Armor Express Vortex Soft Armor Panels

The Armor Express Vortex soft armor panels deliver lightweight Level II and Level IIIA protection using Twaron® and Gold Shield materials. Available in gender-neutral and female configurations for superior fit and all-day comfort.

Add to Cart
Armor Express Vortex Soft Armor Panel in concealable panel only configuration.
Armor Express Vortex Soft Armor Panels

Concealable Carrier Options

Add Trauma Pad

External Carrier

  • Traverse External Carrier System for Patrol + Original price was: $329.95.Current price is: $313.45.
    Armor Express Traverse Dress Overt Patrol Carrier + Original price was: $349.95.Current price is: $332.45.
    Traverse Dress MOLLE Load Bearing Vest + Original price was: $349.95.Current price is: $332.45.
    Armor Express Traverse Dress Laser Cut Overt Patrol Carrier + Original price was: .Current price is: $0.00.
    Armor Express Traverse Laser Cut Patrol Carrier + Original price was: $349.95.Current price is: $332.45.

Armor Express Concealable Options

  • XSM: Chest 30-32 | Waist 26-27 | Torso Length 12
    SM: Chest 33-36 | Waist 28-30 | Torso Length 13
    MD: Chest 37-40 | Waist 32-34 | Torso Length 14
    LG: Chest 41-44 | Waist 36-38 | Torso Length 15
    XL: Chest 46-48 | Waist 40-42 | Torso Length 16
    2XL: Chest 50-52 | Waist 44-46 | Torso Length 17
    3XL: Chest 54-56 | Waist 48-50 | Torso Length 18
    4XL: Chest 58-60 | Waist 52-54 | Torso Length 19
  • Provide your height in feet and inches.

  • Provide your height in feet and inches.

  • Using a soft (tailor’s) tape take a standing measurement around the fullest part of your chest by placing the tape under your arms, across the shoulder blades and around the chest. Round up to the nearest whole inch.

  • Using a soft measuring tape (tailor’s tape) measure the total circumference around your back and widest part of the abdomen using the navel as a reference. Round up to the nearest whole inch.

  • Using a soft (tailor’s) tape measure measure from the suprasternal notch to your belly button. Round DOWN to the nearest whole inch.Min: 10Max: 20

  • Using the soft (tailor’s) tape measure from the most prominent cervical down to the top of your duty belt, or the small of your back. Round down to the nearest whole inch, and this measurement can not be +/- 3 inches from the front length measurement.Min: 12Max: 22

Armor Express Vortex Soft Armor Panels
Concealable Carrier Options
Carrier Color - Choose Your Color
Tuckable Tail -
Add Trauma Pad
Trauma Pad? -
Trauma Pack -
External Carrier
Add an External (Patrol) Carrier -
External Carrier: -
Armor Express Concealable Options
Select your Sizing - Alpha Sizing - See Chart
Alpha Sizing Chart -
Alpha Sizing - Large (LG)
Alpha Sizing - Length - Regular
Height (Feet) -
Height (Inches) -
Chest Measurement -
Girth Measurement -
Front Length -
Rear Length -
Side Overlap -
Subtotal
Armor Express Vortex Soft Armor Panel in concealable panel only configuration.
Armor Express Vortex Soft Armor Panels

Overview

Armor Express Vortex Soft Armor Panels deliver slim low-profile ballistic protection in Level II and Level IIIA configurations, engineered for strength, comfort, and versatile performance. These panels combine advanced Twaron® Flex woven aramid with Honeywell Gold Shield to offer outstanding stopping power while maintaining a lightweight footprint.

When you are standing on the front lines of society, facing it’s worst you want the best. When you want the best, you go to the experts. Armor Express has been among the leading ballistic manufactures since 2005, with roots that go back even further than that. The Armor Express Vortex Soft Armor Panels offer the end user a seamlessly combined properties of strength, comfort, and performance at an amazing value.

Key Features

  • Slim low-profile construction for discreet wear under clothing
  • Advanced Twaron® Flex woven aramid and Honeywell Gold Shield materials
  • Seam-sealed, waterproof Ripstop Nylon cover for durability
  • NIJ 0101.06 certified with additional in-house special threat testing
  • Stops high-velocity rounds including 5.7×28 mm lead-free variants
  • 5-year warranty from Armor Express

Vortex Soft Armor Panels Fit and Configuration Options

However, achieving the best fit directly impacts both comfort and ballistic coverage. Therefore, these Vortex soft armor panels come in gender-neutral as well as female-structured and unstructured configurations. Additionally, female-specific cuts address anatomical differences to reduce bulk and improve coverage. Moreover, structured female panels often need extra measurements for precision. Ultimately, choosing the right option ensures ergonomic performance without sacrificing protection. In addition, every configuration delivers identical certified threat levels and material quality.

Vortex Soft Armor Panels Protection Levels

Operators benefit from the Vortex ballistic panels because it balances slimness with tremendous stopping power. For example, Level II panels stop .44 Magnum and 5.7×28 mm SS197SR while maintaining BFS under 33 mm. Therefore, Level IIIA extends protection to 12-gauge rifled slugs and higher-velocity threats. Additionally, both levels use gender-neutral and female-specific cuts for optimal fit. Ultimately, these panels provide reliable defense in demanding environments.

Technical Details

  • Threat Levels: Level II (0.19–0.21 in thick, 0.86–0.93 lbs/ft²) and Level IIIA (0.25–0.26 in thick, 1.14–1.24 lbs/ft²)
  • Configurations: Gender Neutral, Female Structured, Female Unstructured
  • Ballistic Material: Twaron® Flex woven aramid + Honeywell Gold Shield
  • Cover: Seam-sealed, waterproof Ripstop Nylon
  • Certification: NIJ 0101.06 with special threat compliance
  • Availability: Made to Order (cut-to-order, no refunds/exchanges)
  • Compatible Carriers: Revolution Carrier, Traverse Carrier Family

Acclaimed as one of the most versatile ballistic package available in today’s market the Vortex Soft Armor Panels are expertly constructed. Utilizing a slim profile and lightweight materials the Vortex Ballistics offer outstanding strength in both the Level II and IIIa configurations.

This product includes a Concealable Carrier to complete your kit.

All Soft Armor Panels are cut to order, and considered a custom idea. Once the armor has been cut there are no refunds or exchanges. Please ensure proper size prior to placing your order. If you have any questions about what size you should order please contact us.

If you are requesting a structured female panel additional measurements may be required to ensure proper fit.

Advanced Protection of the Vortex Soft Armor Panels

The vortex panels have been certified by the National Institute of Justice in both Level II and Level IIIa ballistic protection configurations to the NIJ 0101.06 standard. Armor Express takes it one step further by performing independent lab testing to ensure that each ballistic protection package is FBI, DEA and AE special threat compliant as well.

Vortex Soft Armor Panels NIJ Performance

Threat Level Width & Weight 9MM V-50 (II)
/ .357 SIG V-50 (IIIA)
AVG. 9MM BFS AVG. .357 MAG BFS (II)
/ AVG. .44 MAG BFS (IIIA)
Level II 0.19 in / 0.86 lbs/ft² 1639 fps 29.00 mm 32.20 mm
Level II (Female) 0.21 in / 0.93 lbs/ft² 1691 fps 23.72 mm 30.70 mm
Level IIIa 0.25 in / 1.14 lbs/ft² 1841 fps 27.00 mm 36.10 mm
Level IIIa (Female) 0.26 in / 1.24 lbs/ft² 1815 fps 26.67 mm 30.71 mm
What threat levels are available in Vortex Soft Armor Panels?

The panels are available in Level II and Level IIIA configurations, both certified to NIJ 0101.06 standards with additional special threat testing.

Does the Vortex Soft Armor stop 5.7×28 mm rounds?

Yes. Both Level II and Level IIIA versions are tested to stop 5.7×28 mm including lead-free variants such as SS197SR and SS195LF.

Are there gender-specific options?

Yes. The panels are offered in gender-neutral, female structured, and female unstructured configurations for optimal fit.

Are these panels made to order?

Yes. All Vortex panels are cut-to-order. Once cut, they cannot be refunded or exchanged. Please confirm sizing before ordering.

What carriers are compatible with Vortex GEN2 panels?

The panels are compatible with the Revolution Carrier and the Traverse Carrier Family or any other bravo cut carrier from Armor Express.

Additional information

Level: No selection

II, IIIA

Gender / Cut: No selection

Gender Neutral, Structured Female, Unstuctured Female

Material: No selection

Twaron® Flex woven aramid + Honeywell Gold Shield

Cover: No selection

Seam-sealed waterproof Ripstop Nylon

Warranty: No selection

5 Years

Reviews

There are no reviews yet

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

Concealable Armor Sizing Guide

Soft Armor Panel Architecture Options

Because all premium soft armor panels are cut strictly to order, choosing the correct panel structure is vital for your safety, mobility, and comfort. Consequently, we provide three distinct engineering layouts to match your physical build and operational requirements:

  • 1. Gender-Neutral / Male Cut: This style uses a standard flat ballistic plane optimized for male and neutral body types. It delivers full, flush coverage across the torso without unnecessary bulk.
  • 2. Structured Female Cut: This style incorporates engineered, built-in bust cups designed to naturally follow anatomical curves. Therefore, it prevents dangerous panel flattening and eliminates gaps at the armpits during dynamic movement.
  • 3. Unstructured Female Cut: This configuration utilizes a flat ballistic plane layout. However, we alter the perimeter pattern dimensions specifically to accommodate shorter female torso lengths and narrower shoulder frames. This option is highly recommended for female operators who prefer a flat fit or place their panels inside external duty carriers.

Please ensure your selected panel layout matches your physical measurements before completing your order. If you need assistance selecting the proper configuration for your duty assignment, please contact our team directly before checkout.

Male Concealable Armor Sizing Guide:

These instructions serve as a direct supplement to our formal Male / Gender-Neutral Custom Sizing Form. To ensure a flawless, secure fit, you must be precise while recording all requested measurements on that document. Consequently, please follow these tactical preparation rules carefully before pulling your measuring tape.

Operational Setup Rules

  • First, the officer must wear their full on-duty gear, including their standard uniform shirt, undergarments, and duty belt during the entire fitting process.
  • Meanwhile, the officer must stand and sit normally without sucking in their stomach or artificially altering their posture.
  • Therefore, a separate partner should always conduct the physical tracking, as you must never attempt to measure yourself.
  • Finally, utilize a soft vinyl or cloth tape measure to ensure precise tracking against body contours.

Required Sizing Tools

Writing Utensil / Digital Device Soft Tape Measure
Armless Chair Completed Measurement Form

Alpha Sizing Baseline

If your custom sizing measurements do not align exactly with the baseline chart below, round your final custom calculations up to the next chart value to determine the appropriate Alpha size.

Alpha SizeChest RangeWaist RangePanel WidthPanel Length
SM33" - 36"28" - 30"1813
MD37" - 40"32" - 34"2014
LG41" - 44"36" - 38"2215
XL46" - 48"40" - 42"2416
2XL50" - 52"44" - 46"2617
3XL54" - 56"48" - 50"2818
4XL58" - 60"52"- 54"3019

Custom Measurement Steps

Torso Width Measurement Diagram

A: TORSO WIDTH (Standing)

Locate the officer’s belly button to clear your alignment baseline. Utilizing that specific reference point, accurately measure around the absolute widest part of the abdomen. Round this tracking up to the nearest whole inch and record the value.

Back Length Diagram

B: BACK LENGTH (Standing)

Identify the most prominent cervical vertebra located at the baseline of the neck. Next, measure vertically straight down the spine to the top edge of the duty belt. Round this length calculation down to the nearest whole inch and record the result.

Center Front Diagram

C: CENTER FRONT (Seated)

Have the officer sit normally inside an armless chair. Locate the top center of the jugular notch where the collarbones meet. Track vertically down the center of the torso directly to the top edge of the duty belt. Round this measurement down to the nearest whole inch and record.

D: OVERLAP / SIDE PROTECTION VALUE

Your choice of carrier style directly determines your required tactical overlap coverage. Therefore, follow the designated rules below to record value D. Note: If you plan to deploy your ballistic panels inside BOTH concealable and external carrier systems, always record the larger External / Outer value.

Concealable Overlap Diagram

Concealable Carriers Only: Record exactly 3″ for Step D.

External Overlap Diagram

External / Outer Carriers: Record exactly 5″ for Step D.

Final Panel Calculation Formula

Calculate Value E by adding your Torso Width (A) directly to your Overlap Value (D):
A + D = E Inches


FRONT WIDTH: Calculate E ÷ 2 (Round up to nearest inch)
FRONT LENGTH: Use Center Front Value (C)
BACK WIDTH: Calculate E ÷ 2 (Round up to nearest inch)
BACK LENGTH: Use Back Length Value (B)

Important Discrepancy Rules: Front Width cannot differ from Back Width by more than 3″. Concurrently, Front Length cannot differ from Back Length by more than 1″.

Female Concealable Armor Sizing Guide:

These instructions serve as a direct supplement to our formal Female Concealable Sizing Form. To ensure a flawless, secure fit, you must be precise while recording all requested measurements on that document. Consequently, please follow these tactical preparation rules carefully before pulling your measuring tape.

Operational Setup Rules

  • First, the officer must wear her standard on-duty undergarments, duty pants, and duty belt during the entire fitting process.
  • Meanwhile, the officer must not artificially adjust the height of her duty belt or stand with an artificially erect posture.
  • Therefore, a separate person should always conduct the physical tracking to ensure total accuracy.
  • Finally, utilize a vinyl or cloth measuring tape. Keep the tape level and snug, but do not overtighten it.

Required Sizing Tools

Writing Utensil Soft Tape Measure (Vinyl/Cloth)
Armless Chair Straight Edge Ruler

Alpha Sizing Baseline

Standard sizing based on bust and waist measurements for Armor Express female concealable body armor. Sizes in inches; select the closest match or opt for custom if between ranges.
SizeBustWaistFront PanelRear WidthRear HeightFront WidthFront Height
SM34" - 35"27" - 28"SM-REG17131713
MD36" - 38"29" - 31"MD-REG18131813.5
LG39" - 41"32" - 34"LG-REG20142014
XL43" - 45"35" - 38"XL-REG22142214.5
2XL47" - 49"40" - 42"2XL-REG24152415
3XL51" - 53"44" - 46"3XL-REG26152615.5
4XL55" - 57"48" - 50"4XL-REG28162816

Custom Measurement Steps

Female Armor Measurement Steps Overview

Chest Measurement Diagram

A: CHEST / BUST MEASUREMENT (Standing)

Measure the fullest part of the chest by wrapping the soft tape directly under the arms, smoothly across the bust line, and straight around the shoulder blades. Round this number up to the nearest whole inch.

Layout Rule: If choosing a Structured Female layout, measure naturally over the apex of the bust line. If choosing an Unstructured Female layout, ensure the tape lays flat across the chest tissue without compressed distortion.

Torso Girth Diagram

B: TORSO GIRTH (Standing)

Wrap the tape horizontally around the officer’s waist at the widest part of the abdomen, using the center of the navel as your primary baseline reference. Round this tracking up to the nearest whole inch.

Back Length Diagram

C: BACK LENGTH MEASUREMENT (Standing)

Track vertically from the most prominent cervical bone located at the base of the neck straight down to the top edge of the duty belt. Round this total back length metric down to the nearest whole inch.

Seated Suprasternal Notch Diagram

D: SEATED SUPRASTERNAL NOTCH TO DUTY BELT (Seated)

Have the officer sit comfortably inside an armless chair. Next, place your straight ruler horizontally across the apex of the bust line. Measure vertically from the bottom edge of the suprasternal notch down to the top of the duty belt, routing over the ruler alignment. Round down to the nearest whole inch.

Standing Suprasternal Notch Diagram

E: STANDING SUPRASTERNAL NOTCH TO DUTY BELT (Standing)

While the officer stands normally, position the straight ruler horizontally straight across the bust line. Track vertically from the bottom of the suprasternal notch down to the top edge of the duty belt, and round down to the nearest whole inch. We utilize this specific measurement as an essential reference point to calculate proper armor coverage transitions between sitting and standing profiles.