The Citizen Armor Covert Female Body Armor and Carrier is a full-coverage HG2/IIIA-rated concealable vest built specifically for the female body. Front, back, and side ballistic protection is integrated into a contoured carrier that follows the natural curves of the female torso. The outer shell is constructed from mini rip Nylon with a Tricot facing for hook-and-loop patch placement, and the interior lining is 100% A.M.Y./Sorbtek Polyester Mesh with active moisture and odor management. Standard and Prestige armor layups are available in sizes XS, S, M, L, and XL, all in black.

Who this is for

• Female professionals and first responders: who need discreet all-day ballistic protection that moves with the body without advertising its presence under a uniform or street clothes
• Everyday carriers: who want a concealable vest compatible with appendix or hip carry and won't sacrifice comfort during long-duration wear
• Anyone prioritizing female-specific fit: where generic unisex armor leaves gaps or causes discomfort, this carrier is cut and contoured to fit female body proportions out of the box

Threat coverage

The Covert Female vest is rated HG2/IIIA, the highest concealable soft armor designation under NIJ 0101.07 and its legacy counterpart NIJ 0101.06 Level IIIA. At this level the armor is independently tested at an NIJ-accredited laboratory — OBL Testing Facility — against NIJ standard threat parameters. HG2/IIIA coverage addresses common handgun threats including 9mm, .40 S&W, and .44 Magnum at standard test velocities.

This vest does not stop rifle-caliber threats. For rifle-rated protection, a hard armor plate worn over or inside a plate carrier is required. The Covert vest is a standalone soft armor system and is not designed to accept hard plates.

Concealability and comfort

The carrier's sleek front profile allows it to disappear under loose clothing or a sweater without printing. Adjustable large-format straps provide a personalized fit, and the back and side panels adjust via hook-and-loop closures so the vest can be dialed in without tools. The 100% A.M.Y./Sorbtek Polyester Mesh interior wicks moisture, controls odor, and breathes during extended wear. The DWR Antimicrobial coating on the fabric adds protection against everyday stains and microbial buildup, keeping the vest wearable through consecutive shifts.

The mini rip Nylon outer fabric keeps the shell strong while minimizing added bulk. The Tricot layer on top of the outer fabric provides a secure surface for hook-and-loop morale patches or ID panels. Reviewers report completing all-day foot patrols and full shifts without fit loss or fatigue.

Care and maintenance

The outer carrier layer is washable. Standard domestic care applies to the shell; remove ballistic panels per manufacturer instructions before laundering any fabric component. The armor panels themselves should not be machine washed. The vest is manufactured in the USA to NIJ standard specifications. Standard and Prestige layup options differ in panel construction — see the Citizen Armor Standard vs. Prestige comparison for details on which layup suits your threat environment and comfort requirements.

Specifications

Fit and carrier compatibility

The Covert Female vest is a complete armor-and-carrier system — ballistic panels and carrier ship together. It is designed for female body proportions and is sized XS through XL. A detailed female sizing chart is available on the Citizen Armor website to match your measurements to the correct size. Measure carefully before ordering; as noted by the brand's customer base, this product is non-refundable once sized and shipped. If you have questions about fit between two sizes, contact us before placing your order.

Frequently asked questions

What is NIJ Level IIIA / HG2 and what does it stop?

HG2 is the NIJ 0101.07 designation for soft armor tested against high-velocity handgun threats — equivalent to legacy Level IIIA under NIJ 0101.06. It addresses threats including 9mm FMJ, .40 S&W, and .44 Magnum at standard test velocities. It does not stop rifle-caliber rounds. If rifle threats are a concern, a separate Level III or Level IV hard plate is required.

Will this vest stop rifle rounds?

No. HG2/IIIA soft armor is rated for handgun threats only. Rifle rounds from 5.56, 7.62, or similar calibers will defeat this vest. For rifle-rated protection, a hard armor plate worn in a plate carrier is the appropriate solution. This vest is not designed to accept plates.

What is the difference between the Standard and Prestige layups?

Both layups carry the same HG2/IIIA threat rating. The Prestige layup uses a different panel construction that affects weight and flexibility. Citizen Armor's Standard vs. Prestige comparison page outlines the specific differences; contact us if you need help selecting the right layup for your use case.

How does this conceal under everyday clothing?

The sleek front profile and female-specific cut allow the vest to disappear under a loose shirt or sweater without printing. Multiple reviewers report wearing this vest undetected through full workdays and patrol shifts. The hook-and-loop side and back adjustments let you fine-tune the fit so the armor stays flush against the torso.

Can I wash this vest?

The outer carrier layer is washable. Remove the ballistic panels before laundering the carrier shell. Do not machine wash the ballistic panels themselves. The DWR Antimicrobial coating provides day-to-day stain and odor resistance between wash cycles, reducing how often a full wash is needed.

Can this vest be shipped to my state?

This vest cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state body armor restrictions. 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. It is otherwise legal for civilians to purchase and wear this vest throughout the United States.