Beginner’s Guide To Body Armor

If you’ve never considered bulletproof clothing or body armor before, you’re not alone. For many people, it sounds like something reserved for law enforcement or military personnel—not everyday life. But in today’s world, where safety can’t always be guaranteed, more civilians are taking personal protection into their own hands. This guide will walk you through the basics—what bulletproof apparel is, why people wear it, and how to choose the right option for your needs.

Protection for the whole family

Why Would Anyone Need Bulletproof Clothing?

The simple answer? Because threats don’t always look like threats.

You might be a teacher who wants peace of mind in your classroom. A parent walking your kid to school. A professional commuting through a city where random violence happens. Or maybe you’re someone who just believes in being prepared.

Bulletproof clothing is designed to give you a layer of protection without looking tactical or drawing attention. It’s not about paranoia—it’s about being realistic.

How Does Bulletproof Apparel Actually Work?

Bulletproof—or more accurately, bullet-resistant—clothing uses advanced materials like UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) to absorb and disperse the energy from a bullet, reducing or preventing penetration. It’s lightweight, flexible, and concealable, making it ideal for daily use.

Most wearable protection falls under NIJ Level IIIA, which is designed to stop most common handgun threats—including 9mm, .45 ACP, and .44 Magnum.

Heavier-duty armor like Level III or IV plates can stop rifle rounds—but they’re bulky, rigid, and designed for military or tactical situations. For everyday life, soft armor is what you’re looking for, compared to hard plates that are needed to stop rifle rounds.

What Kinds of Bulletproof Clothing Are There?

There’s more than just vests these days. The world of discreet protection has evolved, and here are a few options:

1. Bulletproof Hoodies & T-Shirts

• Designed to look and feel like regular clothing.

• Panels are hidden inside and cover vital organs (heart, lungs, etc.).

• Great for anyone who wants protection in daily environments—schools, offices, public spaces.

2. Slash proof Scarves & Accessories

• Protect against knife threats, especially in areas where that’s more likely than gunfire.

  • Very important to be noted- this is not stab proof- it's slash proof. Designed for anyone who wants to feel protected or like they're wearing a "second skin" at any point in time.

    • Slash proof material is great for hunters- when skinning a deer things can get messy & you're working closely with a knife.

• Lightweight, stylish, and ideal for people walking alone or traveling.

3. Bulletproof Backpacks & Bags

• Useful for parents, students, and commuters.

• Can be used as a shield in emergencies.

• Offers flexibility—you don’t need to wear anything, but the protection is always nearby.

4. Vests & Plate Carriers

• Available in both soft armor (concealed) and hard armor (military-style) versions.

• More common among security professionals or people in high-risk roles.

At Civilian, we're currently developing bulletproof jackets of sorts as well, so stay tuned for that.

Body armor designed in everyday clothing is now a necessity for civilians.

What Should I Choose as a Beginner?

If you’re brand new, start simple. A bulletproof hoodie or t-shirt is the easiest entry point—no one can tell you’re wearing it, and you don’t have to change how you dress. You most likely wear a t-shirt everyday- so this is a great place to start.

Remember: bulletproof doesn’t mean invincible—but it does mean you’ve given yourself more time, more options, and a better chance. Thats's ultimately what Civilian buys you.

Browse Civilian’s collection of discreet, real-world-tested protective gear. Designed to blend in. Built to save lives.

As always, feel free to reach out to us at hello@civilianco.com if you have any questions.