Let’s Talk About Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag
The Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag promises to be a complete solution for riot control and personal protection in high-risk environments. As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of protective equipment, from ballistic vests to tactical helmets. However, a full riot suit is a different beast entirely. The promise of comprehensive protection combined with features designed for operational efficiency is what drew me to this particular product from Monadnock.
Having witnessed firsthand the increasing tensions and potential for civil unrest during my time consulting with law enforcement agencies, I wanted to evaluate a readily deployable, full-body protection system. I needed to see if the Monadnock Exotech offered the agility and protection required to handle volatile situations.
Unboxing the Exotech suit, I was immediately struck by the sheer volume of material. The suit felt substantial, though the weight seemed manageable for short deployments. My initial impression was positive regarding the build quality; the materials appeared robust, with reinforced stitching and strategically placed padding.
Compared to other partial riot gear sets I’ve worked with (such as separate chest protectors, limb guards, and helmets from brands like Hatch and Alta Industries), the Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag aims for seamless, integrated protection. While individual components might offer specialized advantages, the integrated design promised better overall coverage and reduced gaps in protection. My first impression was cautious optimism; I was eager to see how it would perform in a real-world scenario.
Real-World Testing: Putting Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag was a controlled training environment designed to simulate riot conditions. This included drills involving simulated projectiles, physical altercations, and prolonged standing periods in various formations. The temperature that day was moderately warm, about 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and dry.
The suit initially felt cumbersome, requiring some adjustment to movement. However, I quickly adapted to its limitations, discovering the range of motion it did allow. One immediate issue was heat buildup. While the suit undoubtedly provided excellent impact protection, the lack of significant ventilation became apparent within the first hour, leading to considerable sweating despite the moderate ambient temperature.
The biggest surprise was the suit’s limited peripheral vision. While the face shield offered decent frontal coverage, situational awareness was noticeably compromised due to the restricted field of view.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of simulated riot control training, the Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag showed minimal signs of wear and tear, testament to the durability of its construction. The reinforced padding remained intact, and the stitching held up admirably under repeated stress. Cleaning the suit proved relatively straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove dirt and sweat.
Compared to my previous experiences with piecemeal riot gear, the Exotech’s integrated design offered superior overall protection, but at the cost of increased heat retention and reduced maneuverability. While individual components could be adjusted for a more customized fit, the Exotech’s one-size-fits-most approach resulted in some compromises in comfort and range of motion.
Breaking Down the Features of Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag
Specifications
The Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag is designed as a low-profile, two-piece riot gear ensemble. The Manufacturer is Monadnock. It is offered in Black and is Unisex in design.
- Integrated Design: The suit integrates torso, arm, leg, and groin protection into a single unit, minimizing gaps in coverage. This is crucial for maximum safety against projectiles and blunt force trauma.
- Riot Pack: The included riot pack provides numerous attachment points for essential gear, including belt loops, connectors, a radio pocket, and a goggle holder. This allows the user to customize the suit for specific mission requirements and maintain easy access to vital equipment.
- Carrying Case: A durable carrying case is included for convenient storage and transportation of the suit. This ensures the suit remains protected when not in use and simplifies deployment in emergency situations.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the suit’s ability to protect the wearer, its usability in the field, and its long-term durability. The integrated design provides comprehensive protection, while the riot pack allows for mission-specific customization. The carrying case ensures the suit is always ready for rapid deployment.
Performance & Functionality
The Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag excels in providing a high level of impact protection. The padding effectively absorbs and disperses blows from simulated batons and projectiles, minimizing the risk of injury. However, the suit’s functionality is somewhat compromised by its limited ventilation and restricted range of motion.
- Strength: The Exotech’s greatest strength is its comprehensive coverage and robust impact protection. It inspires confidence in high-risk situations.
- Weakness: The suit’s primary weakness is its poor ventilation, leading to significant heat buildup during extended use. Improving airflow would drastically enhance user comfort and reduce the risk of heat-related injuries.
The Exotech largely meets expectations in terms of protection, but falls short in terms of comfort and maneuverability. Future iterations should prioritize improved ventilation and a more ergonomic design.
Design & Ergonomics
The Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag is constructed from durable, impact-resistant materials. The suit feels substantial, but its weight can become tiring during prolonged use.
While the overall design aims for a low profile, the suit’s bulkiness inevitably restricts movement. The one-size-fits-most approach also results in some compromises in fit, particularly for individuals with smaller or larger body types.
The suit’s design could benefit from a more modular approach, allowing users to customize the fit and level of protection based on their specific needs and body type. Incorporating adjustable straps and removable padding would significantly improve ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag appears to be built to last. The materials are robust, and the stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas.
Maintaining the suit is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent is sufficient to remove dirt and sweat. The suit’s durable construction suggests it can withstand years of use in demanding environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag comes with a carrying case and an integrated riot pack. The riot pack features numerous attachment points for accessories such as radios, goggles, and other essential gear.
While the suit itself offers limited customization options, the riot pack’s modular design allows users to tailor the suit to their specific needs. The suit is compatible with most standard tactical accessories, such as radio pouches and goggle mounts.
Pros and Cons of Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag
Pros
- Comprehensive Full-Body Protection: Offers excellent coverage and protection against blunt force trauma and projectiles.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust, impact-resistant materials built to withstand demanding environments.
- Integrated Riot Pack: Provides numerous attachment points for essential gear, allowing for mission-specific customization.
- Included Carrying Case: Simplifies storage and transportation, ensuring the suit remains protected when not in use.
- Relatively Easy to Clean: Can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Cons
- Poor Ventilation: Leads to significant heat buildup during extended use, increasing the risk of heat-related injuries.
- Restricted Range of Motion: The suit’s bulkiness limits maneuverability and agility.
Who Should Buy Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag?
The Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and corrections officers who face potential riot situations or high-risk confrontations. It provides a comprehensive level of protection for individuals who regularly operate in volatile environments.
Individuals who should skip this product include those requiring maximum agility and maneuverability, as well as those working in hot climates without adequate ventilation. The suit’s limitations in these areas may outweigh its benefits.
A must-have accessory for the Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag is a cooling vest or hydration system to mitigate heat buildup during extended use. Also, consider ballistic-rated eye protection for comprehensive coverage.
Conclusion on Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag
The Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag is a robust and comprehensive riot control solution that provides excellent impact protection. While it suffers from limitations in ventilation and maneuverability, its durability and integrated design make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize full-body protection in high-risk environments.
At $539.99, the price is justified for the level of protection and features offered. However, potential buyers should be aware of the suit’s limitations and consider the additional cost of accessories such as cooling vests or hydration systems.
I would recommend the Monadnock Exotech Full Suit With Bag to law enforcement agencies and security personnel seeking a durable and reliable riot control solution. However, it is essential to weigh the suit’s benefits against its drawbacks and consider the specific needs of the user. If complete protection is paramount, the Exotech delivers; just be prepared for the heat.