OSU Mary222,
I have had this problem as well. I have bought from a few local suppliers here who each one assured me that their pads would last forever and the pads have all given out rather quickly. Either the stiching goes, or the fabric tears or the padding disintegrates inside.... Very frustrating.
I just bought some of those 5" padded shields from Genesport in Montreal two weeks ago for the first time. I don't know if you tried the Genesport ones or if those are the ones that you have had problems with. So far they have been good, but the blue dye is coming off on our Gi's. It seems to wash out without staining which is good news but the blue on gi's and hands after using them is not so good. I am sure this will pass soon as the dye goes out enough.
Have you used the Genesport pads and what was your experience with them if you did?
