Riot-related stabbings—whether from makeshift blades, utility knives, or sharpened objects—remain a top threat to officers on the frontlines. Traditional riot gear, while effective against blunt force and projectiles, often lacked dedicated stab resistance or forced wearers to choose between heavy, full-time protection and lightweight mobility. That paradigm is shifting with the rise of detachable stab-proof inserts, or “gallbladder cores,” as industry insiders term them.​

“These cores are the unsung heroes of modern riot armor,” explains Elena Marquez, lead product designer at Global Shield Tactical, a pioneer in the technology. “Our latest riot suit features custom-molded stab-proof gallbladder cores made from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and aramid fiber composites—materials tested to resist 36J of puncture force, exceeding the ISO 13997 standard for stab protection. The key innovation is their detachable design: officers can install the front and back cores in seconds using a secure Velcro and snap system, or remove them when facing low-risk scenarios like peaceful protests, reducing fatigue without sacrificing preparedness.”​

Field tests with law enforcement agencies across Europe and North America have validated the design’s effectiveness. The Berlin Police Department, which adopted the technology earlier this year, reported zero stab-related injuries among officers equipped with the detachable cores during a series of tense demonstrations. “In one incident, an officer was targeted with a sharpened metal rod,” said Captain Markus Weber of the Berlin Riot Control Unit. “The insert absorbed the impact completely—there was no penetration, and the officer suffered only minor bruising. Being able to attach or remove the cores as the situation evolves has been a game-changer for our operational flexibility.”​

Manufacturers are also refining the design to address user feedback. Swiss-based ProTech Gear recently launched its Apex Riot Suit, whose stab-proof gallbladder cores feature a slim, ergonomic profile that contours to the body, eliminating the bulk associated with traditional stab-resistant gear. “Weighing just 350 grams per core, they add minimal load while delivering maximum protection,” notes ProTech’s engineering director, Dr. Lena Fischer. “The cores are also water-resistant and easy to clean, a critical feature for officers working long shifts in harsh conditions. Plus, they’re interchangeable across different sizes of our riot suits, making logistics and equipment management simpler for agencies.”​

Industry experts emphasize that while detachable stab-proof cores enhance protection, they are part of a holistic approach to riot gear safety. “Stab resistance isn’t just about the material—it’s about how the gear integrates with other protective elements like helmets, gloves, and shin guards,” says David Carter, a security technology analyst at the International Association of Law Enforcement Equipment Manufacturers. “What makes these detachable cores so innovative is that they don’t compromise the suit’s ability to withstand blunt force or projectiles. They’re an add-on that addresses a specific threat, giving officers the adaptability they need in unpredictable environments.”​

As demand for versatile riot gear grows, manufacturers are investing in further advancements. Research is underway to develop gallbladder cores with built-in impact sensors that alert command centers to potential injuries, as well as eco-friendly materials that maintain protection while reducing environmental impact. “The future of riot gear is about balance—protection without encumbrance, versatility without complexity,” Marquez adds. “Detachable stab-proof cores are just the beginning; we’re committed to creating gear that empowers officers to stay safe and effective, no matter the situation.”​

For law enforcement agencies grappling with evolving threats, the answer to “Is riot gear stab proof?” is now a resounding “Yes—when equipped with the right technology.” With detachable stab-proof gallbladder cores, riot armor clothing has evolved from a one-size-fits-all solution to a dynamic tool that adapts to the risks at hand. As civil unrest continues to present complex challenges, this innovative design is setting a new standard for safety and flexibility in riot control operations.​