By: Joah Faiello
In 2020, HIT N MOVE® revolutionized the boxing world with the introduction of Dart Padding, also known as DR-T Padding. This wasn’t merely a minor enhancement in glove technology; it represented a significant leap forward in the design and functionality of boxing gloves. At the forefront of this innovation is Ozhan Akcakaya, the founder and CEO of HIT N MOVE®, whose vision was to create gloves that seamlessly blend protection, performance, and comfort.
Modern Boxing Demands Precision
In today’s competitive boxing landscape, precision and power are paramount. Boxers need equipment that not only protects them but also enhances their performance. Recognizing this, Ozhan Akcakaya sought inspiration from an unexpected source—the dart. Known for its perfect balance and precise flight, the dart embodies the qualities essential for a powerful punch. The smooth, stable trajectory of a dart mirrors the motion of a punch, making it an ideal model for innovative glove padding.Photo Courtesy: Hit N Move
Why a Dart?
Ozhan could have chosen any object for inspiration, but the dart’s characteristics perfectly aligned with the needs of a boxer. A dart travels through the air with stability and accuracy, maintaining its direction and speed. This is exactly what a boxer needs when throwing a punch: precision and power that hits the target most of the time. By emulating the dart’s flight dynamics, Ozhan aimed to create padding that not only protected the user’s hand but also enhanced the precision and force of their punches.
Scientific Approach to Design
To bring this vision to life, Ozhan and his team adopted a scientific approach. Collaborating with orthopedic surgeons, they meticulously studied the weight distribution of the human arm. Understanding the natural motion from wrist to fist was crucial in designing padding that could mimic this movement. This in-depth analysis ensured that the padding would not hinder a boxer’s natural punching motion but instead complement it.
Slow-motion camera analysis played a critical role in this process. By capturing the intricacies of a punch in detail, the team could refine the padding’s design to enhance punch speed and accuracy while providing superior hand protection. This rigorous testing and refinement process resulted in padding that offers ideal aerodynamic and ergonomic weight distribution, much like a dart.
Photo Courtesy: Hit N Move
Engineering Excellence
The development of Dart Padding is a testament to the fusion of martial arts expertise, medical insights, and aerodynamic principles. This innovative padding comprises multiple micro-layers, each contributing to the glove’s overall performance. The result is a glove that is compact, comfortable, and durable—qualities that are highly sought after by modern boxers.
Ozhan Akcakaya emphasized that they have successfully combined protection, performance, and comfort in a remarkably compact glove. This unique blend ensures that boxers can train and compete at their highest level without compromising on safety or comfort. The HIT N MOVE® All Day Training Gloves, featuring Dart Padding, have become the preferred choice for fighters who demand the best from their equipment.
Photo Courtesy: Hit N Move
A New Industry Standard
The introduction of Dart Padding by HIT N MOVE® has set a new standard in boxing glove technology. By innovating how glove padding interacts with the wrist and knuckles, the company has developed gloves that efficiently absorb impact and enhance punch momentum due to their aerodynamic design. This groundbreaking approach exemplifies how thoughtful design and engineering can elevate athletic performance to new heights.
The ergonomic design of Dart Padding ensures that the glove fits snugly around the hand, providing maximum support and stability. This reduces the risk of injury and allows boxers to focus on their technique and performance. The aerodynamic qualities of the padding also help increase the speed and force of punches, giving fighters an edge in the ring.
Pioneering Innovation
Ozhan Akcakaya’s commitment to advancing boxing gear is matched by his wife, Alaina Akcakaya, Vice President of Public Relations at HIT N MOVE®. Together, they have driven the company’s mission to exceed athlete expectations worldwide. Their relentless pursuit of innovation showcases the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration in creating cutting-edge sports equipment.
Final Remarks
The development of Dart Padding is a story of passion, precision, and pioneering spirit. Ozhan Akcakaya and his team at HIT N MOVE® have crafted a product that not only meets but sets new standards in boxing gear. Their dedication highlights the transformative power of design and engineering in the modern world of boxing, paving the way for future innovations that will continue to shape the sport.
Published by: Martin De Juan
