12 best plate carrier vests
Plate carrier vests are a type of tactical gear primarily used in military, law enforcement, airsoft, and paintball activities. They fall under the category of tactical vests and are associated with sports, fitness, and outdoor activities. Here's what you should know about plate carrier vests:
Purpose: Plate carrier vests are designed to provide protection to the wearer's torso by accommodating ballistic plates. These plates are inserted into pockets on the front and back of the vest to protect against bullets, shrapnel, and other projectiles in high-risk situations.
Materials: Plate carrier vests are typically constructed from durable materials such as nylon, Cordura, or other high-strength fabrics. These materials are chosen for their resistance to wear and tear and their ability to withstand harsh conditions.
Modularity: Many plate carrier vests feature a modular design, allowing users to customize their loadout by attaching pouches, magazine holders, medical kits, and other accessories to MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing. This modularity makes it easy to tailor the vest to specific mission requirements.
Ballistic Protection: The primary function of a plate carrier vest is to provide ballistic protection. While some vests come with soft armor inserts, they are often designed to accommodate hard armor plates made of ceramic, steel, or composite materials. These plates offer varying levels of protection against firearms and projectiles.
Airsoft and Paintball: Plate carrier vests are also popular in airsoft and paintball games, where they serve a dual purpose of protection and aesthetics. Players use dummy plates or foam inserts to mimic the appearance of real armor plates, enhancing the realism of their gear.
Fitness and Training: Some individuals use plate carrier vests for fitness training and workouts, adding weight plates to increase resistance during exercises like running, hiking, or bodyweight workouts. This can help improve strength and endurance.
Adjustability and Comfort: Plate carrier vests often feature adjustable straps and padding to ensure a comfortable fit. Proper fit is crucial for mobility and to prevent fatigue during extended wear.
Camo Patterns and Colors: Plate carrier vests come in various camouflage patterns and colors to match the user's environment and specific needs. This allows wearers to blend in with their surroundings during military operations or airsoft games.
Care and Maintenance: Plate carrier vests should be properly maintained to ensure their longevity.They can usually be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Straps, buckles, and stitching should be inspected regularly for wear and tear.
In summary, plate carrier vests are tactical gear designed to provide ballistic protection to the torso. They are versatile and customizable, making them suitable for various activities, including military use, airsoft, paintball, and fitness training. Properly fitted and maintained plate carrier vests are essential for user safety and comfort during extended use.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best plate carrier vests on the market
CAMO Tactical Outdoor Vest
CAMO
Product description
One size fit the most: S to XXL
User questions & answers
| Question: | I have AR 550 trauma plates 11x14 and 6x8 for sides ,will they fit |
| Answer: | Yes minus the sides. There’s no place for side plates |
| Question: | How well do the side clasp work? And is their adjustmenr in the sides |
| Answer: | There is a little plastic piece with para cord attached to it that you pull away from you and the piece will just slide down. It’s a little hard to explain, but easy once you do it. The sides are adjustable with Velcro on the front. Just make sure when you order plates you will not be able to fit an 11x14 like it says. You will have to order a 10x12. |
| Question: | Does this allow side plates |
| Answer: | Not by design but can be modified. |
| Question: | Where can i get more molle attachement and tank holder with tge same camo |
| Answer: | Amazon, eBay army surplus |
GFIRE Tactical Vest Modular Vest Breathable Combat Training Vest Adjustable Lightweight
GFIRE
Product description
Description：
The Modular Tactical Vest was designed for modular attachments on all sides as well as for functionality and operator mobility.
Specifications ：
-Emergency drag handle
-Removable anti-slip padded shoulder pads with hook and loop guides
-Adjustable shoulder straps
-Hook and loop webbing
-Heavyweight webbing for modular attachments
-Front map pocket with snap, hook and loop closure
- Side release buckles on shoulders and internal waist strap
- Padded mesh interior lining
-Adjustable cummerbund with pockets
-Accepts up to 5.7" x 6.8"
-Easy access pockets
Size：
Medium - X-Large adjustable sizing
Color： Black, Tan, Green
- Tactical vest with Emergency drag handle; Removable anti-slip padded shoulder pads with hook and loop guides.
- Adjustable shoulder straps; Hook and loop webbing. Heavyweight webbing for modular attachments.
- Its' Front map pocket with snap, hook and loop closure; Side release buckles on shoulders and internal waist strap.
- It comes with Padded mesh interior lining; Adjustable cummerbund with pockets; Medium - X-Large adjustable sizing.
- 2-YEAR GUARANTEE. If you have any problem with the tactical vest at all, just contact us. We provide our customers with COST-EFFECTIVE HIGH QUALITY items and offer 2-year quality warranty. Please contact us as we stand behind our products.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this bulletproof |
| Answer: | The vest itself is not bulletproof, however you can put bulletproof inserts in it. |
| Question: | This vest looks great, is it one size fits all |
| Answer: | No. The size of the vest is adjustable from Medium to X- Large, so you need to pay attention to the sizing when you decide to buy it. |
| Question: | Will it fit 10x12 AR500 plates |
| Answer: | Yes it will, but loosely. The plates aren't held up very high in the plate area. Although you can probably add more Velcro on the strap to help hold the plate carrier very snug. |
| Question: | What size plates does this vest hold |
| Answer: | 10x12 and 6x6 sides |
Product features
Size
- The maximum waist is 54 inches.
- Sized from Medium to X- Large, it fits most people and you can choose the size that suits you .
High Quality
- Made of 1000D polyester, lighter and more sturdy, no less than famous American brands. Good American brands don't use 600D polyester, which is cheap and without air circulation.
- The stitches are made of Nylon. The sutures on MOLLE were reinforced, making the vest more solid.
MOLLE Design
- Made of high-grade, high-strength MOLLE. Heavyweight MOLLE loops and webbing for the modular attachments. MOLLE design makes it easy to pick up and retrieve items. With the large MOLLE design, you will be able to carry all the gear you need.
Adjustable shoulder straps-
Removable anti-slip padded shoulder pads with hook and loop guides. The high-quality padded mesh interior lining allows the anti-slip shoulder strap to provide you with maximum comfort.
Storage-
- Front pocket accepts up to 12" x 11"
- Easy access front and side pockets, enough for maps and other tools.
- The internal structure was improved. Other brands only fit one size, and we can fit two sizes.
Adjustable waist straps-
Side release buckles on shoulders and internal waist strap. You can adjust the waist according to your sizing.
VISMIX Tactical Vest Adjustable Molle Military Vest for Men
VISMIX
- [Molle System Compatible] Attaching more pouches or other articles on front or back Molle strap, Carrying up to three M4 magazines in front magazine pouch.
- [Adjustable] Adjustable waist straps size from 36inch to 46inch; Shoulder straps size from 13inch to 26inch.
- [More Features] Hook-and-loop design for DIY your own special tactical vest.
- [Usage] Great for airsoft, paintball, wargame or other outdoor activities.
- [High Quality] Constructed by 500D nylon material, wearable and durable.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this vest be good for AR500 steel plates for training purposes |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | Are the front pouches fit AK mags |
| Answer: | Yes, this vest compatible with MOLLE system. |
| Question: | Does anyone run in this with plates |
| Answer: | Looking for this answer as well. In regards to the other answer, SF guys do not use this knock off vest |
| Question: | I can put my own armored plates in this correct |
| Answer: | Yes, if the size is proper. The size of detachable EVA pad is lenght:32cm/12.59in, Width:26.5cm/10.43in. The top width is 13cm/ 5.12in |
Product features
Tactical Molle Military Vest
Mag Pouches
Carrying up to three magazines in front magazine pouch
Hook&Loop
Hook-and loop design for attaching your favorite stickers.
MOLLE Straps
MOLLE straps for carrying more tactical gears.
vAv YAKEDA Tactical Military Vest Quick Release Airsoft Vest Adjustable for Adults
YAKEDA
- 【HIGH QUALITY】 1000D Nylon,The special structure of the fabric gives it excellent wear resistance, tear resistance, unmatched strength, light weight, softness and easy care.
- 【QUICK REALESE SYSTEM】Shoulder buckle fast transfer,according to the length of the height,easy to wear and take off；Waist tubes technology quick release locking system， achieved lock and release by one hand in momment.
- 【ADJUSTABLE & BREATHABLE】 Padded and reinforced shoulder straps adjustable with 6 inch -8 inch,length:14 inch, wide:12 inch, Waist adjustable with 29"-49" to protect your sides with concealed hook-and-loop utility pockets;Detachable mesh padding for good airflow during game play.
- 【MOLLE Module System】3” by 6” patch panels at the front and back for your name patches and morale patches, MOLLE all around for your pouches, equipment, hydration pack, etc.
- 【MULTIFUNCTION】All of accessories can be disassembled and reorganized,Suitable Tactics, Duty, Military fans, CS game
User questions & answers
| Question: | What size armor plates would be recommend |
| Answer: | It fit 10*12 inch plate. |
| Question: | How do i properly loop the waist adjusment |
| Answer: | you can adjust the waist by the velcro and Elastic rope。 |
| Question: | How many AR 30rd mags can this vest carry in front |
| Answer: | Incorrect , it’ll holdb3 30rnd on chest woth 4.pistol clip pockets in front of the 30’s . Them 3 on each side . Thats 9 30’s and 4 pistol clips |
| Question: | Isn't this a plate carrier as well |
| Answer: | It is a plate carrier. |
Product features
QUICK REALESE SHOULDER BUCKLE
Shoulder buckle fast transfer,according to the length of the height,easy to wear and take off；Waist tubes technology quick release locking system， achieved lock and release by one hand in momment.
SHOULDER ADJUSTMENT
Padded and reinforced shoulder straps can be adjusted quickly.
Fast putting on/Fast taking off.
WAIST TENSION BANDS ADJUSTMENT
Adjustable waist straps and tension bands can be adjusted the size according to the body shape.
WAIST VELCRO ADJUSTMENT
The waist can be adjusted by Velcro,It is more convenient to be equipped with hand drawstring.
WAIST TUBES
Waist tubes technology quick release locking system， achieved lock and release by one hand in momment.
PULL THE PARACORD OUTWARD
Adopt one-way quick release buckle to realize quick ewlease and simple openation.
THEN PULL IT DOWN
RESISTANCE & BREATHABLE
The fabric's special structure givesit excellent wear resistance,tear resistance,fabrics strength good handle with light,soft,stable color for easy care and other characteristics.
BRAND IDENTITY
POUCH FIXED ELASTIC ROPE
VELCRO ID PANEL
DOUBLE COMPARTMENT
OneTigris Multicam Tactical Vest
OneTigris
- 500D Cordura Nylon
- Plenty of molle webbings for attachments
- Adjustable to fit most
- Loop panel for holding patches
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this have plate retention straps inside the carrier to keep steel plates from moving around |
| Answer: | /Duration 0:17Loaded: 0.00%Stream Type LIVESeek to live, currently playing liveLIVERemaining Time -0:17 Playback Rate1xChaptersChaptersDescriptionsdescriptions off, selectedCaptionscaptions off, selectedAudio TrackFullscreenThis is a modal window. .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : none; } .noScriptNotDisplayExpander { display : none; } .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : block; } This is the only plate carrier I own currently, so I am not really familiar with how others may function. The carrier opens at the bottom with a durable velcro strip across the entire opening. There is a small nylon strap that is connected to the inner most flap. Its approx 3"-3 1/2" in length and has a 3/4" loop at its end. |
| Question: | Im 6ft 350 will it fit me |
| Answer: | No I’m 6’4 210 and it’s tiny on me. |
| Question: | Can you put steel plates in this |
| Answer: | Yes, I have 10"x12" curved 8.75 pound plates in both sides |
| Question: | Can you put a plate in the back |
| Answer: | Yes both plate inserts work with medium plates |
Product features
Why Choose OneTigris DOOM Tactical Vest?
This is a vest of ergonomic design and ultimate comfort. It's small and lightweight but has an impressive carrying load. Wear it in the heat and still breathe in comfort and move with agility. Mount tactical pouches with the MOLLE webbing and fill up the storage pockets on the front. Now, it's time to rock and roll.
A Tactical Vest That is Enough Mobility and Packability
Ergonomic Design System —— Hook-and-loop cummerbund & adjustable shoulder strap(13inch-26inch), make it easy to fit for waist from 36inch to 46inch
Offers Ultimate Comfort —— Breathable shoulder padding & soft cummerbund allow moisture to evaporate
MOLLE Attachment Points —— MOLLE system provide you ability to mount tactical pouches on both side of cummerbund
Warm Tips
- Only a tactical vest, anything else is not included
Compatible with MOLLE Mag Pouch
Gray Tactical Gear Tactical Airsoft Outdoor Molle Breathable JPG Vest Game Protective Vest Modular Chest Set Vest for Fun
Gray Tactical Gear
Product description
Product Information
Material:600D polyester fabric
Weight:38.8oz
Size:10.5*14.5 inches
Color:black,khaki,green,cp camo
Package:1pcs tactical vest
If you are satisfied with our product,please help to recommend it to your friends or relatives.Thank you and hope you a best life!
- Hight quality material:600D denier polyester fabric
- Molle stytem to carry tactical equipment
- The front compartment can put three M4 magazine or other small equipment
- Back of the belt can be adjusted
- Size:The maximum waist is 48 inch, the smallest waist is 32 inch.There will be some error in the measurement.Please pay attention the size before ordering the vest.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Where is manufactured |
| Answer: | I’m not sure but I got it quick and it is very nice quality... |
| Question: | Donde puedo obtener un video para ver en donde va la placa de peso |
| Answer: | la placa de peso va debajo de. (The plate goes under it) |
| Question: | In the picture the black ones different than all the other ones is that true |
| Answer: | Not sure. I only have the OD green. From the pictures of the reviewers, the shoulders ARE O.D. green not tan. |
| Question: | Well this be good for some one 6'4 and 330 lb |
| Answer: | I’m 6’4 270 and it fits but the “plates” fit a bit smaller then I would like |
CAMO Tactical Outdoor Carrier Vest
CAMO
Product description
CAMO Tactical vest offers quick-release functionality, breathability, and adaptability with chest rigs.It offers four pieces of detachable breathability padding for good airflow. The design fits different players with adjustable shoulder straps and adjustable upper waist sizes You also have hook-and-loop sealed concealed utility pockets at the sides. The waist can be adjusted quickly.It is more convenient to be equipped with hand drawstring. The shoulders can be adjusted quickly.Fast putting on/Fast taking off. Three-dimensional mesh ventilation and heat dissipation,enhance air permeability and ventilation Can be loaded with tactical flashlight,knife,pepper spray etc.
- 【HIGH QUALITY】 1000D Nylon,The special structure of the fabric gives it excellent wear resistance, tear resistance, unmatched strength, light weight, softness and easy care.
- 【Quick to Release】 Padded and reinforced shoulder straps adjustable with 6 inch -8 inch,length:14 inch, wide:12 inch, Waist adjustable with 29"-49" to protect your sides with concealed hook-and-loop utility pockets
- 【MOLLE Module System】3” by 6” patch panels at the front and back for your name patches and morale patches, MOLLE all around for your pouches, equipment, hydration pack, etc.
- 【More Breathable】 Detachable mesh padding for good airflow during game play
- 【MULTIFUNCTION】All of accessories can be disassembled and reorganized,Suitable Tactics, Duty, Military fans, CS game
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do you have black |
| Answer: | No |
| Question: | What size plates does it take and what shirt size would it be |
| Answer: | This vest doesn't take plates and is just about only for airsoft and things of that nature, the vest is also very adjustable and at the smallest will go to about a 32" waist size at about a 28"-30" height, about someone who fits a medium t-shirt, but can be adjusted to a much larger size, probably around a XXL size t-shirt size I would guess |
| Question: | Does it fit a adult male that is |
| Answer: | Yes, perfectly |
| Question: | The first question ask if it will except plates and tgey say no. Then other people ask if it will take 10x12 plate and they say yes. Witch is it or no |
| Answer: | Yes it will hold 10x12 plates |
BYHai Tactical CS Field Vest Breathable Combat Training Vest Nylon Adjustable for Unisex Adults
HaiLLC
Product description
1.Minimal designed (chest coverage) for maximum mobility.
2.Integrated magazine pouches on the front of the carrier.
3.Adjustable Waist straps and padded shoulder straps fit most sizes.
4. Simplified version for easy-carrying.
5. Great for CS game or other outdoor activities.
Multiple Colour Optional
Four colors are available in our store. Please choose the vest according to the scene you will play.
Usually the black and green color is good in dark or in jungle . The khaki is good for the activity in desert.
Name: Tactical vest
Net weight: 830 grams
High-quality nylon material, strong tensile strength, comfortable and more flexible
The front is Molle design, easy to carry other small equipment
Velcro and buckle on the shoulder and waist side for quick and easy disassembly
Large package with Velcro, can be marked as a badge
Package Contents:
1 tactical vest
- Fabric made of 600D waterproof oxford cloth, The size is 42*6*50cm, suitable for unisex adult
- Four colors for choosing: black, green, mud color, camouflage, Super light, waterproof, wear-resisting, multi-function, high-capacity, adjustable
- Minimal designed (chest coverage) for maximum mobility, Integrated magazine pouches on the front of the carrier
- Adjustable Waist straps and padded shoulder straps fit most sizes, Simplified version for easy-carrying
- It is suitable for outdoor activities such as CS, camping, hunting and so on. Suitable for games and other outdoor activities
User questions & answers
| Question: | I’m big guy. 5’10”. 280. Will fit around me |
| Answer: | This might be too small fitting for you it does stretch a lot so you can wear it and it will do its job but it won’t look great if your wearing it for protection either putting a ballistic plate in it or useing it for air soft this vest is able to fit almost anyone |
| Question: | What design is the camo? Is it the multi cam or the bdu? It’s got two different pictures |
| Answer: | It's like rip off multicam. |
| Question: | Can I put plates in it |
| Answer: | Fits plates 10-12 or smaller I tried putting my 11-14 and it started to rip the vest trying to fit it but my small plates fits perfectly |
| Question: | Does it hold magazines without needing a pouch |
| Answer: | No |
ATG Tactical Expert Vest 11"X14" MOLLE and PALS Fully Adjustable Law Enforcement
Alta Tactical Gear
Product description
Tactical Vest
User questions & answers
| Question: | What type of plates is this vest built to carry |
| Answer: | 11x14 |
| Question: | will these hold real plates |
| Answer: | Yes I have put 11x14 steel plates in and held with no problem |
| Question: | is this bullet approval |
| Answer: | it can be with ballistics plates added to the carrier that are sold separately |
| Question: | Will soft body armor fit into this |
| Answer: | Yes |
WarTechGears Discreet Vest 2XL+ 11"X14" Fully Adjustable Law Enforcement
WarTechGears
Product description
Adjustable hook and loop fastener shoulder straps.
- Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
- Learn more about free returns.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is it sized m-2xl? or just 2xl |
| Answer: | It fits my 15 yr old son and myself at 220 lbs |
| Question: | Is it stab resistant |
| Answer: | No. |
| Question: | How many plates does it hold |
| Answer: | 2 plates 1 front and 1 back. |
| Question: | Is this a bullet proof |
| Answer: | No it is not |
OneTigris Griffin AFPC Modular Vest
OneTigris
- 500D Cordura Nylon, UTX Buckles
- OneTigris GRIFFIN AFPC Airsoft Vest: 500D Cordura Nylon(USA Material) construction offering dirt/water/abrasion resistance
- Detachable Front Design: Removable front MOLLE flap with chest rig compatibility via 1” buckles; NOTE: Top handle for hanging up when not in use
- More Breathable: Detachable mesh padding for good airflow during game play
- Quick to Release: Padded and reinforced buckled shoulder straps with 12” -17”adjustable length; 6.5” wide cummerbund with 36"-48" adjustable length to protect your sides with concealed hook-and-loop utility pockets
- 3” by 6” patch panels at the front and back for your name patches and morale patches, MOLLE all around for your pouches, equipment, hydration pack, etc.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this have front and back plates |
| Answer: | It has the pockets for front and back plates, but it only comes with styrofoam inserts. |
| Question: | Can it use real plates or is it just for airsoft |
| Answer: | Yes but they have to be 10x12 |
| Question: | I'm an infantrymen and need a reasonably priced plate carrier. Will this hold medium/large army issue plates |
| Answer: | I’ve been using a Condor Plate carrier that I purchased for the last 4 years that’s held up really well for what it cost and held medium plates with no issue. I purchased this one about 4 months ago due to the Condor not having MOLLE on the sides or places for the side plates and everything swapped over without any issues. It even feels like it wears more comfortably than the Condor. |
| Question: | Will it fit on youth |
| Answer: | Unfortunately, unless your youth is bigger in size for their age, then no. The only gear similar to this that I’ve found in youth sizes have all been vest style, I’ve yet to find a plate carrier that comes in youth sizes. |
Product features
Why Choose OneTigris GRIFFIN AFPC Airsoft Vest?
A OneTigris signature vest that offers quick-release functionality, breathability, and adaptability with chest rigs. We’re looking at the same quality Cordura material and UTX buckles, and upgraded shoulder straps so you can take the vest off after each game with efficiency. The GRIFFIN offers four pieces of detachable breathability padding for good airflow, and 1” buckles for you to use your own chest rigs. The design fits different players with adjustable shoulder straps and adjustable upper waist sizes from 36” to 48”. You also have hook-and-loop sealed concealed utility pockets at the sides.
Upgraded Airsoft Vest
- Top handle design on the rear
- Quick-release buckled shoulder straps
- MOLLE compatible patch panel
- Hidden cummerbund pockets for extra storage if needed
- Compatible with your own chest rigs by removing front molle flap
OneTigris Warm Tips
Only a tactical vest, anything else is not included
Sniper Vest
Modular Vest
Plate Carrier Vest
DMAIP Hunting Molle Tactical Vest Combat Security Training Tool Pouch Modoular Protective Durable Waistcoat for Outdoor Paintball CS Game Airsoft Climbing Hiking
DMAIP
Product description
- With 3 detachable accessory bags to meet different storing need.
- One of the accessory bags adopts a large tape design, where you can paste a badge as your identification.
- Suitable for outdoor activities such as air guns, CS field, camping, hunting, paintball, wargames and other outdoor activities.
Type: Molle Carrier Vest
Material: 600D oxford
Package weight: 1.6 kg
Product size (L x W x H): 50.00 x 40.00 x 6.00 cm / 19.69 x 15.75 x 2.36 inches.
Package Contents: 1 x Amphibious Tactical Military Molle Waistcoat Combat Assault Plate Carrier Vest
- Front and back adopt molle design, can easily carry other small devices.
- Product size (L x W x H): 50.00 x 40.00 x 6.00 cm / 19.69 x 15.75 x 2.36 inches.
- High-quality 600D oxford material, stronger tensile strength and wear resistance, comfortable and durable.
- Designed with ergonomic principles, with good mechanical design, and can greatly reduce the partial force on the human body.
- Shoulder and waist side part adopt tape and buckle design which enables you to wear and take off this tactical vest rapidly and conveniently.
User questions & answers
| Question: | I am 6 foot tall and 140lbs would this fit me |
| Answer: | Yes. My son is 6 foot 200lbs. It is adjustable. Just FYI there is paracord loops that you have to cut first, put on the vest, adjust the sides then retie the cord. That was confusing but he loves it. Wears it to the shooting range. |
| Question: | Will 11X14 steel plates fit |
| Answer: | I have standard level 4 chest plates in mine |
| Question: | can this take steal plates |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | Are the molle pouches removable |
| Answer: | Yes they are adjustable I had gotten mine about a few weeks ago an I love it all the pouches fit great |
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