Load-bearing equipment (LBE) and tactical belts are currently used by all branches of the armed forces of developed countries to optimally distribute weight across the body with body armor and relieve the main load from the shoulders and spine. It is used both in conjunction with tile carriers and separately from them on a belt system (suspenders).
The main difference between shoulder and harness systems and tactical belts is the weight distribution. In this type of equipment, the bulk of the weight is on the belt, which significantly reduces the load on the back and shoulders.
Belt and shoulder systems are popular among soldiers, especially in reconnaissance and infantry units, whose activities involve rapid changes of positions and constant movement. Belts and LBE are distinguished by their versatility and a wide range of adjustments, which is important when performing combat missions. The choice of a particular type of load-bearing equipment should be made based on the tasks to be performed.
A specific advantage of belt systems over classic “unloading” systems is the various options for pouch placement. This is important for specialists whose tasks involve covert movement over long distances and crawling, when the classic frontal positioning of the ammunition package, as well as its main weight, are undesirable. By moving the pouches to the sides, the task becomes more comfortable, the equipment remains intact, and the vertical silhouette is reduced when the soldier is lying on the ground.
Load-bearing belt:
A load-bearing belt with three rows of MOLLE cells can additionally perform a role somewhat similar to that of an athletic belt: to provide an additional support point for the spine, working as a kind of corset, and keep the lower back warm during physical activity while performing a combat mission.
Load-bearing system:
It has some advantages over the load-bearing belt and allows you to place additional weight on the straps. Usually, shoulder MOLLE slings are used to attach essentials such as tactical flashlights, a pouch with a tourniquet, a pouch for a small radio station, knives, and sling cutters to have quick access to them.
It is a common mistake to put all the weight on the straps, with the belt hanging from the hips and not providing any support. A properly fitted load-bearing system, if you unhook its straps, should sit securely on the waist without support, but should not be too tight to interfere with proper blood circulation. The shoulder straps should only serve as a support.
When choosing any of these types of equipment, special attention should be paid to the quality of the fittings, the main material, and the quality of the seams.
They are available in the following colors: khaki, coyote, olive, black, multicam, etc., and made of the following materials: Cordura, high-quality nylon.
