxer’s regimen. Ozhan needed a solution that would enhance his conditioning without increasing the risk of injury. This led to the creation of the All Day+ 24oz gloves. Unlike the bulky, cumbersome 24oz gloves that felt like hitting with watermelons, these gloves offer the perfect weight and design to improve endurance and strength safely.
Photo Courtesy: Hit N Move
Turtle Mitts: Realistic Angles and Reduced Strain
Another notable innovation is the Turtle Mitts. Traditional mitts often forced fighters to punch at unrealistic angles, and coaches endured significant pain from the unnatural positions required to catch body shots. Recognizing this, Ozhan designed mitts that simulate realistic punching angles and place the coach’s arm in a more natural position, reducing joint strain. Inspired by the dome shape of a turtle’s shell, fthese mitts allow punches to land on the back of the hand, promoting better technique and reducing injury risks for both the fighter and the coach.
Giving Back to Coaches
Ozhan’s dedication to improving boxing gear extends beyond personal comfort and effectiveness. He understands the sacrifices coaches make, absorbing punches to help fighters train. By designing equipment like the Turtle Mitts, he aims to give back to the coaches, making their job easier and less painful.
Photo Courtesy: Hit N Move
Continuous Innovation at Hit N Move
The spirit of innovation at Hit N Move doesn’t stop with these products. Ozhan is constantly testing and refining his gear, driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection. Whether it’s enhancing current products or brainstorming new ones, his commitment to innovation is unwavering. This continuous cycle of feedback and improvement ensures that Hit N Move’s gear remains at the cutting edge of boxing technology.
The Role of Alaina Akcakaya
Alaina Akcakaya, Ozhan’s wife and the Vice President of Public Relations at Hit N Move, plays a pivotal role in bringing these innovations to the wider boxing community. Her efforts in public relations help highlight the unique value of Hit N Move’s products, ensuring that the brand remains a trusted name in the industry.
Photo Courtesy: Hit N Move
A Legacy of Practical and Revolutionary Gear
In the ever-evolving sport of boxing, where the demands on athletes are constantly increasing, having gear that keeps up with these challenges is crucial. Ozhan Akcakaya’s personal approach to equipment design ensures that every product is built with the needs of fighters in mind. His commitment to innovation, combined with Alaina’s dedication to promoting the brand, has positioned Hit N Move as a leader in the boxing equipment industry.
Conclusion
From the DR-T padded gloves to the Turtle Mitts, each piece of gear tells a story of necessity and ingenuity. Ozhan’s personal involvement in every step of the design process that these products are not only practical but also revolutionary. For fighters looking to elevate their training, Hit N Move offers equipment that embodies the relentless spirit of a champion.
Published by: Khy Talara
