Body armor, even in its earliest iterations, has been designed primarily with the proportions of men in mind. While the need for equality has long been acknowledged, concrete progress has always been a concern. Logistik Unicorp’s Women’s Armour System promises to change the game, placing women at the center of innovation. Not as “small men”, but as models in their own right – worthy of protection and specialized products adapted to their proportions. BodyArmorNews spoke with Karine Bibeau (VP at Logistik), Katrina Proulx (Operational Equipment Designer at Logistik), Laura Hamel (Communications and PR Advisor at Logistik) and Étienne Lamoureux (General Manager at sister company and collaborator Mawashi) about their recent achievement of the Body Armor Innovation Award 2026.
The Women’s Armour System
Logistik’s solution put inclusiveness at the center of innovation. The Women’s Armour System is designed to fit up to 99% of the female population. 70 women tested the system, to ensure adequate fit across body types. “We have mannequins, but they don’t really look like people,” comments Laura. The emphasis is on modelling real-world armor after real-world women.
To do this, Logistik and partner NP Aerospace place heavy emphasis on scientific research as the starting point of any product innovation. The Women’s Armour System in particular was inspired by growing literature and testimonies that call out stark inequalities. With this solution, Logistik aims to reduce these barriers. With units ready to be worn in the field, this dream will soon step out of the lab and into the lives of real soldiers.
Innovation across Inequalities
Since 1996, Logistik has been the provider of all Canadian military uniforms. This long history of dedication showcases how Logistik Unicorp embodies the spirit of innovation: after years of work on the Women’s Armour System behind the scenes, they “ wanted to put it out there with the [Body Armor Innovation Award]”.
The current lineup of women’s equipment is inadequate; as Katrina explains, it “reduces their performance, their comfort and their protection”. For soldiers, this is especially concerning – good fit can mean difference between life and death. “Any protective equipment only works if it’s worn correctly and it’s comfortable,” explains Karine.
Katrina puts it best: “How can women feel confident in themselves if they are required to wear equipment they don’t feel confident in?” Logistik, relying on its history of military partnerships, is uniquely suited to tackle these challenges.
Inclusiveness in Action
Logistik’s approach places morphology first. “It’s not one solution fits all, it’s having solutions that can fit everyone”. But beyond the solution itself, Logistik recognizes the importance of providing information to all users on how to make the most of their armor.
Innovations can only push protection so far forward if users do not know how to properly utilize them. In practice, this means added importance is given to user communication, including the provision of proper wear and care instructions. Logistik follows a wider industry trend of prioritizing clear customer communication.
Innovation is Never Over
“It’s never one solution forever”, Karine explains. The scientific methodology employed demands constant reviewing of the latest findings. There is a strong commitment to continued improvement and progressive changes.
Logistik Unicorp and its partners truly embody the spirit of the Body Armor Innovation Award. Not just through the admittedly excellent innovation presented, but through the continued commitment to continue innovating. “Women are the core of this system,” explains Katrina- Logistik’s dedication to ensuring “proper and equal protection” makes them a deserving winner.
