What Materials Are Used in Modern Civilian-Grade Bulletproof Vests?

Bulletproof Clothing For Him & Her

Not all body armor is created equal. And what’s inside matters just as much as what’s on the label.

Here’s what you need to know about the materials that protect your life—and why some are worth trusting more than others.

1. Kevlar®

The previous standard. Still widely used.

Kevlar is a tightly woven synthetic fiber known for stopping handgun rounds. It’s been around for decades and is still found in many entry-level vests.

Pros:

• Proven to stop bullets

• Fairly low cost

• Commonly available & known

Cons:

• Heavier than newer materials

• Bulky and less flexible

• Loses strength when wet or exposed to UV

• Degrades over time (most expire in 5 years)

Kevlar will stop a bullet—but it’ll weigh you down and wear out faster than modern alternatives. It's also what most people think of when they hear bulletproof / body armor.

2. UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene)

The new standard and the modern choice for lightweight, high-performance armor.

UHMWPE is a next-gen polymer that’s quickly become the new standard in civilian-grade protection. It’s what we use at Civilian for one simple reason: it outperforms older materials in every way that matters.

Pros:

• Up to 40% lighter than Kevlar

• Water-resistant and UV-stable

• Ultra-thin for true concealment

• More flexible and comfortable for everyday wear

• Longer shelf life (up to 10+ years)

Civilian’s gear uses high-density UHMWPE to deliver certified NIJ IIIA protection in hoodies and tees that are nearly impossible to tell apart from regular clothes—until you need them.

Final Take

If you're buying body armor in 2025, the material should work with your life—not against it.

Ultimately, you have to make your own choice, and as always do your own research.

See Civilian's bulletproof attire →