This publication is focused on comparing two different material hardening models i.e. purely isotropic and a mixed kinematic hardening model for the simulation of forming operations. The influence of nonlinear strain paths is investigated using deep drawing and strip tensile bending experiments and their comparison with numerical simulations. This comparison enables us to determine which of the two material models is more accurate for forming operations. Subsequently, the complex nonlinear strain paths are analyzed using an analytical indicator developed at the Chair of Forming and Machining Process, TU Dresden [1], to predict the influence of kinematic hardening by comparing the experimental results with a combined material hardening model as well as a purely isotropic material model. The analytical indicator illustrates the regions in deformed samples that are most affected by kinematic hardening and shows the difference in target values as a result of mixed and purely isotropic hardening law.