I’ve noticed at two stores that the clothing of their hired security has more of a military feel. Specifically, the vests are bulky and look like they might be intended to protect against shrapnel. The ICE crew has a similar look, which may not be coincidental.
The vests are perhaps similar to these, though less dorky looking because Walmart (?) security is wearing a full uniform.
My question is whether these sorts of vests when worn by retail security are functional in any sort of way (stopping bullets, concealing batarangs, whatever) or whether they are making a satorial statement.
Those are called plate carriers and they have pockets for you to put in your armor of choice. Can be ceramic, composite, Kevlar, steel, I don’t know what all. Some of those in the photo you posted, particularly the guy in the plaid shirt, seem to be woefully undersized, perhaps more for looks than effect.
With any of these, you make your choice as to what kind of plates you load up. For these kind of ding dongs, I suppose it’s entirely possible they’ve just got cardboard in there.
How would any of us know without seeing the actual vest the security guards are wearing?
I will tell you, back in the very early 80’s I worked security at a mall in Milwaukee and we wore real vests. But they were the under uniform vests. I don’t even know if outer carriers were available back then. I don’t think so but I don’t know.
What kind of armor did you use?
40+ years ago? I don’t remember.
I do remember that it was hot and heavy as shit. Especially compared to the vests of today.
And it was obvious you were wearing it under your uniform.