As we all have different needs, there is no “best” bulletproof vest but vests adapted to your own use. The problem with bulletproof vests is that their market is strictly regulated, some vests being accessible to civilians, others not.
That being said, in recent years civilians have been buying bulletproof vests more and more; the fault of 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 rigid protectors? Which ballistic standards should be preferred? And above all, is there a model that combines safety, comfort, aesthetics and versatility?
We offers you this guide with a focus on technical jackets V007 bulletproof by 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 make it possible to determine the level of protection:
NIJ IIA, II, IIIA : against handguns (from 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 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 frequent threats: handguns and bladed weapons.
The 3 types of vests
Soft bulletproof vests
These vests are accessible to civilians and are ideal in urban areas.
Soft ballistic vests consist of superimposed layers of aramid fibers such as Kevlar from Dupont or Twaron, or of high-density polyethylene offered by Honeywell or Dyneema. At VEST we use these 3 materials. Their objective is to stop the kinetic energy of a handgun projectile or absorb a stab impact. Light (often between 1.5 kg and 3 kg), they can be worn under a shirt, sweater or blazer without arousing the slightest suspicion.
This discretion is their greatest asset, especially for civilian agents, journalists or high-risk managers working in sensitive areas. However, their limit is clear: these protections are not designed to stop high-velocity projectiles, such as those from assault rifles. They offer typical level IIIA protection according to the NIJ standard, i.e. effective against most handguns (9 mm, 357 Magnum and 44 Magnum).
Rigid bulletproof vests, the ultimate barrier
Rigid vests, on the other hand, are not accessible to civilians. They are reserved for situations of direct armed confrontation such as tactical interventions, close protection in a red zone, or military missions. At VEST or elsewhere you will not be able to buy this type of bulletproof vest, you need military approval and its delivery is very supervised.
These bulletproof vests incorporate hard ballistic plates made of ceramic (pictured), steel or compressed high-density polyethylene. These plates are inserted into pockets provided for this purpose at the front and at the back of the carrying vest.
Their effectiveness is formidable: they make it possible to stop projectiles from rifles of war (such as the 7.62 mm, the 5.56 mm NATO or the 30-06), including those with piercing cores. These are the only pieces of equipment that offer NIJ III or IV level protection.
However, this robustness comes at a price: high weight (up to 8 kg overall), reduced mobility and a highly visible profile that is difficult to hide under civilian clothing.
Hybrid vests, the new generation
For civilians, this is the most promising segment. Hybrid ballistics is a mixture of different materials such as aramid and polyethylene in order to obtain the best of the 2 solutions used. This makes it a unique product in terms of flexibility, ballistic performance and weight. That is exactly what has developed Protecop, the supplier of VEST.
Like the V007 bulletproof technical jacket, we can now integrate genuine ballistic protection into technical clothing with urban design so that the user is protected while remaining completely 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 managers, influencers on the go, journalists, international entrepreneurs, or even vigilant citizens who want to protect themselves without burdening 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 vest, designed for everyday civilian use. New-generation ballistic fashion, of which VEST and Caballero are pioneer brands in the world, is emerging as a segment of the future.
V007 by VEST, bulletproof protection and elegance
The V007 jacket, VEST PARIS' flagship model, is not a bulletproof vest in the classical sense of the word. It is an urban technical garment with a sober and careful design, integrating hybrid ballistic technology signed Protecop. This hybrid ballistic protection, as mentioned above, is composed of both Kevlar and Spectra.
Such protection allows the user to be protected without ever appearing armed, in an environment where safety 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, suitable for a professional appointment or at the restaurant
Comfort : breathable, water-repellent, windproof membrane — ideal in any season
Versatility : it adapts to all urban lifestyles
The other models on the market?
Blauer tactical armor
The American brand offers ballistic clothing for plainclothes police officers. The jackets are discreet but aimed at operational use rather than lifestyle.
SafeGuard armor
Very technical, with a wide range of soft or rigid vests, but not very design-oriented 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 stylish ballistic clothing, especially for Latin American VIPs. Good alternative, but limited distribution in Europe.
What are the criteria for choosing the right ballistic garment?
1-Level of protection adapted to the threat
2-Extended wear comfort
3-Discretion of the port (under or on clothes)
4-Ease of maintenance
5-Versatility in uses (work, travel, travel)
6-Material certification
7-Compliance with European or NIJ standards
What should we remember?
For a citizen who cares about their safety without compromising their appearance, technical clothing like the V007 jacket by VEST stands out as one of the most innovative solutions on the market: discreet, comfortable, protective, and ready to face all daily situations. But as was said in the preamble, the perfect vest is the one that is adapted to your use.
The best protection is the one you will actually wear. And for that, the fusion between safety and design is now the new norm.
