Different Types of Protective Vests
Explore the various types of protective vests, including soft and hard armor options. Learn about their materials, protective capabilities, and the best choices for different threat levels to ensure maximum safety in any situation.
Varieties of Protective Vests
Protective vests are crucial safety gear available in two main categories: soft and hard armor. While both serve to safeguard the wearer, their applications vary based on threat levels and situations. Discover the different options of protective vests below.
Soft Armor Vests
These lightweight, comfortable vests are commonly worn by law enforcement personnel. They are crafted from durable materials like Kevlar, capable of absorbing and dispersing the impact of bullets and stabbing threats. Soft armor vests are often integrated into inserts that can be added to carriers, bags, or layered with other plates to enhance protection.
Hard armor vests typically include rigid plates housed within a vest or plate carrier. These plates are manufactured from materials like ceramics, steel, or high-density polymers, offering increased protection against more dangerous threats. Although less flexible and more conspicuous, hard armor provides superior defense and is available in various threat levels to suit specific needs.
Top-rated protective vests on the market Selection of the appropriate vest depends on threat level and material quality. Here are some notable options:
Ceramic Plates
Designed for high-threat situations, ceramic armor can stop powerful projectiles such as M193 and armor-piercing M2AP rounds. It’s among the most costly options, exceeding USD 200, and tends to be bulkier. Despite its weight, ceramic armor is lighter than metals and usually rated Level IV. However, it may need replacement if dropped or subjected to impact, as it’s less durable over time.
AR500 Steel Plate Armor
An affordable and durable solution, AR500 steel plates cost roughly USD 140–USD 200 for a set. Weighing over eight pounds each, this steel armor offers solid protection against most handgun rounds. Known for its toughness, AR500 retains its integrity for years when stored properly. However, it may not prevent high-velocity rounds like the 5.56 M193, which can pass through Level 3 armor.
