[Ranylyn]

Alternatively...

Defense as a stat has less to do with literal skin toughness and more to do with combat knowledge. How to move to roll with the punches and absorb blows, etc. As such, I propose the following.

"They can't anticipate a sudden, sharp kick! Well, unless you keep doing it and it becomes predictable. If you haven't kicked that opponent in awhile, your sudden action bypasses their defenses and armor. However, it also grants them the "Kicked" status, which nullifies this effect for 2 rounds."

A flat scaled str action with knockback every few rounds is still a little underwhelming compared to things that get the full benefit of SWA, but it at least gives the skill a bit more use by those who build for Str.

(As well, perhaps we could give additional benefits to equipment directly meant to benefit kicks. The Beowhulf set, for example, could add 1/2 SWA to that unexpected kick, but is still blocked against spamming.)

(Idea inspired by: Soul Calibur 2-4. The kicks are generally weak, but fast, and easiest to land against an opponent looking to Guard Impact a weapon swing.)