How Trauma Pads Reduce Blunt Force Impact in Body Armor
When it comes to protecting yourself, body armor can save lives. However, many people are unaware of an important addition that can enhance the protection of body armor: trauma pads. While body armor is designed to prevent the penetration of bullets, trauma pads help distribute the force of impact.
In this article, we’re going to describe what trauma pads are, how they function, the materials used in making them, their size and shape, and how effective they are in minimizing blunt-force trauma. Shop Chase Tactical Soft Trauma Armor Insert to your kit and reduce impact trauma with every move.
What is a Trauma Pad?
Trauma pads are inserts that accompany ballistic body armor to dampen the blunt force trauma inflicted by bullets or other projectiles. Even when a bullet fails to penetrate the armor, the energy can still cause severe injury. Trauma pads serve to cushion the impact.
They are typically inserted at the back of the ballistic plate or panel within a vest. They do not provide ballistic protection, but are essential in mitigating the pain and injury caused by the impact.
Materials Used in Trauma Pads
The material composition of trauma pads is important to understanding how they protect you. These materials are specifically selected based on their energy-absorbing capacity and comfort-enhancing function.
Our trauma pads are constructed using a unique mixture of para-aramid fibers. This substance can absorb impact energy, which is important in safeguarding the wearer against backface deformation injuries. It is also comfortable when under no impact because its interfiber links build up soft foam padding. This is particularly useful when worn under a hard body armor system, such as a plate carrier.
Shapes and Sizes of Trauma Pads
The size and shape of a trauma pad are crucial factors in determining its ability to fit and cover various body parts. Having the appropriate one provides coverage and comfort.
A typical trauma pad is rectangular, as it is most effective in covering the cardiac box. Nevertheless, trauma pads are available in different sizes for different functions:
5″ x 7″
5″ x 8″
6″ x 8″
6″ x 9″
9″ x 9″
These are preferred sizes for wearing the trauma pad under a ballistic vest or plate carrier. Larger sizes are:
10″ x 12″
11″ x 14″
11″ x 15″
However, there is still no one-size-fits-all solution. It does boil down to personal preference and body type when deciding on the appropriate trauma pad.
How Effective Are Trauma Pads?
Trauma pads are just a straightforward addition to body armor, but their influence is immense. By absorbing and distributing energy, they reduce injuries that might still be experienced even when the armor itself prevents the bullet from penetrating. Let’s take a closer look at just how effective these pads are.
1. Real Impact Reduction
Trauma pads are very effective in mitigating the blunt force of a ballistic blow. Though they don’t halt bullets, they significantly decelerate the kinetic energy imparted to the body. This serves to prevent bruising, rib fractures, and internal damage.
Experiments demonstrate that trauma pads will decrease backface deformation (BFD), the degree to which the armor penetrates the body upon impact, by a few millimeters. That small difference can be the difference between no hospital visit and a potentially fatal wound.
2. Comfort and Fatigue Reduction
Apart from impact mitigation, trauma pads bring added comfort to your body armor system. They are capable of soaking up sweat, alleviating hot spots, and distributing weight more evenly. This is particularly important for military, law enforcement, and security personnel who must wear armor for an extended period.
3. Cost-Effective Protection Enhancement
Trauma pads are a cost-effective way to provide yourself with additional protection. For a small percentage of the cost of ballistic plates, you can significantly enhance your armor’s ability. Most users consider the added layer worth the cost.
Why You Should Wear Trauma Pads with Body Armor
Trauma pads are an important yet often overlooked addition to body armor. They add a layer of protection that has a direct impact on safety and comfort.
Even if your ballistic plates are the best available, trauma pads have their place. Here are just a few reasons why:
- Increased Safety: Blunt force trauma can be devastating. Trauma pads keep it from happening.
- Increased Armor Life: They cushion, which may extend the life of your armor.
- Comfort for the User: Body armor is sometimes uncomfortable. Pads introduce a softness and breathability factor.
If you’re working with Level III or IV plates, trauma pads can be a big game-changer in terms of total performance in your system.
Selecting the Right Trauma Pad
All trauma pads are not equal. Getting the right one can make a significant difference in terms of performance and comfort.
Purchasing trauma pads involves the following considerations:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the size and shape are compatible with your plates and carrier.
- Material Type: Select the type that best suits your desired level of impact reduction and budget.
- Weight and Thickness: Thicker pads provide greater protection but weigh more. Balance is the key.
- Durability: Higher-quality pads last longer and perform better under repeated use.
Always read reviews and check the manufacturer’s specifications before making a purchase.
Proper Placement and Maintenance
Learning how to wear and maintain your trauma pads means they will last longer and work best. Handling them properly does wonders in maximizing their value.
Applying your trauma pads with the best results requires proper placement:
- Position the pad in the rear of the ballistic plate within the carrier.
- Have it be centered and stable in its position.
- Regularly check for signs of wear and tear.
- Maintenance is minimal but necessary.
- Clean as the manufacturer instructs, and replace worn-out pads immediately.
Conclusion
Trauma pads are a straightforward yet highly effective accessory for any body armor system. Although they do not prevent bullets from penetrating, they dissipate the blunt force impact that can also result in serious injury. Constructed from energy-absorbing materials in various shapes and sizes, trauma pads enhance safety, comfort, and confidence for individuals wearing body armor.
Whether you’re a first responder, soldier, or civilian, trauma pads are a worthwhile investment for added protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do trauma pads make body armor bulletproof?
No, trauma pads don’t stop bullets. They reduce the impact force behind the bullet stopped by ballistic armor.
Can trauma pads be used alone?
No, trauma pads are not rated for ballistic protection and should be used in conjunction with ballistic armor.
How frequently should I replace trauma pads?
Replace them if they are worn, damaged, or after a heavy impact. Otherwise, refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Are trauma pads heavy?
Most trauma pads are lightweight, particularly those based on foam. Heavy gel-filled models have higher impact reduction.
Do trauma pads expire?
Although they don’t have an expiration date, foam and gel materials can deteriorate over time. Check them regularly for optimal performance.