Looking at spending 150-200 dollars on a set of thai pads and some punch/focus mitts preferably curved ones.

What is something that is good and going to last. I will probably be using them 5 days a week or more for a few hours a day.

I have been using Ringside for the last 20 years and I just recently switched to Title. The Title Gel mitts are very nice(a bit on the heavy side) and they are all leather.

It helps for me to be located within driving distance of both headquarters.

It depends on what your specific needs are. I have found that contoured thai pads work very well for clinching knee strikes and developing sharp elbows. Plain focus mitts are great for working on quick and clean hand strikes.

As far as brands go, its the same as anything else, you'l get what you pay for. In saying that I am quite partial to "Faritex" and "Top Contender".

Just starting out so something all around would be perfect for both. It seems the curved mitts would work for more punches and possibly elbows.

I've seen good reviews in regards to the products that are offered at www.kofightgear.com

I like the Title brand Thai pads and curved mits, we've been beat'n em for years.