The handles make it easier on my wrist because I don't have to bend them (or do knuckle pushups) and the twisting motion is way easier on the joints. I feel it in my delts rather than inside my shoulders.

As both the striker and the pad holder, the padding is excellent. The curvature is great for uppercuts and catching strikes that might otherwise slide past the pad. I don't know why anyone would by a non-curved body shield these days. Without gloves, the material is rougher on the hands than vinyl. To me it seems like it's going to last forever.