Tag: Tactical gear

Studies show a substantial increase in back, neck, and upper extremity pain among soldiers wearing body armor, highlighting the critical question: are body armors actually healthy for the wearer's long-term well-being beyond their life-saving function?.

According to the Committee on Military Nutrition Research, caffeinated gum was recommended for military operations for its speed of absorption and action. While the term 'MRE gum' has entered civilian lexicon, it actually refers to two distinct products: a caffeinated version for energy and a xylitol-based version for oral hygiene. This distinction is crucial for anyone seeking the real facts behind this widely-discussed military ration component.

With the body armor market valued at billions of dollars, the demand for cutting-edge protective gear is soaring. But beyond the impressive market size, what makes modern body armor so "sweet" and desirable is the fusion of advanced materials and intelligent design that offers unparalleled safety.

According to military research, soldiers wearing body armor experience higher heat strain and require more fluids than those in standard uniforms, especially in warm climates. The armor's insulating properties trap heat and hinder evaporative cooling, directly increasing the risk of heat-related illness. This guide will clarify the critical difference between protective gear and a popular sports drink brand, and provide essential advice on managing your hydration while wearing body armor.

According to research, tight clothing around the waist can increase abdominal pressure, and contrary to popular belief, body armor cannot help with throwing up. In reality, wearing restrictive protective gear, especially when ill-fitting or paired with intense physical exertion, can actually worsen the conditions that cause nausea and vomiting.

Military studies show that protective body armor can increase an individual's heat strain, heart rate, and body temperature. This directly contradicts the idea that body armor helps with dehydration and actually reveals it to be a significant contributing factor to rapid fluid loss and heat-related illness.

In 2024, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) introduced a new standard (0101.07), classifying armor into Handgun (HG) and Rifle (RF) levels, which completely redefined how to determine what is the best body armor. This shift means buyers must understand the new ratings to ensure their gear provides adequate protection against specific threats.