The PPSS Group Covert Stab Vest in Black delivers CAST-certified KR1 knife protection and SP1 spike protection in a Fortiply carbon fibre composite panel approximately 3.6 mm thin and weighing 1.5 kg (size Large). Manufactured in the UK, this concealable vest is designed to be worn beneath standard clothing across an extended shift without compromising mobility. It also carries VPAM W5 certification, meaning the protective panel withstands 100 joules of blunt-force impact from objects such as metal pipes, baseball bats, and crowbars. Available in sizes S through 3XL, including a no-cost Wide fitting.

Who this is for

• Front-line security professionals: door supervisors, court security officers, shopping centre and airport security teams who need covert, shift-long protection without a visible vest profile.
• Healthcare and institutional security: hospital security staff, university security, and corrections officers who face elevated risks of edged-weapon and blunt-force assault in civilian environments.
• Enforcement and government personnel: parking enforcement officers, local government enforcement, revenue collection officers, and eviction officers who require a discreet armour profile appropriate to a public-facing role.

Threat coverage

The vest holds CAST certification at KR1 (knife) and SP1 (spike). KR1 covers single-edged weapons ranging from kitchen knives through to machetes. SP1 extends coverage to double-edged weapons such as flip knives and makeshift spike weapons including sharpened screwdrivers — threats that KR1-only armour does not address. Together, KR1 and SP1 represent the full spectrum of edged and pointed threats most likely to be encountered in civilian security roles.

The vest also holds VPAM W5 certification for blunt-force trauma, protecting against 100 joules of impact energy. Blunt-force injury is the most common injury type faced by security professionals, and VPAM W5 is the only current certification standard for this threat class. This vest is not rated for ballistic (bullet) threats and does not carry NIJ ballistic certification.

Concealability and comfort

The Fortiply panel measures approximately 3.6 mm in profile. Edges are feathered to eliminate pressure points at the panel perimeter, and the high-grade nylon outer cover incorporates a spacer fabric that allows cool air to circulate against the body during extended wear. Fully adjustable hook-and-loop side and shoulder fastenings allow the fit to be dialled in without tools. The minimalistic, protrusion-free silhouette sits flat beneath a standard work shirt or uniform jacket with no visible outline.

Care and maintenance

The protective panel removes from the outer cover for machine washing. The Fortiply composite does not degrade in the way that traditional aramid panels do, maintaining its protective properties across the service life of the vest. Hand-wash or spot-clean the panel if needed; machine-wash the outer cover separately.

Specifications

Fit and carrier compatibility

The vest runs from size Small through 3XL with a Wide fitting option available at no added cost. Hook-and-loop side panels and shoulder straps allow the fit to be adjusted across a range of torso widths and lengths without requiring a bespoke order. PPSS also offers alternative colours and fully bespoke designs for organisations with specific uniform requirements — contact us for details.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between KR1 and SP1 protection?

KR1 covers single-edged knife threats from kitchen knives through to machetes. SP1 adds protection against double-edged weapons such as flip knives and spike-type implements including sharpened screwdrivers. A vest rated KR1 only does not protect against spike threats, which is why this vest carries both certifications.

What does VPAM W5 mean and why does it matter?

VPAM W5 is a European certification standard for blunt-force impact resistance. W5 certification means the panel withstands 100 joules of impact energy from blunt objects such as metal pipes, baseball bats, and crowbars. Blunt-force trauma is the leading injury type for security personnel, and most stab vests do not carry a blunt-force certification at all.

Will this vest stop a bullet?

No. This vest is rated for edged-blade, spike, and blunt-force threats only. It does not carry any NIJ ballistic certification and is not designed to stop firearm projectiles. If ballistic protection is a requirement, a separate NIJ-rated ballistic panel or plate is needed.

How covert is this vest under regular clothing?

The Fortiply panel sits at approximately 3.6 mm thick and the outer cover is protrusion-free by design. With hook-and-loop adjustment set correctly to the wearer's torso, the vest profile remains flat beneath a standard work shirt, polo, or uniform jacket with no visible outline or bulk.

Can I machine-wash this vest?

Yes, the outer cover is machine-washable once the Fortiply panel is removed. The panel itself should be spot-cleaned or hand-washed separately. Removing the panel before washing also prevents the panel edges from stressing the cover stitching during a machine cycle.

Can this be shipped to my state?

This vest is a stab-resistant product, not a bullet-resistant ballistic vest, and does not fall under the US state body-armor statutes that restrict ballistic armor (such as those in New York and Connecticut). It is subject to standard US import regulations. Under 18 U.S.C. § 931, anyone with a federal felony conviction for a crime of violence is prohibited from purchasing or possessing body armor — consult the statute for the precise definition of covered products. Contact us with any jurisdiction-specific questions before ordering.