What Does Riot Gear Consist Of For Law Enforcement
When protests and demonstrations turn violent, law enforcement needs to be prepared with the proper equipment to maintain order and protect themselves. Riot gear offers physical protection for police officers from harm during riots and other large-scale public gatherings.
Below, take a closer look at the different components of riot gear, how they work, and where to get top-quality riot gear.
Riot Gear Product Components
Riot suits consist of several different components designed to protect the wearer in different ways. Here are a few major pieces that help protect law enforcement officers.
Helmets
Helmets are designed to protect the wearer’s head from blunt force trauma. Common materials used in construction include Nomex, nylon, polycarbonate, and other similar materials. The helmet should fit snugly and be comfortable to wear for long periods, as rioters may be engaged in physical activity for hours at a time.
Riot Shields
Shields are used by police to protect themselves from projectiles, blunt force trauma, and other forms of violence. Shields should be lightweight and easy to carry, as officers may need to move quickly while carrying them.
Batons
Baton use among police forces continues despite criticism because batons have proven to be an effective non-lethal way to subdue a violent individual without causing serious injury or death.
Personal Protection
PPE is essential for protecting police officers in the field, no matter the situation at hand. Common materials used in riot gear construction include Nomex for fire resistance, nylon for durability, and polycarbonate for blunt force protection. Riot gear and PPE should be lightweight and comfortable to wear, without causing officers to overheat or have difficulty moving around. Haven Gear suits also have the option to add in ballistic plates or panels, which protect against firearm threats.
Footwear
Footwear is an important part of any riot gear ensemble to help protect the feet from injury and provide traction on slippery surfaces. Common materials used in footwear construction include rubber, leather, and synthetic fabrics. Shoes and boots should be strong, waterproof, slip-resistant, and potentially even have steel toes.
Gloves
Riot gloves protect the hands while providing maximum coverage and protection from various types of injuries from chemicals, burns, sharp objects, etc. They also help protect officers from potential infectious diseases that may be present in an area where a riot has occurred by preventing contact between hands and contaminated surfaces, as well as reducing the risk of injury to officers if they are made to use physical force on rioters.
Face Shields
Face shields help protect officers from projectiles and other physical objects that may be thrown during a riot. With face shields, officers can gain an extra layer of protection for their eyes, nose, and mouth while in a riot situation.
What Does It Protect You From?
Riot gear can protect officers from the following types of attacks:
- Melee attacks
- Crush injuries
- Blunt force trauma
- Stabbing
- Assault
- Battery
- Trips and falls
- Tear gas
- Chemical exposure
- Burns
Smart Product Type Maintenance
To keep riot gear in the best condition, clean the gear. Use cleaning solutions recommended for use with Nomex, nylon, polycarbonate, and other similar materials.
Riot gear should be cleaned and properly stored to ensure that it is ready at a moment’s notice. Keep them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, and make sure they’re safe from physical damage, such as being dropped or crushed.
Browse Our Product Selection Of Top-Quality Tactical Gear Today
Haven Gear only provides the highest quality riot gear. You can be sure that you’re getting armor that will stand up against violent public crowds.
Shop our selection of helmets, suits, shields, and other accessories and make sure your team is prepared and protected.