Mark Greene
Whether you are a member of law enforcement or an enthusiast who plays paintball and airsoft, you will need a protective vest. It is both the way to protect yourself and ensure you have all the necessary items within your grasp. In this article, we are trying to find the best tactical vest in the market. Please check out our top 10 suggestions and feel free to find your favorite!
The Best Tactical Vest
1. Our Pick: Modern Warrior Junior Tactical Vest
BEST CHOICE
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Spacious pockets
- Great for paintball
- Very durable
PROS
- The torso is adjustable to enable an optimal fit
- The strong zippers keep the vest tight
- Versatile and suitable for different uses
- Excellent storage capacity
CONS
- The size runs a bit small
- It may take a couple of days to eliminate the odor
DETAILS
Modern Warrior is a well-known name in the market, and they are famous for a high-quality product. The Junior Tactical Vest is not an exception. It uses durable and strong materials, but it also ensures to provide maximum comfort.
The torso and sides are adjustable with straps so that you will find the ideal fit for you. Once you put on the vest, you will notice the numerous pockets available to store different items, such as ammo and other essentials. Thanks to that, you can use this vessel for paintball, airsoft, hunting, and many other purposes.
The only downside of this vest is its size. It is suitable for those between 50 and 125 pounds, which indicates that adults should look for another model. You might need to wash it or wait a couple of days for the odor to evaporate, but you will get a long-lasting vessel of exceptional quality, and that is why this product is worth your investment.
2. Premium Pick: GLORYFIRE Tactical Vest
PREMIUM PICK
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- A wide range of colors
- Emergency release handle
- Plenty of room to adjust
PROS
- Shoulder pads are very comfortable
- Pockets are easy to access
- The emergency drag handle works like a charm
- Impressive versatility
CONS
- Snap buttons may not be that durable
- It might not fit people who wear a size larger than XL
DETAILS
GLORYFIRE has designed a premium tactical vest that is available in an extensive range of colors depending on your needs. The vessel seems to be equally popular among amateur and professionals.
Apart from versatility, comfort is the best feature of this unit. The interior mesh lining makes it breathable, and the shoulder straps are adjustable and padded so that you can wear the vest for a long time. If you need to take it off urgently, you will be pleased with the efficiency of the emergency drag handle.
The pockets are spacious and easy to access, but the manufacturer used magnetic snaps, which might not be the most durable option out there. This universal vest fits people that wear sizes from medium to XL.
3. Best Value: UTG 547 Law Enforcement Tactical Vest
BEST VALUE
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Great selection of camo colors
- One-size-fits-all unit
- It helps to prevent sweating
PROS
- A fairly durable and versatile unit
- It comes with a holster
- Spacious zippered pouches
- A mesh ventilation system included
CONS
- The zipper could be more durable
- It does take a bit of effort to adjust the size
DETAILS
The manufacturer claims this tactical vest is an excellent choice for law enforcement, but the selection of camo colors makes it more versatile than that.
The interesting thing about UTG’s vessel is that it utilizes a one-size-fits-all approach. That means you purchase a highly-adjustable vest with several available straps. It may take a bit of effort, but the chances are you will find the right size.
The item has a couple of pouches you can use for documents, maps, and other essentials. The zippers could be of better quality, but that shouldn’t bother you too much. The holster is an excellent and very useful addition, as well as the mesh ventilation, which will keep the optimal temperature of the body and prevent sweating.
4. Barbarians Tactical Molle Vest
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Affordable price
- Attractive design
- Numerous pouches available
PROS
- A spacious main pocket for more than a dozen cans
- Additional compartments for dry storage
- Equal distribution of the load when carrying the backpack
- The liner is antimicrobial and resistant to leaks
CONS
- The zippers are prone to breaking
- Be careful not to put too many things inside or the backpack might tear
DETAILS
Barbarians tactical vest comes in several design and color combinations, but it seems like the tan one offers the best value. It has a total of 15 compartments, and each of them has a specific purpose. Thanks to them, you can fit a water bottle, documents, bullets, smartphones, flashlights, and many other items into your vest.
The pistol holster is removable, and that makes this vest suitable for left-handed shooters. The entire product was made of 600D polyester, which is both comfortable and fairly durable. It might not last as long as some other units, but that is why the company offered a fair price.
As for the specifications, you can use velcro strips to adjust the belt and shoulders. The waist goes between 30 and 48 inches, and the length varies from 21 to 24 inches.
5. GZ XINXING S – 4XL Law Enforcement Tactical Airsoft Paintball Vest
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- A budget-friendly price tag
- Excellent variation in sizes
- A versatile vest
PROS
- Suitable for persons from 90 to 350 pounds
- A breathable vest that you can wear for a long time
- Spacious enough to fit all the necessary items
- Plenty of ways to adjust the fit
CONS
- It might not fit paintball pads in pockets
- The gun holster doesn’t make it easy to draw out the gun
DETAILS
When you see a one-size-fits-most model, it is only normal you are worried whether the item will fit. However, GZ XINSING offers plenty of room for adjustment, including shoulder and waist, and can fit people from 90 to 350 pounds. Keep in mind, however, that this is individual and may depend on your measurements.
The vest is made of durable and breathable materials, which means it should prevent sweating and ensure comfort. You can find multiple pouches and pockets to place various items, which makes the product convenient.
It is a shame that the gun holster isn’t at an angle as it would be easier to draw out the weapon. Additionally, there doesn’t seem to be a pocket for paintball pads, but that doesn’t change that this is a versatile unit for various purposes.
6. ActionUnion Airsoft Tactical Vest
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Extremely durable
- Suitable for professionals
- Attractive design
PROS
- Made of high-quality materials
- Offers a high level of protection
- Resistant to water, and great at retaining heat
- A versatile vest suitable for various uses
CONS
- It is a bit expensive
- Getting pouches on the vest is a bit tricky
DETAILS
If you ask experienced members of law enforcement or those who carried tactical vests for years, the chances are they would recommend this item. The primary reason is the material used by the manufacturer.
The combination of neoprene and strong EVA protective plate does an excellent job in retaining temperature, resisting water, and ensuring comfort. ActionUnion designed a very durable and versatile vest. You can adjust it with the maximum size being 45.2 inches at the waist and 51.1 inches at shoulders.
You can mount pouches and other tactical equipment on the vessel, which is a bit tricky, but you should find a way to do it easily. Overall, the vest is perfect for outdoor use and can be used for hunting, target shooting, paintball, airsoft, and other activities, but it is also suitable for professionals
7. OneTigris MOLLE Tactical Vest
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- A high level of protection
- It looks cool
- Easy to put on
PROS
- Made of superb quality materials
- Double protection thanks to the EVA padding
- You can mount tactical pouches on the unit
- A very breathable vest
CONS
- The size runs a bit small
- The price is somewhat high
DETAILS
The unique color choice makes this design equally attractive to both men and women. Tourit has designed a large backpack that manages to keep its weight light. You can fit up to 30 cans inside, and the main compartment is very roomy.
You can also find two big zipper pockets, one small one, and three mesh pockets. Additionally, you also get a bottle opener so that you can easily open a drink.
The insulation capacity of the unit is great, and you will find that it can keep drinks cold (or food hot) for up to 16 hours. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t overstuff it as it is prone to occasional leakages. Although the overall durability could be better, it is still a good deal for the price.
8. ThreeH Outdoor Protective Tactical Vest
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Intriguing and fashionable design
- Comfortable to wear
- A spacious back pocket
PROS
- Suitable for outdoor games
- A lightweight vest
- Affordable price tag
- Adjustable shoulder and waist straps
CONS
- It may smell before you wash it
- The durability is not impressive
DETAILS
ThreeH created a vest that has a fashionable design. Those that want to look sleek while playing paintball or their other favorite games will like this unit. You can also use it for fishing and other activities, but professionals should probably look for an alternative.
The vessel is incredibly light and comfortable since it was made from 600F Oxford fabric. The product is breathable and comfortable to wear. The pocket on the back offers a 10×12 inch space for your items.
When it comes to protection, it comes with adequate foam padding. However, durability is not impressive. Additionally, consider washing it before you use it as it may have an unpleasant odor when it arrives.
9. Invenko Tactical Molle Airsoft Vest
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Great for hunting
- Stick and clasp design
- Affordable price
PROS
- Made of high-quality nylon
- The pouches are removable
- One-size-fits-most model
- A fairly durable vest
CONS
- Make sure to wash before you use it
- It might become uncomfortable when worn for long
DETAILS
The manufacturer went with durable 1000D nylon, which should provide optimal durability for the unit. The tan color can be useful if you need camouflage, but you can also attach extra material and pouches.
The vest is suitable for hunting, and other outdoor activities, such as combat, tactical and shooting training. The waist and shoulders are adjustable (50” max waist), but it seems the padding at the shoulders could be more generous. As a result, the vessel may become uncomfortable after wearing it for a while.
The stick and clasp adjustment design is convenient, as well as the fact that you can remove the pouches as you see fit. However, the item might come with an odor, but you can get rid of it if you wash the vest.
10. Teknon Tactical Utility & Accessory Vest
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- A heavy-duty vest
- A high customization level
- Very spacious and convenient
PROS
- A very durable vest made of premium materials
- Detachable pouches and pockets for customization
- Adjustable belts and straps
- Fairly comfortable to wear
CONS
- The inside pockets are somewhat stiff
- The manufacturer doesn’t mention maximum waist size
DETAILS
Teknon did a lot of things right with their vest. For starters, they used solid materials without any mesh, which makes this product suitable for heavy-duty use. It weighs three pounds, but it manages to be quite comfortable.
The vessel offers plenty for room for customization so that you can suit it to your needs. For starters, you have plenty of pouches and pockets available, and they are all removable. The inside pockets are great for securing items, but they are somewhat stiff. While that is not a problem, they may produce some noise when you reach for items inside.
You can adjust the shoulders and waist, but the manufacturer failed to mention the maximum waist size in the description. Regardless, it seems there is plenty of room for maneuvering, which only speaks in favor of this unit’s versatility.
How to Choose the Best Tactical Vest
If you are planning on buying a tactical vest, it is vital to make a smart purchasing decision. The below factors can help you to become an informed buyer and choose a vessel that suits your needs.
Material and Durability
The material choice is essential for a tactical vest. Nylon, polyester, and other fabrics are all great options as long as they are of adequate quality and durability.
Think about how you plan to use the vessel. If you are a professional, the chances are you need a product of the highest quality and protection level. On the other hand, if you need it for outdoor games like paintball, you may find a low-priced vessel that still provides adequate protection.
Another thing you may want to consider is the weight of the vest. While some users prefer it to be light, others do not mind if it is a bit heavy as long as it provides the optimum level of protection.
Size
Size is directly related to comfort, and it is essential that your vest is comfortable to wear. After all, the chances are you will wear it for hours, or even the entire day.
The majority of tactical vests use the one-size-fits-all (one-size-fits-most) approach. That means they offer adjustable straps and shoulders that you can use to adjust the length and the girth of the item.
However, it is essential to keep in mind that each vessel has a maximum waist size, so make sure to read that information when choosing your desired unit. Apart from picking the right size, generous shoulder pads can contribute to overall comfort.
Pouches, Pockets, and Other Accessories
A great tactical vest will be capable of accommodating all the items you may need during combat. Depending on your preference, look for a gun holster, ammo holders, pockets for maps, mobile phones, and other items.
Some products will offer detachable pockets so that you can adjust the unit to your needs. The best vessels out there will also allow you to mount additional camouflage pouches and other necessary equipment.
Final Conclusion
Do you already have the best tactical vest in mind? It ultimately depends on your preference, but whether you want to look sleek for the next paintball match, or you need a vessel for combat or hunting, we are sure you will find one in the list above!
