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.
We are phasing out these older vests. When they are gone, BAO will no longer offer them.
Ruggedized Zip-Front Armorskin XP, Black
The Zip-Front version of the Armorskin XP is the same in all respects to the regular non-zip version, except of course for the convenient zipper.
There’s no need to sacrifice durability for comfort with the new Ruggedized ArmorSkin® XP.
8355XP matches Blauer uniform base shirts well while providing superior abrasion resistance and crisp appearance with its rugged 600D fabric and fusible backing. The ruggedized 8350XP with Teflon® water-repellent coating handles tough environments as well as any tactical vest and features 3 rows of MOLLE below chest pockets. (NOTE: all "short" lengths of this product have 2 rows of MOLLE due to space constraints.)
If threat levels change, XP’s patented zippered plate pockets (front and rear) fit standard 10"x12" armor plates, without blocking access to identification or gear. Stretch mesh side panels improve comfort and range of motion, while the mesh lining is treated to prevent odor.
ArmorSkin XP fits all brands of soft armor and has two flashlight pockets on the sides, a hidden Napoleon pocket on the chest, and pleated patch chest pockets with hook-and-loop closures featuring pen pockets on both sides.
Features:
Ruggedized, Teflon® coated 600D fabric with fusible backing stands up to everyday challenges
2 rows of MOLLE provide alternative placements to balance gear load (2 rows on "short" length variants)
Patented front and rear zippered plate pockets let you armor up on demand
Stretch side mesh panels for comfort, breathability, and increased range of motion
Bonus flashlight pocket, along with standard chest and Napoleon pockets
