The 10 Best Plate Carriers for 2025
- Jordan
- Jul 11
- 4 min read
Choosing the right plate carrier is not just about looks. It is about safety, comfort, and having gear that actually fits your mission. Whether you are looking for the best plate carrier for heavy loads, a lightweight minimalist plate carrier, or a budget-friendly option that still does the job, there is something here for you.
This list of the 10 best plate carriers for 2025 is in no particular order. Each carrier has different strengths, and the right one for you depends on your body type, budget, and intended use.
Why your plate carrier choice matters
Finding the right plate carrier means thinking about your body, your environment, and your mission. The wrong carrier can chafe, bounce, sag under load, restrict breathing, or fail right when you need it most. The right one moves with you, keeps weight secure, and helps you stay in the fight. That might be defending your home, helping protect your community, or just making sure you are ready for whatever comes.
Most tactical gear brands are either apolitical or traditional gun-culture oriented. The only brand we actively chose to exclude was an Israeli manufacturer, simply because many in left and anti-colonial spaces avoid supporting Israeli defense industries. Beyond that, there are not many, if any, leftist companies making plate carriers. So we focused on what matters most: gear that is built well, suits your needs, and fits your budget.
Best plate carriers for 2025: quick picks
• Best lightweight plate carrier: Crye JPC 2.0 ($279)
• Best for heavy loads: Scarab LT ($338)
• Most modular: Spiritus LV-119 ($410)
• Most underrated value: HRT RAC ($209)
• Best USA-made budget carrier: Raine RTG ($169)
• Most affordable starter: Tacticon BattleVest V2 ($79)
Our picks for 2025
Crye Precision JPC 2.0 – $279
Pros:
• Ultra-lightweight and agile
• Battle-proven durability
• Modular add-ons with zip-on panels and placards
Cons:
• High cost
• Tight plate fit can be tricky
• Minimal padding for long wear
This is the best lightweight plate carrier for people who need maximum mobility with a combat-tested track record.
Velocity Systems Scarab LT – $338
Pros:
• Excellent for heavy loads
• Swivel shoulder straps add comfort
• Works with multiple cummerbunds
Cons:
• Heavy and bulky
• Premium price and limited stock
If you want the best plate carrier for carrying heavy kit all day, this is it.
Spiritus Systems LV-119 – $410
Pros:
• Highly modular and scalable
• Ergonomic design with high-quality stitching
• Compatible with tons of accessories
Cons:
• Expensive once fully built
• Needs some assembly knowledge
• Often backordered
One of the best modular plate carriers on the market for building exactly the loadout you want.
HRT RAC Plate Carrier – $209
Pros:
• Highly modular with zip-on support
• Excellent ventilation
• Quick placard swaps
Cons:
• Heavier than slick minimalist rigs
• Newer brand without decades in the field
• Does not fold up small for storage
Possibly the best underrated plate carrier right now for mixing comfort and modularity without breaking the bank.
Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite 2.0 – $319
Pros:
• Very comfortable with padded shoulders
• Easy don/doff system
• Rugged and durable
Cons:
• Heavy and bulky
• Less MOLLE on the cummerbund
A popular duty carrier that stays comfortable even under big loads.
Velocity Systems Mayflower APC – $155
Pros:
• Affordable but rugged
• Comes with integrated mag pouches
• Proven in military and law enforcement
Cons:
• Basic padding
• Runs a bit small
• No quick-release options
A tried and true simple plate carrier that works great for most civilian uses.
Raine RTG – $169
Pros:
• Super affordable for a USA-made carrier
• Quick-release buckles included
• Adjustable cummerbund with full MOLLE
Cons:
• Lower padding, less comfort
• Needs break-in time
• No modular zip-on upgrades
If you want a budget-friendly plate carrier made in the USA, this is hard to beat.
Shaw Concepts ARC V2 – $580
Pros:
• Has every feature you could want
• Outstanding quality and support
• Extremely stable under load
Cons:
• Heaviest option on this list
• Expensive fully outfitted
• Needs break-in time
A serious investment for serious missions. The best high-end plate carrier if you want everything.
Defense Mechanisms MEPC – $155
Pros:
• Very affordable base price
• Modular and scalable
• Made in the USA, Berry compliant
Cons:
• Plain out of the box
• Adds up in cost with upgrades
• Middle-of-the-road on weight and padding
A great low-cost modular plate carrier that you can expand as needed.
Tacticon BattleVest V2 – $79
Pros:
• Extremely affordable
• Includes mag pouch
• Adjustable cummerbund with MOLLE
Cons:
• Imported with lower durability
• Not meant for heavy daily use
Best ultra-budget plate carrier to get started or use for light range days.
Bottom line on buying the best plate carrier for you
Your gear should match your body, budget, and mission. Ignore the Instagram hype. The best plate carrier is the one that fits well, carries your armor securely, and keeps you moving without distraction.
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