Looking for realistic type protective gear.

[TonyU]

Maybe someone can help. I did a search here, but it doesn't seem to be covered. Either that or I couldn't find it.
I'm looking for realistic type protective gear. Something that protects the groin, body and head for some realistic type defenses. For example equipment that can take good head shots, or groin strikes. Or if you have any suggestion on equipment that you might have modified or are currently ushing.
I'm looking for something at moderate cost and that can be worn by most since I found one particular company that unfortunate every gear has to be custom fit to the instructor.
Thanks in advance.

[Dennis Monk]

Have you tried the Redman suits?
They are kind of expensive though.

[Cliff Hargrave]

Redman - still hurts, cant go full contact, tears up

FIST - takes much more contact, more durable (cordura), bulky and limits movement.

HIGH GEAR (Tony Blauer) - Haven't seen it, but I saw a promo video and looks promising.

All three are expensive.

[Dennis Monk]

Redman - still hurts, cant go full contact, tears up



At the county, we have had our Redman gear for several years. You don't mean to tell me that the duct tape is anything but standard equipment, do you?

[Cliff Hargrave]

The ones at the academy have some duct tape too.

[RA Miller]

I've used RedMan, HighGear and HitMan.

The HitMan is too bulky to move in but you can take good shots. We found it too hot to wear, couldn't give realistic resistance.

RedMan is decent mobility, poor protection and not Simunitions compatible.

HighGear is the best I've used so far. Excellent mobility, good protection and Simunition compatible. You can even wear duty gear over it. Does not have a built in cup, however.

There are some generic caveats- if you can move in the armor, it can't protect the joints completely. We've blown a knee through the HitMan which by far has the best protection. If you know how to hit, a good helmet will protect the head, but not completely protect the neck.

Hope this helps, Tony.

Rory

[TonyU]

Yeap, you guys have been a great help.
I failed to mention that I was aware of the REDMAN (academy owned)and FIST (dojo owned once but sold) gear, but I also didn't like them for their limitations already mentioned.
I'll look into HIGHGEAR.
Thanks again.