Kurt Cornwell from MKG Kali Detroit tests out the KONTRA apparel range from DFND. The All American KONTRA Performance Gear is the most effective way of enhancing performance while preventing and rehabilitating injuries. Elite performance and protection benefits approved and utilized by US Special Forces, NBA, NFL, and MLB teams and Tuhon Apolo for the Martial Arts Industry.
What does it look like? What’s it like to wear? Does it work and feel comfortable? Is it worth the money?
Does he rate it or rubbish it? Check it out to see…
High-Performance Apparel Brand DFND Inks Brand Partnership with Martial Arts Legend Apolo Ladra
Compression specialists and human performance advocates DFND have signed an exclusive agreement with World Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductee and Filipino Martial Arts legend, Apolo Ladra. Under the terms of this unique deal, DFND will produce the Official Training Uniform for Ladra’s affiliated schools around the world, making custom Kontra branded high-performance compression and training products available to all students across the globe.
Tuhon (Master) Apolo Ladra has trained the martial arts for over 40 years, reaching the rank of 7th Degree in several TaeKwonDo Associations. Achieving the Rank of Master under the direct Heir of Pekiti Tirsia Kali, Grand Tuhon Leo T. Gaje Jr. “Tuhon” Apolo created the KONTRA (which means “to Counter”) line as an alternative training equipment brand to not only provide superior safety gear for training, but also a line of performance and lifestyle products to supplement recovery.
“After 40 years of hard training, my body acquired some injuries which restricted my movement and recovery. This essential training gear now allows me to perform at peak level as I train, but also allows me to stay ahead of my instructors and the students that I lead daily. I love these products.” Explains Apolo Ladra. “As a Martial Artist and teacher, safety and injury prevention are always top of mind. Wearing Kontra by DFND products while training helps enhance mobilization and balance while encouraging proper mechanics and posture, keeping the athlete safer and healthier. After being in the Martial Arts for over four decades, I know first hand how important it is to train hard but train safe, and the Kontra Line will help us ALL do that, regardless of age, experience, or ability.”
Says Steve Burnett, DFND President. “The athleticism and power that martial arts training takes is the highest level, and injuries and fatigue can slow any athlete down. We know that DFND’s performance compression and recovery products will help his students with reduced injuries, lessened fatigue and soreness, and improved recovery. We are honored to be joining this team.”
DFND Compression products are produced with the highest quality, 360-degree circular knit fabric for maximum muscle containment and support during intense activity. Every product in the DFND line is entirely made in the United States, supporting domestic growth and supporting the manufacturing industry. The complete KONTRA Powered by DFND Compression store will be open at DFNDUSA.com.
Reviewed by
Kurt Cornwell is a life-long student of martial arts. He is the founding instructor of MKG (Minnesota Kali Group) Detroit, the HQ for the MKG Method of Martial Art for the state of Michigan. He is a member of the MKG, Inosanto, and Ghost Elusive Combat Instructor Associations, and a student of a variety of combat methods.
Kurt is also a massage therapist, the creator of the martial art lifestyle brand Mano Mano Apparel, host of “SMMASh” on YouTube, and is a writer and content creator. He lives in Metro Detroit with his wife and twin daughters.
DFND their Story
Started in 2015, DFND (pronounced “de-fend”) is the brainchild of two industry veterans whose aim was to bring quality performance apparel to the people who needed it most; our US Military and First Responders. Proudly specializing in developing products that maximize human performance, DFND currently offers a Graduated Compression for Injury Prevention, Training, and Recovery, a complete line of Training Gear and a specialized Fire Resistant (FR) line. Every item that DFND offers is entirely Made in the USA and 100% Berry Compliant, and is uniquely crafted to support the needs of athletes training at any level.
Since it’s initial launch, DFND has been adopted by the NBA, NFL, and over 100 D1 collegiate teams. In addition, individual Olympic athletes, as well as NHL, MLB, MMA, and other elite athletes around the world chose to train and recover in DFND products every day.
After five years focusing on specialty markets, we are proud to open our catalogue to the public and offer the complete DFND line to all athletes. We believe that everyone deserves access to apparel that supports training, improves readiness, reactivates the body, encourages faster recovery and, most importantly, enhances overall health.
Made In The USA
All DFND products are Designed, Tested, and Made in the USA, in Los Angeles. They take pride in producing garments out of 100% Berry Compliant materials, supporting American businesses and creating the best garment possible. They strive to support local businesses that provide safe working conditions, good paying jobs, and a cleaner environment.
They aim to support the American worker and their futures, helping to promote and sustain American manufacturing jobs for years to come.
To check out the cool kit go here; DFND.com
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