Ballistic insoles for military personnel are a vital, though often underrated, component of personal protective equipment. Their purpose is to reduce the risk of foot injuries caused by both fragmentation and bullets. In modern warfare, the lower limbs are among the most frequently injured body parts. The foot is vulnerable not only to direct fragments from landmines, artillery shells, or grenades, but also to secondary projectiles such as debris, metal, and glass scattered by explosions. Injury to the lower leg or foot can not only disable a soldier but may also result in long-term treatment, disability, or amputation. Therefore, protecting this area is clearly justified.
Modern ballistic insoles are made of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) — one of the strongest synthetic materials, offering high impact energy absorption, moisture resistance, and weighing about half as much as Kevlar. Each insole consists of 25 layers of UHMWPE, providing a thickness of around 4 mm and a degree of flexibility that allows it to conform to the foot during walking. A single insole weighs just 87 grams and has virtually no impact on total gear weight.
The protection level is certified to Class 1 according to the Ukrainian standard DSTU 8782:2018. This means the insole can withstand shots from Makarov (9×18 mm) and Luger (9×19 mm) pistols at a distance of 5 meters, with a backface deformation not exceeding 23 mm. Additionally, the product meets NATO's STANAG 2920 (V50) standard, which measures resistance to high-speed fragments. A V50 value of 500 m/s or more confirms the insole’s ability to stop fragments traveling at that speed — which is crucial in blast scenarios where fragments strike from below at an angle not typically covered by other armor.
These insoles cause no discomfort and require no special footwear or preparation. They are compatible with all standard military boots, including combat and tactical footwear. They can be worn continuously or during specific operations. Their flexibility, water resistance, and low weight make them suitable even for long-term wear in the field.
Given their high effectiveness, ease of use, and practical benefits, ballistic insoles should be included in every soldier’s personal protection kit. Together with a helmet, body armor, groin and shoulder protection, they contribute to comprehensive defense against fragmentation threats from all directions.
The manufacturer of these insoles is ARMA, a Ukrainian company specializing in military-grade personal protective solutions. The insoles are tested to both national and NATO standards, proven in combat, and have received positive feedback from the front lines.
In conclusion, ballistic insoles are not just an accessory — they are a scientifically sound and battlefield-proven protection tool. Their use is a rational decision in terms of tactical safety, combat readiness, and personnel survival.
