It is true that you could spam kicks before without too much problem (if you didnt kick in the opposed direction and opened your flank), but now its the complete opposite : you can almost never kick except when you are DEAD SURE.
A middle ground can be reached ?
Certainly, and I'm glad you asked!
Bring back the ability to block the 3 directions while kicking, but give shielders a shield bash or a shield "push" (if you're close enough to someone with shield up and hit kick it will push them back).
2h/polearms had the advantage before, which was retarded and defeated the purpose of having a shield.
They just have to S-Key until you get within your length of weapon to be able to hit them, and then they just kick you with your shield up. If you try dancing at all, then you will always stay out of range to hit them, while they can continue to s-key and hit you.
If you got close enough to be able to hit someone as a 1h/shield, then of course the advantage should be in your court...
I personally think this will be more balanced as they currently have it, than bringing back blocking while kicking and implementing a shield bash. People would really whine about shielders then.