Choosing the Best Armor for a Zombie Apocalypse: Full Plate or Modern Gear?

In the event of a zombie apocalypse, the choice of armor can make a significant difference between survival and peril. When considering the best protection against the horde, whether to opt for full plate mail or more modern options is a crucial decision.

Full Plate Armor: An Overpowered Solution?

The idea of donning full plate armor might seem like a no-brainer, symbolizing the ultimate protection. However, upon closer inspection, full plate armor’s weight and effectiveness in a zombie apocalypse scenario are questionable. An average weight of 30 kilograms, including the helmet, makes it burdensome and not conducive to extended scavenging and trekking. Moreover, for the average person, the training required to wear and move in full plate armor is extensive, turning it into a hindrance rather than an asset.

The Case for Leather and Chainmail

While full plate armor is overpowered against zombies, it is critically underpowered against human adversaries. Zombies primarily rely on their teeth, which can be stopped with relatively light protection like leather or denim. This leaves the wearer relatively safe from the zombie threat. On the flip side, humans are more likely to have access to firearms, and even the weakest firearms can easily penetrate full plate armor. As such, leather and chainmail, which provide sufficient protection while being lighter and more heat-resistant, are more practical options.

Modern Armor as the Best Solution

Given the need for versatile protection, modern armor represents the best choice. Modern body armor and flexible vests like the Safelife Defense FRAS vest offer a high degree of protection against rifle rounds. They also provide the flexibility needed for quick movement and the ability to add additional plates for added protection, such as a solid plate placed in front of the FRAS vest.

Additional Protection for Extremities

For added protection of the limbs, DIY options like tires can be used. Tires are excellent for protecting against old-fashioned weapons and bites, making them a practical choice. Another option is industrial or reenactment chainmail, which can provide further defense against bites and other non-projectile threats.

Ultimate Protection: A Comprehensive Armor Suite

In terms of the top-tier armor, one might consider a comprehensive suite like the “post-apocalyptic viking warlord armor” created for an imaginary story. This suite includes a FRAS vest with level 4 AR 500 steel plate for the chest and police riot armor for the extremities, all layered under a divers' titanium mail shark suit. This ensemble provides optimal protection against both zombies and human adversaries, ensuring maximum survivability.

Conclusion

Choosing the right armor for a zombie apocalypse requires a balance between weight, effectiveness, and versatility. While full plate armor might seem like the ultimate defense, it is more suitable as a last resort due to its heavy weight and limitations. Instead, modern armor offers a practical and effective solution, providing both protection and mobility. Whether opting for a simple FRAS vest or a comprehensive ensemble, the key is to select armor that best fits the specific threats one is likely to encounter in a post-apocalyptic setting.