diff --git a/data/models/License.txt b/data/models/License.txt
index 3ee158000..68c56d492 100644
--- a/data/models/License.txt
+++ b/data/models/License.txt
@@ -74,6 +74,9 @@
 
 * rubber_ball-icon, plunger icon, cake icon, bowling ball texture and icon
     by Totoplus62, released under CC-BY-SA 3.0
+
+* shield-icon
+   by tuxfan, release under CC-BY-SA 3.0
     
     
 Others are GPL, by the original (super)TuxKart team
diff --git a/data/models/bubblegum-icon.png b/data/models/bubblegum-icon.png
index 3c144dff4..637d532d3 100644
Binary files a/data/models/bubblegum-icon.png and b/data/models/bubblegum-icon.png differ
diff --git a/data/models/bubblegum_shield.b3d b/data/models/bubblegum_shield.b3d
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..3a1a4c01e
Binary files /dev/null and b/data/models/bubblegum_shield.b3d differ
diff --git a/data/models/bubblegum_shield.png b/data/models/bubblegum_shield.png
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..fe65992a9
Binary files /dev/null and b/data/models/bubblegum_shield.png differ
diff --git a/data/models/shield-icon.png b/data/models/shield-icon.png
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..41e27bc21
Binary files /dev/null and b/data/models/shield-icon.png differ
diff --git a/data/stk_config.xml b/data/stk_config.xml
index 2746789d0..c42716288 100644
--- a/data/stk_config.xml
+++ b/data/stk_config.xml
@@ -114,8 +114,10 @@
                     nolok-bubble-gum, easter egg -->
   <switch time="5"  items="1 0 4 4 2 5 2 7"/>
 
-  <!-- How often bubblegum get driven over before it disappears. --> 
-  <bubblegum disappear-counter="1"/>
+  <!-- disappear-counter: How often bubblegum gets driven over before it disappears. 
+       shield-time: How long the bubblegum shield lasts 
+       restrict-weapons: If true, using weapons will destroy the user's shield --> 
+  <bubblegum disappear-counter="1" shield-time="10.0" restrict-weapons="false"/>
 
   <!-- explosion-impulse-objects is the impulse that pushes physical objects
        away if there is an explosion. -->
diff --git a/src/config/stk_config.cpp b/src/config/stk_config.cpp
index 33424df9e..b3f840e74 100644
--- a/src/config/stk_config.cpp
+++ b/src/config/stk_config.cpp
@@ -118,6 +118,7 @@ void STKConfig::load(const std::string &filename)
     CHECK_NEG(m_anvil_weight,              "anvil-weight"               );
     CHECK_NEG(m_item_switch_time,          "item-switch-time"           );
     CHECK_NEG(m_bubblegum_counter,         "bubblegum disappear counter");
+    CHECK_NEG(m_bubblegum_shield_time,     "bubblegum shield-time"      );
     CHECK_NEG(m_explosion_impulse_objects, "explosion-impulse-objects"  );
     CHECK_NEG(m_max_history,               "max-history"                );
     CHECK_NEG(m_max_skidmarks,             "max-skidmarks"              );
@@ -159,6 +160,8 @@ void STKConfig::init_defaults()
         m_smooth_angle_limit     =
         m_penalty_time           = m_explosion_impulse_objects = UNDEFINED;
     m_bubblegum_counter          = -100;
+    m_bubblegum_shield_time      = -100;
+    m_shield_restrict_weapos     = false;
     m_max_karts                  = -100;
     m_max_history                = -100;
     m_max_skidmarks              = -100;
@@ -335,7 +338,9 @@ void STKConfig::getAllData(const XMLNode * root)
 
     if(const XMLNode *bubblegum_node= root->getNode("bubblegum"))
     {
-        bubblegum_node->get("disappear-counter", &m_bubblegum_counter);
+        bubblegum_node->get("disappear-counter", &m_bubblegum_counter     );
+        bubblegum_node->get("shield-time",       &m_bubblegum_shield_time );
+        bubblegum_node->get("restrict-weapons",  &m_shield_restrict_weapos);
     }
 
     if(const XMLNode *explosion_node= root->getNode("explosion"))
diff --git a/src/config/stk_config.hpp b/src/config/stk_config.hpp
index 8dda02cb4..67b93140d 100644
--- a/src/config/stk_config.hpp
+++ b/src/config/stk_config.hpp
@@ -74,8 +74,10 @@ public:
                                          passed on.                          */
     float m_anvil_time;              /**<Time an anvil is active.            */
     float m_item_switch_time;        /**< Time items will be switched.       */
-    int   m_bubblegum_counter;       /**< How many times bananas must be eaten
-                                          before they disappear.             */
+    int   m_bubblegum_counter;       /**< How many times bubble gums must be
+                                          driven over before they disappear. */
+    float m_bubblegum_shield_time;   /**<How long a bubble gum shield lasts. */
+    bool  m_shield_restrict_weapos;  /**<Wether weapon usage is punished. */
     float m_explosion_impulse_objects;/**<Impulse of explosion on moving
                                           objects, e.g. road cones, ...      */
     float m_penalty_time;            /**< Penalty time when starting too
diff --git a/src/items/attachment.cpp b/src/items/attachment.cpp
index 1bbbdf2cc..da64c6f18 100644
--- a/src/items/attachment.cpp
+++ b/src/items/attachment.cpp
@@ -36,7 +36,8 @@
 #include "network/race_state.hpp"
 #include "network/network_manager.hpp"
 #include "utils/constants.hpp"
-
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
+// Log::verbose("attachment", "Decreasing shield \n");
 /** Initialises the attachment each kart has.
  */
 Attachment::Attachment(AbstractKart* kart)
@@ -92,7 +93,7 @@ void Attachment::set(AttachmentType type, float time,
 {
     bool was_bomb = (m_type == ATTACH_BOMB);
     scene::ISceneNode* bomb_scene_node = NULL;
-    if (was_bomb && type == ATTACH_SWATTER)
+    if (was_bomb && type == ATTACH_SWATTER) //What about  ATTACH_NOLOKS_SWATTER ??
     {
         // let's keep the bomb node, and create a new one for
         // the new attachment
@@ -206,6 +207,13 @@ void Attachment::clear()
 */
 void Attachment::hitBanana(Item *item, int new_attachment)
 {
+    //Bubble gum shield effect:
+    if(m_type == ATTACH_BUBBLEGUM_SHIELD)
+    {
+        m_time_left -= stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time;
+        return;
+    }
+
     float leftover_time   = 0.0f;
 
     bool add_a_new_item = true;
@@ -414,6 +422,18 @@ void Attachment::update(float dt)
     case ATTACH_TINYTUX:
         // Nothing to do for tinytux, this is all handled in EmergencyAnimation
         break;
+    case ATTACH_BUBBLEGUM_SHIELD:
+        if(!m_kart->isShielded())
+        {
+            m_time_left = 0.0f;
+            if (m_kart->m_bubble_drop)
+            {
+                Log::verbose("Attachment", "Drop a small bubble gum. \n");;
+                //TODO: drop a bubble gum item on the track
+            }
+
+        }
+        break;
     }   // switch
 
     // Detach attachment if its time is up.
diff --git a/src/items/attachment.hpp b/src/items/attachment.hpp
index 5db73d08e..b6c65ae79 100644
--- a/src/items/attachment.hpp
+++ b/src/items/attachment.hpp
@@ -59,6 +59,7 @@ public:
         ATTACH_SWATTER,
         ATTACH_NOLOKS_SWATTER,
         ATTACH_TINYTUX,
+        ATTACH_BUBBLEGUM_SHIELD,
         ATTACH_MAX,
         ATTACH_NOTHING
     };
diff --git a/src/items/attachment_manager.cpp b/src/items/attachment_manager.cpp
index 5e1eadd21..61fc031b0 100644
--- a/src/items/attachment_manager.cpp
+++ b/src/items/attachment_manager.cpp
@@ -47,13 +47,14 @@ struct  initAttachmentType {Attachment::AttachmentType attachment;
 
 static const initAttachmentType iat[]=
 {
-    {Attachment::ATTACH_PARACHUTE,      "parachute.b3d",    "parachute-attach-icon.png"},
-    {Attachment::ATTACH_BOMB,           "bomb.b3d",         "bomb-attach-icon.png"     },
-    {Attachment::ATTACH_ANVIL,          "anchor.b3d",       "anchor-attach-icon.png"   },
-    {Attachment::ATTACH_SWATTER,        "swatter.b3d",      "swatter-icon.png"         },
-    {Attachment::ATTACH_NOLOKS_SWATTER, "swatter_nolok.b3d","swatter-icon.png"         },
-    {Attachment::ATTACH_TINYTUX,        "reset-button.b3d", "reset-attach-icon.png"    },
-    {Attachment::ATTACH_MAX,            "",                 ""                         },
+    {Attachment::ATTACH_PARACHUTE,        "parachute.b3d",        "parachute-attach-icon.png"    },
+    {Attachment::ATTACH_BOMB,             "bomb.b3d",             "bomb-attach-icon.png"         },
+    {Attachment::ATTACH_ANVIL,            "anchor.b3d",           "anchor-attach-icon.png"       },
+    {Attachment::ATTACH_SWATTER,          "swatter.b3d",          "swatter-icon.png"             },
+    {Attachment::ATTACH_NOLOKS_SWATTER,   "swatter_nolok.b3d",    "swatter-icon.png"             },
+    {Attachment::ATTACH_TINYTUX,          "reset-button.b3d",     "reset-attach-icon.png"        },
+    {Attachment::ATTACH_BUBBLEGUM_SHIELD, "bubblegum_shield.b3d", "shield-icon.png"              },
+    {Attachment::ATTACH_MAX,              "",                     ""                             },
 };
 
 //-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
diff --git a/src/items/bowling.cpp b/src/items/bowling.cpp
index 07fd0f391..7d1eef68a 100644
--- a/src/items/bowling.cpp
+++ b/src/items/bowling.cpp
@@ -24,6 +24,8 @@
 #include "karts/abstract_kart.hpp"
 #include "utils/random_generator.hpp"
 
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
+
 float Bowling::m_st_max_distance;   // maximum distance for a bowling ball to be attracted
 float Bowling::m_st_max_distance_squared;
 float Bowling::m_st_force_to_target;
@@ -213,11 +215,21 @@ bool Bowling::hit(AbstractKart* kart, PhysicalObject* obj)
     bool was_real_hit = Flyable::hit(kart, obj);
     if(was_real_hit)
     {
-        m_has_hit_kart = kart != NULL;
-        explode(kart, obj, /*hit_secondary*/false);
+        if(kart && kart->isShielded())
+        {
+            kart->decreaseShieldTime(0.0f); //Decreasing the shield time by the default value.
+            Log::verbose("Bowling", "Decreasing shield!");
+            return true;
+        }
+        else
+        {
+            m_has_hit_kart = kart != NULL;
+            explode(kart, obj, /*hit_secondary*/false);
+        }
     }
     return was_real_hit;
 }   // hit
+
 // ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 /** Returns the hit effect object to use when this objects hits something.
  *  \returns The hit effect object, or NULL if no hit effect should be played.
diff --git a/src/items/cake.cpp b/src/items/cake.cpp
index e01ce9d68..d09ccc11f 100644
--- a/src/items/cake.cpp
+++ b/src/items/cake.cpp
@@ -26,6 +26,8 @@
 #include "utils/constants.hpp"
 #include "utils/random_generator.hpp"
 
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
+
 float Cake::m_st_max_distance_squared;
 float Cake::m_gravity;
 
@@ -168,7 +170,15 @@ bool Cake::hit(AbstractKart* kart, PhysicalObject* obj)
 {
     bool was_real_hit = Flyable::hit(kart, obj);
     if(was_real_hit)
+    {
+        if(kart && kart->isShielded())
+        {
+            kart->decreaseShieldTime(0.0f); //Decreasing the shield time by the default value.
+            Log::verbose("Cake", "Decreasing shield! \n");
+            return false; //Not sure if a shield hit is a real hit.
+        }
         explode(kart, obj);
+    }
 
     return was_real_hit;
 }   // hit
diff --git a/src/items/flyable.cpp b/src/items/flyable.cpp
index d0116415d..2655a4d09 100644
--- a/src/items/flyable.cpp
+++ b/src/items/flyable.cpp
@@ -425,7 +425,7 @@ void Flyable::updateFromServer(const FlyableInfo &f, float dt)
 
 // ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 /** Returns true if the item hit the kart who shot it (to avoid that an item
- *  that's too close to the shoter hits the shoter).
+ *  that's too close to the shooter hits the shooter).
  *  \param kart Kart who was hit.
  */
 bool Flyable::isOwnerImmunity(const AbstractKart* kart_hit) const
@@ -448,7 +448,7 @@ bool Flyable::hit(AbstractKart *kart_hit, PhysicalObject* object)
     if(isOwnerImmunity(kart_hit)) return false;
 
     if (kart_hit != NULL)
-    {
+    {    //TODO: reduce shield time; add other string ?
         RaceGUIBase* gui = World::getWorld()->getRaceGUI();
         irr::core::stringw hit_message =
             StringUtils::insertValues(getHitString(kart_hit),
diff --git a/src/items/item_manager.cpp b/src/items/item_manager.cpp
index 4b7fc0ad1..161f5ca98 100644
--- a/src/items/item_manager.cpp
+++ b/src/items/item_manager.cpp
@@ -278,6 +278,10 @@ Item* ItemManager::newItem(const Vec3& xyz, float distance,
 void ItemManager::collectedItem(Item *item, AbstractKart *kart, int add_info)
 {
     assert(item);
+    if((item->getType() == Item::ITEM_BUBBLEGUM || item->getType() == Item::ITEM_BUBBLEGUM_NOLOK) && kart->isShielded())
+    {// shielded karts can simply drive over bubble gums without any effect.
+        return;
+    }
     item->collected(kart);
     kart->collectedItem(item, add_info);
 }   // collectedItem
diff --git a/src/items/plunger.cpp b/src/items/plunger.cpp
index e6b50a0f5..b849c28b5 100644
--- a/src/items/plunger.cpp
+++ b/src/items/plunger.cpp
@@ -34,7 +34,7 @@
 #include "utils/constants.hpp"
 #include "utils/string_utils.hpp"
 
-
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
 
 // -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Plunger::Plunger(AbstractKart *kart)
@@ -180,6 +180,13 @@ bool Plunger::hit(AbstractKart *kart, PhysicalObject *obj)
 {
     if(isOwnerImmunity(kart)) return false;
 
+    /*if(kart && kart->isShielded())
+    {
+        //kart->decreaseShieldTime(0.0f); //Decreasing the shield time by the default value.
+        Log::verbose("Plunger", "Almost Decreasing shield! \n");
+
+        return false; //Not sure if a shield hit is a real hit.
+    }*/
     RaceGUIBase* gui = World::getWorld()->getRaceGUI();
     irr::core::stringw hit_message;
 
diff --git a/src/items/powerup.cpp b/src/items/powerup.cpp
index d6bd8022c..621a54875 100644
--- a/src/items/powerup.cpp
+++ b/src/items/powerup.cpp
@@ -34,7 +34,7 @@
 #include "physics/triangle_mesh.hpp"
 #include "tracks/track.hpp"
 #include "utils/string_utils.hpp"
-
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
 
 const wchar_t* getAnchorString()
 {
@@ -164,7 +164,7 @@ void Powerup::set(PowerupManager::PowerupType type, int n)
             break;
 
         case PowerupManager::POWERUP_BUBBLEGUM:
-            m_sound_use = sfx_manager->createSoundSource("goo");
+                m_sound_use = sfx_manager->createSoundSource("goo");
             break ;
 
         case PowerupManager::POWERUP_SWITCH:
@@ -192,12 +192,38 @@ Material *Powerup::getIcon() const
     return powerup_manager->getIcon(m_type);
 }
 
+
+
+
+
+//-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+/** Does the sound configuration.
+ */
+void  Powerup::adjustSound()
+{
+    m_sound_use->position(m_owner->getXYZ());
+    // in multiplayer mode, sounds are NOT positional (because we have multiple listeners)
+    // so the sounds of all AIs are constantly heard. So reduce volume of sounds.
+    if (race_manager->getNumLocalPlayers() > 1)
+    {
+        // player karts played at full volume; AI karts much dimmer
+
+        if (m_owner->getController()->isPlayerController())
+        {
+            m_sound_use->volume( 1.0f );
+        }
+        else
+        {
+            m_sound_use->volume( std::min(0.5f, 1.0f / race_manager->getNumberOfKarts()) );
+        }
+    }
+}
 //-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 /** Use (fire) this powerup.
  */
 void Powerup::use()
 {
-    // Play custom kart sound when collectible is used
+    // Play custom kart sound when collectible is used //TODO: what about the bubble gum?
     if (m_type != PowerupManager::POWERUP_NOTHING &&
         m_type != PowerupManager::POWERUP_SWATTER &&
         m_type != PowerupManager::POWERUP_ZIPPER)
@@ -233,26 +259,11 @@ void Powerup::use()
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_RUBBERBALL:
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_BOWLING:
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_PLUNGER:
-
-        m_sound_use->position(m_owner->getXYZ());
-
-        // in multiplayer mode, sounds are NOT positional (because we have multiple listeners)
-        // so the sounds of all AIs are constantly heard. So reduce volume of sounds.
-        if (race_manager->getNumLocalPlayers() > 1)
-        {
-            // player karts played at full volume; AI karts much dimmer
-
-            if (m_owner->getController()->isPlayerController())
-            {
-                m_sound_use->volume( 1.0f );
-            }
-            else
-            {
-                m_sound_use->volume( std::min(0.5f, 1.0f / race_manager->getNumberOfKarts()) );
-            }
-        }
-
+        if(stk_config->m_shield_restrict_weapos)
+            m_owner->setShieldTime(0.0f); // make weapon usage destroy the shield
+        Powerup::adjustSound();
         m_sound_use->play();
+
         projectile_manager->newProjectile(m_owner, world->getTrack(), m_type);
         break ;
 
@@ -261,51 +272,55 @@ void Powerup::use()
                 ->set(Attachment::ATTACH_SWATTER,
                       m_owner->getKartProperties()->getSwatterDuration());
         break;
+
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_BUBBLEGUM:
+        // use the bubble gum the traditional way, if the kart is looking back
+        if (m_owner->getControls().m_look_back)
         {
-        Vec3 hit_point;
-        Vec3 normal;
-        const Material* material_hit;
-        Vec3 pos = m_owner->getXYZ();
-        Vec3 to=pos+Vec3(0, -10000, 0);
-        world->getTrack()->getTriangleMesh().castRay(pos, to, &hit_point,
+            Vec3 hit_point;
+            Vec3 normal;
+            const Material* material_hit;
+            Vec3 pos = m_owner->getXYZ();
+            Vec3 to=pos+Vec3(0, -10000, 0);
+            world->getTrack()->getTriangleMesh().castRay(pos, to, &hit_point,
                                                      &material_hit, &normal);
-        // This can happen if the kart is 'over nothing' when dropping
-        // the bubble gum
-        if(!material_hit)
-            return;
-        normal.normalize();
+            // This can happen if the kart is 'over nothing' when dropping
+            // the bubble gum
+            if(!material_hit)
+                return;
+            normal.normalize();
 
-        // in multiplayer mode, sounds are NOT positional (because we have multiple listeners)
-        // so the sounds of all AIs are constantly heard. So reduce volume of sounds.
-        if (race_manager->getNumLocalPlayers() > 1)
+            Powerup::adjustSound();
+            m_sound_use->play();
+
+            pos.setY(hit_point.getY()-0.05f);
+        
+            ItemManager::get()->newItem(Item::ITEM_BUBBLEGUM, pos, normal, m_owner);
+        }
+        else // if the kart is looking forward, use the bubblegum as a shield
         {
-            const int np = race_manager->getNumLocalPlayers();
-            const int nai = race_manager->getNumberOfKarts() - np;
 
-            // player karts played at full volume; AI karts much dimmer
-
-            if (m_owner->getController()->isPlayerController())
+            if(!m_owner->isShielded()) //if the previous shield had been used up.
             {
-                m_sound_use->volume( 1.0f );
+                m_owner->getAttachment()->set(Attachment::ATTACH_BUBBLEGUM_SHIELD,
+                                               stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time);
             }
-            else
+            else // using a bubble gum while still having a shield
             {
-                m_sound_use->volume( 1.0f / nai );
+                m_owner->getAttachment()->set(Attachment::ATTACH_BUBBLEGUM_SHIELD,
+                                               stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time + m_owner->getShieldTime());
             }
-        }
 
-        m_sound_use->position(m_owner->getXYZ());
-        m_sound_use->play();
+            m_sound_use = sfx_manager->createSoundSource("inflate");//Extraordinary. Usually sounds are set in Powerup::set()
+            //In this case this is a workaround, since the bubblegum item has two different sounds.
 
-        pos.setY(hit_point.getY()-0.05f);
+            Powerup::adjustSound();
+            m_sound_use->play();
 
-        ItemManager::get()->newItem(Item::ITEM_BUBBLEGUM, pos, normal, m_owner);
-        }
+        }   // end of PowerupManager::POWERUP_BUBBLEGUM
         break;
 
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_ANVIL:
-
         //Attach an anvil(twice as good as the one given
         //by the bananas) to the kart in the 1st position.
         for(unsigned int i = 0 ; i < world->getNumKarts(); ++i)
@@ -351,6 +366,12 @@ void Powerup::use()
             {
                 AbstractKart *kart=world->getKart(i);
                 if(kart->isEliminated() || kart== m_owner) continue;
+                if(kart->isShielded())
+                {
+                    kart->decreaseShieldTime(stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time);
+                    Log::verbose("Powerup", "Decreasing shield \n");
+                    continue;
+                }
                 if(m_owner->getPosition() > kart->getPosition())
                 {
                     kart->getAttachment()
diff --git a/src/items/powerup.hpp b/src/items/powerup.hpp
index 973f41185..4d76dad48 100644
--- a/src/items/powerup.hpp
+++ b/src/items/powerup.hpp
@@ -56,8 +56,9 @@ public:
     void            set          (PowerupManager::PowerupType _type, int n=1);
     void            reset        ();
     Material*       getIcon      () const;
+    void            adjustSound ();
     void            use          ();
-    void            hitBonusBox  (const Item &item, int newC=-1);
+    void            hitBonusBox (const Item &item, int newC=-1);
 
     /** Returns the number of powerups. */
     int             getNum       () const {return m_number;}
diff --git a/src/items/rubber_ball.cpp b/src/items/rubber_ball.cpp
index 35361ae29..8d133d12c 100644
--- a/src/items/rubber_ball.cpp
+++ b/src/items/rubber_ball.cpp
@@ -20,6 +20,7 @@
 
 #include "audio/sfx_base.hpp"
 #include "audio/sfx_manager.hpp"
+#include "config/stk_config.hpp"
 #include "items/attachment.hpp"
 #include "items/projectile_manager.hpp"
 #include "karts/abstract_kart.hpp"
@@ -28,6 +29,8 @@
 #include "physics/triangle_mesh.hpp"
 #include "tracks/track.hpp"
 
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
+
 float RubberBall::m_st_interval;
 float RubberBall::m_st_min_interpolation_distance;
 float RubberBall::m_st_squash_duration;
@@ -717,6 +720,21 @@ bool RubberBall::hit(AbstractKart* kart, PhysicalObject* object)
     }
     bool was_real_hit = Flyable::hit(kart, object);
     if(was_real_hit)
-        explode(kart, object);
+    {
+        /*if(kart && kart->isShielded() && kart->getShieldTime() > stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time )
+        {   //remove twice the default shield time
+            kart->decreaseShieldTime(stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time * 2);
+            Log::verbose("rubber_ball", "Decreasing shield 1! \n");
+        }
+        else */if(kart && kart->isShielded())
+        {
+            kart->decreaseShieldTime(stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time);
+            //kart->getAttachment()->update(0.0f);
+            //kart->setSquash(m_st_squash_duration, m_st_squash_slowdown);
+            Log::verbose("rubber_ball", "Decreasing shield 2! \n");
+        }
+        else
+            explode(kart, object);
+    }
     return was_real_hit;
 }   // hit
diff --git a/src/items/rubber_band.cpp b/src/items/rubber_band.cpp
index dd944f638..a049e89ba 100644
--- a/src/items/rubber_band.cpp
+++ b/src/items/rubber_band.cpp
@@ -32,6 +32,8 @@
 #include "race/race_manager.hpp"
 #include "utils/string_utils.hpp"
 
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
+
 #include <IMesh.h>
 
 const wchar_t* getPlungerString()
@@ -135,7 +137,7 @@ void RubberBand::updatePosition()
  */
 void RubberBand::update(float dt)
 {
-    if(m_owner->isEliminated())
+    if(m_owner->isEliminated() || m_owner->isShielded())
     {
         // Rubber band snaps
         m_plunger->hit(NULL);
@@ -238,10 +240,20 @@ void RubberBand::hit(AbstractKart *kart_hit, const Vec3 *track_xyz)
     // a hit as well as the bullet physics.
     if(m_attached_state!=RB_TO_PLUNGER) return;
 
+
     // A kart was hit
     // ==============
     if(kart_hit)
     {
+        if(kart_hit->isShielded())
+        {
+            kart_hit->decreaseShieldTime(0.0f); //Decreasing the shield time by the default value.
+            m_plunger->setKeepAlive(0.0f);
+            Log::verbose("rubber_band", "Decreasing shield! \n");
+
+            return;
+        }
+
         m_hit_kart       = kart_hit;
         m_attached_state = RB_TO_KART;
 
diff --git a/src/karts/abstract_kart.hpp b/src/karts/abstract_kart.hpp
index 7a8fed94f..ef8cfb602 100644
--- a/src/karts/abstract_kart.hpp
+++ b/src/karts/abstract_kart.hpp
@@ -378,6 +378,18 @@ public:
     // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
     virtual void setInvulnerableTime(float t) = 0;
     // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    /** Returns if the kart is protected by a shield. */
+    virtual bool isShielded() const = 0;
+    // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    virtual void setShieldTime(float t) = 0;
+    // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    virtual float getShieldTime() const = 0;
+    // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    /** Decreases the kart's shield time. */
+    //Hard coded shield decrease time
+    virtual void decreaseShieldTime(float t) = 0;
+    // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
     /** Shows the star effect for a certain time. */
     virtual void showStarEffect(float t) = 0;
     // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
@@ -403,6 +415,9 @@ public:
     /** Set a text that is displayed on top of a kart.
      */
     virtual void setOnScreenText(const wchar_t *text) = 0;
+    /** Whether an unused bubble gum shield becomes a bubble gum on the ground.
+     * */
+    bool         m_bubble_drop;
 };   // AbstractKart
 
 
diff --git a/src/karts/controller/skidding_ai.cpp b/src/karts/controller/skidding_ai.cpp
index ef3158c93..b9b6f9897 100644
--- a/src/karts/controller/skidding_ai.cpp
+++ b/src/karts/controller/skidding_ai.cpp
@@ -1149,6 +1149,10 @@ void SkiddingAI::evaluateItems(const Item *item, float kart_aim_angle,
  *  better job on higher level AI - e.g. aiming at karts ahead/behind, wait an
  *  appropriate time before using multiple items etc.
  *  \param dt Time step size.
+ *  TODO: Implications of Bubble-Shield for AI's powerup-handling
+
+ *  STATE: shield on -> avoid usage of offensive items (with certain tolerance)
+ *  STATE: swatter on -> avoid usage of shield
  */
 void SkiddingAI::handleItems(const float dt)
 {
@@ -1192,11 +1196,13 @@ void SkiddingAI::handleItems(const float dt)
 
     // Tactic 2: calculate
     // -------------------
+    float min_bubble_time = 2.0f;
+
     switch( m_kart->getPowerup()->getType() )
     {
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_BUBBLEGUM:
         // Avoid dropping all bubble gums one after another
-        if( m_time_since_last_shot <3.0f) break;
+        if( m_time_since_last_shot < 3.0f) break;
 
         // Either use the bubble gum after 10 seconds, or if the next kart
         // behind is 'close' but not too close (too close likely means that the
@@ -1205,16 +1211,30 @@ void SkiddingAI::handleItems(const float dt)
         // kart as well? I.e. only drop if the kart behind is faster? Otoh
         // this approach helps preventing an overtaken kart to overtake us
         // again.
+        m_controls->m_look_back = true; //handle traditinal usage as bubble gum
         m_controls->m_fire = (m_distance_behind < 15.0f &&
-                              m_distance_behind > 3.0f    );
+                              m_distance_behind > 3.0f    );//TODO: is this criteria sufficient to hit another kart with a high probability
+
+        m_controls->m_look_back = false;
+        //Do not use a shield, when you still have a swatter
+        if (m_kart->getAttachment()->getType() == Attachment::ATTACH_SWATTER  || m_kart->getAttachment()->getType() == Attachment::ATTACH_NOLOKS_SWATTER)
+            break;
+        //else there are no objections not to use a shield
+        m_controls->m_fire = true;
+
         break;   // POWERUP_BUBBLEGUM
 
     // All the thrown/fired items might be improved by considering the angle
     // towards m_kart_ahead.
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_CAKE:
         {
+            // Do not destroy your own shield
+            if(m_kart->getShieldTime() > min_bubble_time) // if the kart has a shield, do not break it by using a swatter.
+                break;
             // Leave some time between shots
             if(m_time_since_last_shot<3.0f) break;
+            //TODO: do not fire if the kart is driving too slow
+
             // Since cakes can be fired all around, just use a sane distance
             // with a bit of extra for backwards, as enemy will go towards cake
             bool fire_backwards = (m_kart_behind && m_kart_ahead &&
@@ -1231,6 +1251,9 @@ void SkiddingAI::handleItems(const float dt)
 
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_BOWLING:
         {
+            // Do not destroy your own shield
+            if(m_kart->getShieldTime() > min_bubble_time) // if the kart has a shield, do not break it by using a swatter.
+                break;
             // Leave more time between bowling balls, since they are
             // slower, so it should take longer to hit something which
             // can result in changing our target.
@@ -1258,6 +1281,10 @@ void SkiddingAI::handleItems(const float dt)
 
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_PLUNGER:
         {
+            // Do not destroy your own shield
+            if(m_kart->getShieldTime() > min_bubble_time) // if the kart has a shield, do not break it by using a swatter.
+                break;
+
             // Leave more time after a plunger, since it will take some
             // time before a plunger effect becomes obvious.
             if(m_time_since_last_shot < 5.0f) break;
@@ -1311,6 +1338,9 @@ void SkiddingAI::handleItems(const float dt)
         {
             // Squared distance for which the swatter works
             float d2 = m_kart->getKartProperties()->getSwatterDistance2();
+            // if the kart has a shield, do not break it by using a swatter.
+            if(m_kart->getShieldTime() > min_bubble_time)
+                break;
             // Fire if the closest kart ahead or to the back is not already
             // squashed and close enough.
             // FIXME: this can be improved on, since more than one kart might
@@ -1325,6 +1355,9 @@ void SkiddingAI::handleItems(const float dt)
             break;
         }
     case PowerupManager::POWERUP_RUBBERBALL:
+        // Do not destroy your own shield
+        if(m_kart->getShieldTime() > min_bubble_time) // if the kart has a shield, do not break it by using a swatter.
+            break;
         // Perhaps some more sophisticated algorithm might be useful.
         // For now: fire if there is a kart ahead (which means that
         // this kart is certainly not the first kart)
diff --git a/src/karts/explosion_animation.cpp b/src/karts/explosion_animation.cpp
index d017e50d3..e5236ecc3 100644
--- a/src/karts/explosion_animation.cpp
+++ b/src/karts/explosion_animation.cpp
@@ -24,6 +24,7 @@
 #include "karts/kart_properties.hpp"
 #include "modes/world.hpp"
 #include "tracks/track.hpp"
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
 
 /** A static create function that does only create an explosion if
  *  the explosion happens to be close enough to affect the kart.
@@ -37,7 +38,12 @@ ExplosionAnimation *ExplosionAnimation::create(AbstractKart *kart,
                                                bool direct_hit)
 {
     if(kart->isInvulnerable()) return NULL;
-
+    /*else if(kart->isShielded() && !direct_hit) //How can I test this code ??
+    {
+        kart->decreaseShieldTime(0.0f); //Decreasing the shield time by the default value.
+        Log::verbose("ExlosionAnimation", "Decreasing shield \n");
+        return NULL;
+    }*/
     float r = kart->getKartProperties()->getExplosionRadius();
 
     // Ignore explosion that are too far away.
@@ -53,6 +59,12 @@ ExplosionAnimation *ExplosionAnimation::create(AbstractKart *kart,
 ExplosionAnimation *ExplosionAnimation::create(AbstractKart *kart)
 {
     if(kart->isInvulnerable()) return NULL;
+    else if(kart->isShielded())
+    {
+        kart->decreaseShieldTime(0.0f) ; //decreasing the shieldtime by the default amount
+        Log::verbose("ExplosionAnimation", "Decreasing shield 2\n");
+        return NULL;
+    }
     return new ExplosionAnimation(kart, kart->getXYZ(), /*direct hit*/true);
 }   // create
 
diff --git a/src/karts/kart.cpp b/src/karts/kart.cpp
index aa2c9b0dd..1003871d7 100644
--- a/src/karts/kart.cpp
+++ b/src/karts/kart.cpp
@@ -32,6 +32,7 @@
 #include "challenges/unlock_manager.hpp"
 #include "config/user_config.hpp"
 #include "graphics/camera.hpp"
+#include "graphics/explosion.hpp"
 #include "graphics/material_manager.hpp"
 #include "graphics/particle_emitter.hpp"
 #include "graphics/particle_kind.hpp"
@@ -67,8 +68,9 @@
 #include "tracks/track.hpp"
 #include "tracks/track_manager.hpp"
 #include "utils/constants.hpp"
+#include "utils/log.hpp" //TODO: remove after debugging is done
+
 
-#include "graphics/explosion.hpp"
 
 #if defined(WIN32) && !defined(__CYGWIN__)  && !defined(__MINGW32__)
    // Disable warning for using 'this' in base member initializer list
@@ -511,7 +513,23 @@ void Kart::setPosition(int p)
 }   // setPosition
 
 // -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+/** Sets that the view is blocked by a plunger. The duration depends on
+ *  the difficulty, see KartPorperties getPlungerInFaceTime.
+ */
+void Kart::blockViewWithPlunger()
+{
+    // Avoid that a plunger extends the plunger time
+    if(m_view_blocked_by_plunger<=0 && !isShielded())
+        m_view_blocked_by_plunger =
+                               m_kart_properties->getPlungerInFaceTime();
+    if(isShielded())
+    {
+        decreaseShieldTime(0.0f); //decrease the default amount of time
+        Log::verbose("Kart", "Decreasing shield, because of removing the plunger. \n");
+    }
+}   // blockViewWithPlunger
 
+// -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 /** Returns a transform that will align an object with the kart: the heading
  *  and the pitch will be set appropriately. A custom pitch value can be
  *  specified in order to overwrite the terrain pitch (which would be used
@@ -942,6 +960,67 @@ bool Kart::isNearGround() const
                  < stk_config->m_near_ground);
 }   // isNearGround
 
+// ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+/**
+ * Enables a kart shield protection for a certain amount of time.
+ */
+void Kart::setShieldTime(float t)
+{
+    if(this->isShielded())
+    {
+        this->getAttachment()->setTimeLeft(t);
+    }
+}
+// ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+/**
+ * Returns true if the kart is protected by a shield.
+ */
+bool Kart::isShielded() const
+{
+    if(getAttachment() != NULL)
+        return getAttachment()->getType() == Attachment::ATTACH_BUBBLEGUM_SHIELD;
+    else
+        return false;
+}
+// ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+/**
+ *Returns the remaining time the kart is protected by a shield.
+ */
+float Kart::getShieldTime() const
+{
+    if(isShielded())
+        return getAttachment()->getTimeLeft();
+    else
+        return 0.0f;
+}
+// ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+/**
+ * Decreases the kart's shield time.
+ * \param t The time substracted from the shield timer. If t == 0.0f, the default amout of time is substracted.
+ */
+void Kart::decreaseShieldTime(float t)
+{
+    if(this->isShielded())
+    {
+        getAttachment()->setTimeLeft( getAttachment()->getTimeLeft() - t );
+        if(t == 0.0f)
+        {
+            getAttachment()->setTimeLeft( getAttachment()->getTimeLeft()
+                                          - stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time);
+        }
+
+    }
+    //Let the kart drop a bubble gum, if the shield was not damaged.
+    //This is the default, whenever a powerup is used by a kart.
+    //It is turned off, if the shield was reduced below zero by a hit. (Or by intently damaging the shield.)
+    if(!this->isShielded())
+        m_bubble_drop = false;
+
+}
+
+
+
+
 //-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 /** Shows the star effect for a certain time.
  *  \param t Time to show the star effect for.
@@ -1009,7 +1088,9 @@ void Kart::update(float dt)
 
     // if its view is blocked by plunger, decrease remaining time
     if(m_view_blocked_by_plunger > 0) m_view_blocked_by_plunger -= dt;
-
+    //unblock the view if kart just became shielded
+    if(isShielded())
+        m_view_blocked_by_plunger = 0.0f;
     // Decrease remaining invulnerability time
     if(m_invulnerable_time>0)
     {
@@ -1085,6 +1166,7 @@ void Kart::update(float dt)
         // since use() can test if something needs to be switched on/off.
         m_powerup->use() ;
         World::getWorld()->onFirePressed(getController());
+        m_bubble_drop = true;
     }
     // Reset the fire button
     m_controls.m_fire = 0;
@@ -1268,6 +1350,13 @@ void Kart::setSquash(float time, float slowdown)
 {
     if (isInvulnerable()) return;
 
+    if (isShielded())
+    {
+        decreaseShieldTime(stk_config->m_bubblegum_shield_time/2.0f);
+        Log::verbose("Kart", "Decreasing shield \n");
+        return;
+    }
+
     if(m_attachment->getType()==Attachment::ATTACH_BOMB && time>0)
     {
         ExplosionAnimation::create(this);
diff --git a/src/karts/kart.hpp b/src/karts/kart.hpp
index b5aab0ff4..e81a14708 100644
--- a/src/karts/kart.hpp
+++ b/src/karts/kart.hpp
@@ -136,6 +136,8 @@ private:
     /** The torque to apply after hitting a bubble gum. */
     float        m_bubblegum_torque;
 
+
+
     // Bullet physics parameters
     // -------------------------
     btCompoundShape          m_kart_chassis;
@@ -310,13 +312,7 @@ public:
     // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
     /** Sets that the view is blocked by a plunger. The duration depends on
      *  the difficulty, see KartPorperties getPlungerInFaceTime. */
-    virtual void   blockViewWithPlunger()
-    {
-        // Avoid that a plunger extends the plunger time
-        if(m_view_blocked_by_plunger<=0)
-            m_view_blocked_by_plunger =
-                                   m_kart_properties->getPlungerInFaceTime();
-    }   // blockViewWithPlunger
+    virtual void   blockViewWithPlunger();
     // -------------------------------------------------------------------------
     /** Returns a bullet transform object located at the kart's position
         and oriented in the direction the kart is going. Can be useful
@@ -395,11 +391,25 @@ public:
     virtual void eliminate();
     // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
     /** Makes a kart invulnerable for a certain amount of time. */
-    virtual void  setInvulnerableTime(float t) { m_invulnerable_time = t; };
+    virtual void  setInvulnerableTime(float t) { m_invulnerable_time = t; }
     // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
     /** Returns if the kart is invulnerable. */
     virtual bool   isInvulnerable() const { return m_invulnerable_time > 0; }
     // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    /** Enables a kart shield protection for a certain amount of time. */
+    virtual void setShieldTime(float t);
+    // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    /** Returns if the kart is protected by a shield. */
+    virtual bool isShielded() const;
+    // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    /** Returns the remaining time the kart is protected by a shield. */
+    virtual float getShieldTime() const;
+    // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    /** Decreases the kart's shield time. */
+    //If t = 0.0f: decrease shield time by the default amount.
+    virtual void decreaseShieldTime(float t);
+    // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
     /** Sets the energy the kart has collected. */
     virtual void   setEnergy(float val) { m_collected_energy = val; }
     // ------------------------------------------------------------------------
diff --git a/src/karts/kart_with_stats.cpp b/src/karts/kart_with_stats.cpp
index bcbe36817..d1620119b 100644
--- a/src/karts/kart_with_stats.cpp
+++ b/src/karts/kart_with_stats.cpp
@@ -76,7 +76,7 @@ void KartWithStats::update(float dt)
  */
 void KartWithStats::setKartAnimation(AbstractKartAnimation *ka)
 {
-    bool is_new = !getKartAnimation() && !isInvulnerable();
+    bool is_new = !getKartAnimation() && !isInvulnerable() && !isShielded();
     Kart::setKartAnimation(ka);
     // Nothing to count if it's not a new animation
     if(!is_new) return;
diff --git a/src/physics/physics.cpp b/src/physics/physics.cpp
index eaaeee67d..3dec3c305 100644
--- a/src/physics/physics.cpp
+++ b/src/physics/physics.cpp
@@ -223,11 +223,15 @@ void Physics::update(float dt)
             // --------------------
             // Only explode a bowling ball if the target is
             // not invulnerable
+            AbstractKart* target_kart = p->getUserPointer(1)->getPointerKart();
             if(p->getUserPointer(0)->getPointerFlyable()->getType()
-                !=PowerupManager::POWERUP_BOWLING                         ||
-                !p->getUserPointer(1)->getPointerKart()->isInvulnerable()   )
+                !=PowerupManager::POWERUP_BOWLING ||
+                !target_kart->isInvulnerable()      )
+            {
                     p->getUserPointer(0)->getPointerFlyable()
-                     ->hit(p->getUserPointer(1)->getPointerKart());
+                     ->hit(target_kart);
+            }
+
         }
         else
         {