Here, every article is written by those who believe that bulletproof and stab-proof vests can be reinvented: welcome to VEST PARIS , where elegance, safety and innovation discreetly meet.
Since we all have different needs, there is no such thing as the "best" bulletproof vest, but vests tailored to your specific needs. The problem with bulletproof vests is that their market is strictly regulated, with some vests available to civilians, while others are not.
That being said, in recent years civilians have been buying more and more bulletproof vests; the fault lies in a society where exponentially growing threats can arise anywhere and at any time.
So how do you choose the right model? What are the differences between soft and hard protection? Which ballistic standards should you choose? And above all, is there a model that combines safety, comfort, aesthetics, and versatility?
We offer you this guide with a focus on the V007 technical bulletproof jacket from VEST PARIS and its exclusive hybrid technology.
The basics you need to know
Bulletproof vests are 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 determine the level of protection:
NIJ IIA, II, IIIA : against handguns (from 9 mm to 44 Magnum)
NIJ III, IV : against assault rifles (7.62mm, 5.56mm, etc.) – often require hard plates
VPAM 1 to 14 : European standard covering more varied 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 bladed weapons.
The 3 types of vests
Soft bulletproof vests
These vests are accessible to civilians and are ideal in urban environments.
Soft ballistic vests are made of overlapping layers of aramid fibers like Dupont Kevlar or Twaron, or high-density polyethylene from Honeywell or Dyneema. At VEST, we use all three materials. Their purpose is to stop the kinetic energy of a handgun projectile or absorb the impact of a bladed weapon. Lightweight (often between 1.5 kg and 3 kg), they can be worn under a shirt, sweater, or blazer without arousing suspicion.
This discretion is their greatest asset, especially for plainclothes officers, journalists, or high-risk executives operating in sensitive areas. However, their limitation is 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 bulletproof vests, the ultimate barrier
Rigid vests are not available to civilians. are reserved for situations of direct armed confrontation such as tactical interventions, close protection in red zones, or military missions. At VEST or elsewhere you will not be able to buy this type of bulletproof vest, military approval is required and its issuance is very regulated.
These bulletproof vests incorporate hard ballistic plates made of ceramic (pictured), steel, or compressed high-density polyethylene. These plates are inserted into designated pockets on the front and back of the carrier vest.
Their effectiveness is formidable: they can stop war rifle projectiles (such as the 7.62 mm, the 5.56 mm NATO or the 30-06), including those with armor-piercing cores. They are the only equipment offering NIJ level III or IV protection.
However, this robustness comes at a price: high weight (up to 8 kg in total), reduced mobility and a very 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 both solutions. This makes it a unique product in terms of flexibility, ballistic performance, and weight. This is exactly what Protecop, the supplier of VEST , has developed.
Like the V007 technical bulletproof jacket , we can now integrate real ballistic protection into technical clothing with an urban design so that the user is protected while remaining completely anonymous.
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, and vigilant citizens looking to protect themselves without adding to their daily lives.
Ballistic technical clothing, a new frontier in urban security
Classic bulletproof vests are giving way to a new generation of more elegant technical clothing, such as the V007 bulletproof jacket, designed for everyday civilian use. Next-generation ballistic fashion, pioneered worldwide by VEST PARIS and Miguel Caballero, is emerging as a segment of the future.
V007 from VEST , bulletproof protection and elegance
The V007 jacket , VEST PARIS's flagship model, is not a bulletproof vest in the classic sense of the term. It is a technical urban garment with a sober and neat design, incorporating hybrid ballistic technology by Protecop. This hybrid ballistic protection, as we mentioned above, is made of both Kevlar and Spectra.
Such protection allows the user to be protected without ever appearing armed, in an environment where security should not come at the expense of style or freedom of movement
Protection : level IIIA (against handguns), possibility of adding a removable rigid plate
Look : simple jacket, fitted cut, wearable for business meetings or at a restaurant
Comfort : breathable, water-repellent, windproof membrane – ideal for all seasons
Versatility : it adapts to all urban lifestyles
Other models on the market?
Blauer Tactical Armor
The American brand offers ballistic clothing for plainclothes police officers. The jackets are discreet but are intended for operational use rather than lifestyle.
SafeGuard Armor
Very technical, with a wide range of soft or rigid vests, but not very oriented towards design or long-term comfort.
PGD (Protection Group Denmark)
Danish manufacturer renowned for its high-performance hard plates and tactical vests. Suitable for security personnel, but not very discreet.
MC Armor (Colombia)
The brand specializes in stylish ballistic clothing, particularly for Latin American VIPs. A good alternative, but limited distribution in Europe.
What criteria should you use to choose the right ballistic clothing?
1-Level of protection adapted to the threat
2-Extended wearing comfort
3-Discreet wearing (under or over clothing)
4-Ease of maintenance
5-Versatility in uses (work, travel, trips)
6-Certification of materials
7-Compliance with European or NIJ standards
What should we remember?
For a citizen concerned about their safety without compromising their appearance, a technical garment like the V007 jacket from VEST stands out as one of the most innovative solutions on the market: discreet, comfortable, protective, and ready to face all everyday situations. But as mentioned in the preamble, the The perfect vest is the one that is suitable for your use.
The best protection is the one you actually wear. And for that, the fusion of safety and design is now the new standard.