Hey, I’m Andy Kihl, owner and operator of Green Cove Tactical. I’ve worn every kind of gear imaginable—some good, some bad, and some that made me question my life choices. Today I want to talk about load-bearing equipment (LBE), something every serious outdoor enthusiast, tactician, or hunter should know about.
Whether hiking into the woods, carrying supplies on patrol, or just trying to stay organized at the range, understanding LBE can mean the difference between a good day and a bad one. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way.
What is Load-Bearing Equipment
First off—what is load-bearing equipment? In a nutshell, it’s gear that carries other gear. Sounds easy right? Well not so fast. Load-bearing equipment comes in all shapes and sizes—chest rigs and plate carriers, belts, backpacks, and vests. The goal? To distribute the weight of your gear so you can move, balance, and most importantly be functional.
Now let’s get into it.
History of Load-Bearing Equipment
Before we get too far in, let’s take a step back. LBE isn’t some modern-day invention. Humans have been improvising ways to carry their tools and supplies for centuries. Ever seen pictures of Roman soldiers with those fancy leather straps and pouches? That was load-bearing gear in its infancy. Fast forward a few thousand years and we’ve gone from leather belts to high-tech modular systems.
For example, in the service, they used to have those old-school ALICE packs (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment). They were great for their time but had their quirks—like digging into your shoulders after a 10-mile hike. Today we have MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) which is like ALICE on steroids (you can see a backpack with MOLLE below). It’s customizable, adaptable, and way more comfortable.
Why LBE Matters
Here’s a quick story. A few years ago I took a group of guys on a backcountry hunting trip. One of them showed up with a regular old hiking backpack thinking it would do the trick. By day two he was begging to borrow a load-bearing vest because his gear was all over the place and his back was screaming. The moral of the story? The right LBE can save your bacon.
I like to say that LBE matters because it keeps your gear where you need it when you need it. You don’t want to be fumbling for a water bottle or flashlight in the middle of the night, trust me. A good system prevents fatigue by distributing the weight evenly across your body. It’s like the difference between carrying a grocery bag with one hand versus using a well-balanced cart (Many studies back this up, too).
Types of Load-Bearing Equipment
Let’s get specific. Not all LBE is created equal and the right choice depends on what you’re doing. Here are some common types:
- Chest Rigs If you’re carrying ammo, radios, or other small tools, chest rigs are a popular choice. They keep everything within arm’s reach and allow for quick access. Plus they leave your back free for a pack if you need to carry extra supplies.
- Plate Carriers These are a bit bulkier and often used by military and law enforcement personnel. They’re designed to hold body armor as well as pouches for gear. If you’re not in a tactical environment they might be overkill—but hey to each their own.
- Load-Bearing Belts Simple and effective these belts are great for hunters or range enthusiasts. They’re perfect for carrying holsters, knives, and small pouches without weighing you down.
- Backpacks Ah, the classic. A good backpack can double as LBE if it’s designed with features like adjustable straps, MOLLE webbing, and multiple compartments. Just don’t grab your kid’s school bag and expect it to perform miracles.
- Combination Systems These are the Cadillac of LBE setups. Think chest rigs that integrate with backpacks or belts that work seamlessly with shoulder straps. They’re versatile but can get pricey.
Material Matters: What LBE is Made Of
One thing people often overlook is the materials used in their tactical gear. I’ve seen gear made from everything under the sun but a few stand out:
- Nylon: Durable and abrasion-resistant.
- Polyester: Lighter but less robust.
- Reinforced Stitching: For heavy-duty use.
- Mesh Panels: For hot climates.
Knowing the materials helps you choose gear that matches your environment and activity.
Ergonomics and Fit: The Key to Comfort
Ill-fitting LBE is a sure way to ruin your day. When fitting your gear pay attention to:
- Adjustable straps and padding.
- Proper weight distribution to prevent strain.
- Avoiding chafing points.
Comfort isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Choosing the Right LBE
This is where it gets tricky. Choosing the right LBE isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. You have to think about what you’ll be using it for, how much gear you’ll be carrying, and your body type.
At Green Cove Tactical I always ask:
- What’s your main activity? Hunting? Hiking? Tactical training?
- How much gear are you carrying? A few items or a full kit?
- How long will you be wearing it? A couple of hours or all day?
Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and avoid buyer’s remorse.
Tips for Using Them Effectively
Now that you have your gear the real fun begins—learning how to use it. Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way:
- Distribute Weight Evenly: Nobody wants to feel like they’re going to tip over. Keep heavier items close to your center of gravity.
- Practice Accessing Your Gear: Muscle memory is key. Spend time figuring out where everything is and practice grabbing it quickly.
- Adjust Your Straps: This is basic but you’d be surprised how many people forget to do it.
- Test It Out: Before you go on a big trip wear your LBE around the house or on a short hike.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced operators mess up sometimes. Here are a few to avoid:
- Overloading Your Gear: Just because you can carry it doesn’t mean you should. Pack smart, not heavy.
- Neglecting Maintenance: Check for wear and tear regularly.
- Ignoring Comfort: Don’t power through discomfort—you’ll pay for it later.
Conclusion
Load-bearing equipment isn’t sexy but it’s one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll own. Take the time to find what works for you and don’t be afraid to adjust. Your gear should work for you—not the other way around. If you need help swing by Green Cove Tactical and I’ll be happy to help.
Stay tactical
Andy
