In Part 1 of our two-part Breasts and Vests series, the Tactical Trio tackles tactical vest fitting, body armor ergonomics, and the unique challenges female police officers can face when wearing duty gear for long shifts.

We’re three athletic therapists and strength coaches with more than 45 years of combined experience working with first responders. We’re sharing practical, real-world advice to help officers, athletic trainers, strength coaches, and police leaders understand why proper vest fit matters for occupational health, injury prevention, comfort, and performance.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Female-fit vs. male-fit body armor: Why different body shapes and torso lengths matter when choosing a tactical vest.
• Signs your vest may not fit properly: Constantly adjusting your gear, pinching around the neck or armpits, shoulder pain, and numbness or tingling in the hands.
• How to get a better vest fitting: What to consider when being measured, why you should wear the same type of bra you plan to wear on duty, and why you should test your fit while sitting, standing, twisting, and reaching.
• Duty gear and chronic load carriage: How your vest, duty belt, and other equipment work together to affect comfort and mobility.
• Practical strategies for neck, shoulder, and back discomfort: Simple mobility and decompression ideas to consider before and after wearing your gear.
• Breathing and nervous system regulation: How to use awareness of your breathing to support better movement, recovery, and readiness while wearing your vest.

Here is a link to a video of the Accessory Nerve Floss to help with neck pain https://youtube.com/shorts/skRUAzGoRNE?feature=share

Your body armor is essential protective equipment, but that doesn’t mean you should have to accept unnecessary discomfort as part of the job. We talk about advocating for a proper fit, exploring approved equipment options, and taking steps to support your body throughout a long shift.

Coming up in Part 2: We go under the uniform to discuss bra fitting for female officers, including the challenges of wearing a bra under body armor and practical considerations for comfort and support on duty.

Have a question about tactical wellness, body armor, injury prevention, or working with first responders? Send it to askthetacticaltrio@gmail.com.

Support the show