As we all have different needs, there's no such thing as the "best" bulletproof vest, but rather a range of vests adapted to your own specific use. The problem with body armor is that its market is strictly regulated, with some vests available to civilians, others not.
That said, over the past few years, civilians have been buying more and more bulletproof vests; the fault of a society where exponentially growing threats can arise anywhere, at any time.
So how do you choose the right model? What are the differences between soft and hard protectors? Which ballistic standards should I choose? And above all, is there a model that combines safety, comfort, aesthetics and versatility?
FLUX brings you this guide with a focus on VEST PARIS' V007 bulletproof technical vest and its exclusive hybrid technology.
The basics you need to know
Body armor is classified according to ballistic standards. The two main ones are the American NIJ (National Institute of Justice) standard and the European VPAM standard. These classifications are used to determine the level of protection:
NIJ IIA, II, IIIA: against handguns (9 mm to 44 Magnum)
NIJ III, IV: against assault rifles (7.62 mm, 5.56 mm, etc.) - often require rigid plates
VPAM 1 to 14: European standard covering a wider range of scenarios, widely used in Germany and Switzerland.
For urban civilian use, NIJ IIIA or VPAM 3 to 5 protection is often sufficient, as it covers the most common threats: handguns and edged weapons.
The 3 types of vest
Soft body armor
These vests are accessible to civilians and are ideal for urban environments.
Flexible ballistic vests are made of superimposed layers of aramid fibers like Dupont Kevlar or Twaron, or high-density polyethylene like Honeywell or Dyneema. At VEST, we use all 3 materials. Their purpose is to stop the kinetic energy of a handgun projectile or absorb the impact of a knife. Lightweight (often between 1.5kg and 3kg), they can be worn under a shirt, sweater or blazer without arousing the slightest suspicion.
This discretion is their greatest asset, especially for plainclothes agents, journalists or high-risk executives operating in sensitive areas. However, their limitations are clear: these protectors are not designed to stop high-velocity projectiles, such as those from assault rifles. They offer typical NIJ Level IIIA protection, i.e. effective against most handguns (9 mm, 357 Magnum and 44 Magnum).
Rigid bullet-proof vests, the ultimate barrier
Rigid vests are not accessible to civilians. They are reserved for situations involving direct armed confrontation, such as tactical interventions, close protection in red zones, or military missions. You won't be able to buy this type of body armor at VEST or anywhere else, as it requires military approval and is issued under strict conditions.
These bulletproof vests incorporate hard ballistic plates made of ceramic (pictured), steel or compressed high-density polyethylene. These plates are inserted into special pockets on the front and back of the vest.
Their effectiveness is formidable: they can stop war rifle projectiles (such as the 7.62 mm, 5.56 mm NATO or 30-06), including those with armor-piercing cores. This is the only equipment offering NIJ level III or IV protection.
However, this sturdiness comes at a price: high weight (up to 8 kg per unit), reduced mobility and a highly visible profile, difficult to conceal under civilian clothing.
Hybrid vests, the new generation
For civilians, this is the most promising segment. A hybrid ballistic is a blend of different materials, such as aramid and polyethylene, to obtain the best of the 2 solutions used. This makes for a unique product in terms of flexibility, ballistic performance and weight. This is exactly what Protecop, VEST's supplier, has developed.
Following the example of the V007 bulletproof technical vest, ballistic protection can now be integrated into technical clothing with an urban design, so that the wearer is protected while remaining perfectly anonymous.
Today, these hybrid vests represent the best compromise between safety, portability and style. They meet the needs of a new generation of users: exposed executives, influencers on the move, journalists, international entrepreneurs, or even vigilant citizens wishing to protect themselves without weighing down their daily lives.
Ballistic technical clothing, a new frontier in urban safety
Classic bullet-proof vests are giving way to a new generation of more elegant technical garments, such as the V007 bullet-proof vest, designed for everyday civilian use. New-generation ballistic fashion, pioneered by VEST and Caballero worldwide, is establishing itself as a segment for the future.
V007 from VEST, bulletproof protection and elegance
The V007 jacket, VEST PARIS' flagship model, is not a bulletproof vest in the conventional sense of the term. It's a technical urban garment with a sober, meticulous design, incorporating hybrid ballistic technology from Protecop. As mentioned above, this hybrid ballistic protection is composed of both Kevlar and Spectra.
Such protection allows the user to be protected without ever appearing armed, in an environment where safety must not come at the expense of style or freedom of movement
Protection: level IIIA (against handguns), possibility of adding a removable rigid plate
Look: sober jacket, slim fit, wearable for business meetings or restaurants
Comfort: breathable, water-repellent, windproof membrane - ideal for all seasons
Versatility: adaptable to all urban lifestyles
Other models on the market?
Blauer Tactical Armor
The American brand offers ballistic clothing for undercover police officers. The jackets are discreet, but aimed at operational rather than lifestyle use.
SafeGuard Armor
Highly technical, with a wide range of soft and rigid vests, but little in the way of design or long-lasting comfort.
PGD (Protection Group Denmark)
Danish manufacturer, renowned for its rigid plates and high-performance tactical vests. Suitable for security personnel, but not very discreet.
MC Armor (Colombia)
The brand specializes in elegant ballistic clothing, particularly for Latin American VIPs. Good alternative, but limited distribution in Europe.
How to choose the right ballistic garment?
1-Level of protection adapted to the threat
2-Prolonged wearing comfort
3-Wearing discretion (under or over clothing)
4-Easy maintenance
5-Polyvalence of use (work, commuting, travel)
6-Material certification
7-Compliance with European or NIJ standards
What should we remember?
For a citizen concerned about safety without compromising his appearance, a technical garment like the V007 jacket from VEST has established itself as one of the most innovative solutions on the market: discreet, comfortable, protective, and ready to cope with all everyday situations. But as we said in the preamble, the The perfect vest is the one that's right for the job.
The best protection is the one you actually wear. And for this, the fusion of safety and design is now the new standard.