Some armor has default vest sizes. Using a sizing chart you can estimate the closest generic size, however ordering with a sizing form will always give you the most accurate sizing.
Female vests should always be ordered with a sizing for a proper fit. In some cases male vests could be used, but it is usually not recommended.
To estimate your size to the closest generic vest size:
Measure your chest and add 2, i.e. 40+2=42.
Measure your waist and add 6, i.e. 38+6=44.
Pick the larger of the two, in this case 44.
If you have more than 6 between these two numbers average them out and if necessary round up to the nearest even number, i.e. 48μ40=44.
Measure your front length while sitting.
(Clavicle to above the navel)
13 to 14 = R and 15 to 16 = L
If your vest rises up when sitting, the SSBS Neoprene straps can be trimmed to raise the vest.
NOTE: In this case, please call us so as not to damage the product and void your warranty.
Understand that these are estimations for a quick fit; for a proper fit it's always best to order with a sizing form. The professionals at Body Armor Outlet can walk you through the process if you have any questions.
How to tell if your concealable body armor fits correctly: Concealable body armor should cover your center mass vitals, and achieve anywhere from a 2 inch gap on each side (for the most mobility) to overlapping of the ballistic panels on the sides where the front and back panels meet (for the most protection).
The first thing to remember when trying on vests is that your front panel should always lay over your rear panel as threats typically come from in front of you, and this ensures that the overlap on the side of the vest is rear facing.
A correctly sized vest will cover you from 1-1.5 inches below the top of your breastbone, to 1-2 inches above your navel (belly button) in length. The width, as mentioned earlier, should achieve anywhere from a 2 inch gap to 1" of overlapping where the front and rear panels meet. Your personal preference may dictate minor variations in comfort, mobility, concealment, and protection.
A vest that is too small for the user will lack the needed coverage to ensure proper protection with large gaps of coverage as well as being too tight and constricting, whereas a vest that is too large will shift, bunch, and crumple while it's being worn, causing pinch points and poor protection. It is a crucial step when buying body armor to ensure that it fits properly so that it performs at its peak level.
If you have any questions at all about armor sizing, don't hesitate to call us. Our highly trained staff will assist you in getting the best fit possible.
For charts, choose from one of our available sizing charts below.
DARKMATTER Energy Dispersal Pads addressthree critical issuesencountered with body-worn armor systems:
KINETIC ENERGY TRANSFER: DARKMATTER disperses the kinetic energy transferred from nearly all forms of dangerous impact-ballistic, blunt force, vehicular, and more.
BACK FACE DEFORMATION: DARKMATTER reduces BFD more effectively than any ballistic trauma pad on the market—mitigating the risk of Behind Armor Blunt Trauma (BABT)
FITMENT & COMFORT: DARKMATTER ensures fitment between armor and wearer—independent of gender, size, or body type—significantly increasing effectiveness and comfort.
NOTE: This shield is constructed of a non-ballistic material and is not intended to provide bullet resistance.
Features:
Reduce dangerous energy transfer and back face deformation (BFD) more effectively than any product on the market
Maintain resiliency in multi-hit scenarios
Lightweight, slim form factor allows for quick and easy integration with existing hard or soft armor systems
Improve fitment and comfort of body-worn armor for all genders, sizes, and body types
"In thorough testing at our facility, DARKMATTER proved to significantly reduce BFD when compared to standalone armor plates and armor paired with other trauma pad materials. It also did not pulverize during multi-hit impacts like traditional foams currently used in the industry."
