Paintball might just be one of the most thrilling games on the planet enjoyed by all age groups universally. However, there’s no way to master the game without being equipped with the best safety gear possible. Of them all, perhaps the most important item is that of a paintball vest. The best paintball ammo vest options with tank holder and pods spaces allow you to take a load off – literally! Firstly, they form a safety barrier between your upper body and the force of the paintballs, keeping you from harm or bruising. Secondly, they are the most comfortable way of hauling your paintball gear. After all, who wants to lug around a heavy tank, pounds of paintballs, and all your other gear? After all, all that won’t fit in your pockets either!
If you were thinking that they’ll easily slip into holsters, hip packs, and belts, then they can shift and even get uncomfortable. Clearly, out of all the kinds of equipment that are used, a tactical vest plays a vital role in making your game a memorable one. To that end, here are the 13 best paintball vest options for holding your ammo, tank holder, pods, and what-not.
How To Choose The Best Paintball Vests?
Choosing paintball gear needs to be done carefully since everyone has different needs and comfort zones. Whether you’re buying the Best Outfits For Paintball or even the Best Pump Paintball Guns, there are several aspects you need to keep in mind. So, what do you need to keep in mind when it comes to paintball vests? Read on.
Are you just graduating from rental to your own paintball guns? Here are the options for the Best Cheap Paintball Guns.
Protection
One of the prime reasons for buying paintball vests is the protection factor. If the quality of the vest isn’t good, then the pellets will hit you very hard and could even cause serious chest injuries. Thus, you should always go for a well-designed vest that provides high levels of protection. Many people assume that a heavier vest is a better vest, but that isn’t true. Premium grade vests are usually lightweight, and yet offer superior levels of protection.
Capacity
When you’re going for a paintball ammo vest, then its capacity is an important factor to consider. However, if you were to carry all the gear you require with you, such as ammo, tank holder, pods, etc., then the last thing you want is your vest unable to accommodate it all. Also, since you already have a gun in one hand, most of your other operations become one-handed. So, you need a vest that can carry all your battle equipment while you focus on playing. Whether it’s a map, ammo, or water bottle, it’s best to go for vests with larger capacities.
Another factor related to capacity and protection is the vest’s load-bearing ability. Apart from being lightweight, the vest should also be strong enough to carry all the gear you need. Also, it needs to be designed so that the weight is distributed equally around the vest sans making you look clumsy.
Durability
Durability is an important factor in a paintball vest with pods space, or even a paintball vest with tank pouch and tank holder. No matter how wonderful the design is, the last thing you want is your vest not even being able to resist the weather conditions. So, go for paintball vests that can withstand rain, wind, dust, dirt, etc.
Size
Finally, we come to the size of the paintball vest which, if not measured properly, can suck all the fun from the game. When choosing the right size, you need to be comfortable enough to be able to move your arms and torso around. At the same time, your vest shouldn’t be loose, or it defeats the entire purpose of wearing it. Furthermore, it should have straps as well as be easily adjustable around your neck, allowing for a more customized fit.
Which paintball vest has the highest tank space and capacity?
The paintball vest with tank pouch that can hold the largest tank is the Maddog Tactical Paintball Battle Vest. While most other vests can hold tanks up to 68ci in size, this paintball ammo vest can hold a 90ci tank! Made from lightweight and high-quality material, the vest comes with durable YKK zippers, chest and back protection, and has tons of storage space. Finally, it even comes with a mesh liner that makes it immensely breathable.
Gen X Global GXG Paintball Vest
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The Gen X Global GXG Paintball Vest is an absolute beast when it comes to playing in the heat and humidity. This paintball vest with pods space for four pods also has space for a 68ci tank as well as all of your other paintball essentials. What’s more, it does so without making you hot or making you feel weighty. Made from a well-designed mixture of nylon and cotton, this moisture-wicking vest boasts a breathable mesh body. Moreover, it comes with a plethora of strap adjustments, which makes its one-size-fits-all design really suitable for a whole lot of different body types and sizes. Since it’s lightweight, it can be used to play paintball for hours together in summer too. Finally, the extra pockets come in handy for carrying all your odds and ends.
Pros:
- Velcro pockets stay shut during gameplay.
- Has CO2 holders.
- Holds a 68ci tank and 4 pods.
- Mesh design keeps you cool and the vest light.
Cons:
- The mesh material isn’t protective for close combat.
Maddog Tactical Paintball Attack Vest
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One of the best paintball vest with tank holder options is the Maddog Tactical Paintball Attack Vest. It has room for a 68ci tank, but it can hold so much more. There’s a lot to like about this vest, starting with the fact that it’s very well-ventilated and lightweight. If you hate wearing a belt pack, then this is basically a great way to store all your paintball ammo. It even has space for six pod holders, as well as multiple pockets for other essentials. If you’re a larger than average person, then the well-designed adjustable side cinch clips allow the vest to expand to fit your body size while making it breezy and cool to wear at the same time. All in all, the super lightweight vest is the perfect gear for storing your tanks and pods more securely than a belt, and that too without adding bulk.
Pros:
- Fits up to a 64ci tank.
- Adjustable buckle sides for a perfect fit.
- 6 Pod holders, with 2 rear and 4 frontal ones.
Cons:
- Loose fit for smaller folks and smaller teens.
BT Paintball Vest Chest Rig
11
Leave all the heavy lifting to the BT Paintball Vest Chest Rig, an excellent paintball vest with pods space. In fact, this paintball vest has space for up to 6 pods, which is more than most other vests in the market. Additionally, this one even holds a tank thanks to the specific tank feed hole, which is very convenient too. It’s loaded with Molle (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) for attaching all your pouches and packs that you require for playing paintball to the best of your abilities. In addition to all of the above, it even has a belt support loop for supporting a thigh rig or which can also be used for carrying the paintball harness or belt. Weighing just 2.15 lbs, this is one lightweight vest. Overall, the open design not only fits players of all sizes but also keeps you cool at the same time.
Pros:
- Holds 6 pods.
- Breathable and lightweight.
- Plenty of Molle straps.
- Loops for thigh rig, harness, or belt.
Cons:
- The pod holders aren’t removable.
MGFlashForce Tactical CS Field Vest
10
An excellent paintball vest with tank holder is the MGFlashForce Tactical CS Field Vest. Besides having enough storage for a huge tank, the vest also has space for three pods, batteries, and even a water pocket for carrying water in case you get parched playing in the sun. What you’ll particularly love about this vest is that it’s adjustable at the sides and the shoulders, so it’ll fit any sized player. Plus, it features molle all around, so you can attach packs and pouches just about everywhere. Made from 600D nylon material, the durable and long-lasting vest also features well-sewn seams that ensure that the vest is anti-ripping. Finally, it offers small amounts of protection both at the front and the back, with open sides so it won’t weigh you down.
Pros:
- Well-designed, properly spaced, and straight molle.
- Stores a lot of ammo.
- Made from well-sewn and top-quality 600D material.
- Available in five colors.
Cons:
- No dedicated pockets for pods.
Maddog Tactical Paintball Battle Vest
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If you’re a lover of everything camo, then you’ll love the Maddog Tactical Paintball Battle Vest. A top-notch paintball vest with pods space, this one might be more pricey than other Maddog vests, but it’s absolutely worth every cent. There’s a lot to be loved about this vest, starting with the fact that it’s made from very high-quality material that’s also lightweight. What’s more, it also features high-quality and durable YKK zippers and also boasts stitching that’s tight and straight. Unlike other lighter and cheaper paintball vests, this one also adds some decent levels of back and chest protection. Moreover, it’s mesh-lined as well, which means you’ll stay comfortable thanks to its breathability. If that wasn’t enough, the vest has lots of storage inside and out, with enough pockets to store gear for a long game.
Pros:
- Holds 6 pods and a 90 ci tank.
- YKK zippers.
- Adjustable length, shoulder, and sides.
Cons:
- A bit loose for adult players who’re small-sized.
GXG Deluxe Tactical Paintball Vest
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If you want dedicated space for your 68ci tank in your vest, then the GXG Deluxe Tactical Paintball Vest with tank holder is just about perfect. It has a specific place to hold your tank, no matter how large, on your back. At the same time, it has lots of space for holding four pods as well as two frontal pouches and zippered pockets at the front and the back. Despite being lightweight, the vest offers decent levels of protection at the front and back if you get hit. Besides the contouring foam, the vest also has a movable radio pouch, a hydration sleeve unit, 10 tube holders, and even 6 moveable vertical harnesses for adjustment. If you’re someone who likes all your molle space in-built into the vest, then this is the one for you.
Pros:
- Padded for back, abs, and chest protection.
- Adjustable at the shoulders and sides for a tailored fit.
- Lots of pockets, pouches, and tank and pod storage.
Cons:
- The molle isn’t removable.
Tippmann Pro Tactical Vest
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Tippmann has a long and reputed legacy when it comes to paintball gear, and the Tippmann Pro Tactical Vest is no exception. One of the best options for paintball vest with pods space, this tactical vest boasts a nice and breathable mesh upper that helps you stay comfortable by wicking moisture, no matter how long you stay out in the field. What’s more, it even comes with an internal belt harness for supporting a belt in case you need to stash more gear for playing a longer game. If that wasn’t enough, this vest has a rare horizontal tank storage space on the back. It allows you to lace the line on either your right or left side, which is an excellent touch. Rounding up the features of this paintball ammo vest is the back storage for six pods and adjustable shoulders and sides for a customizable, secure fit.
Pros:
- Frontal map and radio storage pockets.
- Horizontal tank back storage.
- Internal belt harness to support extra storage if you need it.
- Adjustable sides and shoulders for a secure, custom fit.
Cons:
- Might be slightly bigger and loose for adults with a smaller frame.
Barbarians Tactical Molle Vest
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If you’re interested in playing mag-fed paintball, then look no further than this amazing paintball ammo vest in the form of the Barbarians Tactical Molle Vest. Firstly, the vest is available in four stylish color options that’ll help with stealth on the field – black, black python, green, and tan. You’ll find space for all your gear on the vest, including that for mags, radio, pistol, and batteries. So, you’ll find 2 internal document pouches. a flashlight pouch, a mesh hydration bag, a phone pouch, a removable bullet holder, an accessory pouch, and even three equipment and rifle magazine pouches each. Made from 600 D nylon material, the vest is resistant to water, with the paint washing right off and not leaving stains. Furthermore, the rear modular webbing molle panel is helpful for attaching additional pouches and camouflage gear material. Rounding up the features are the 2 D-rings.
Pros:
- Breathable, mesh-lined, and lightweight.
- Lots of pockets and pouches.
- Shoulder and side adjustments.
- 600D nylon material is durable and paint-resistant.
Cons:
- No space for pods.
Maddog Tactical Paintball Sport Vest
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Do you want a paintball vest with tank pouch and pods space both? Then go for the Maddog Tactical Paintball Sport Vest, which has a much larger tank space as compared to the other Maddog vests. In fact, this paintball ammo vest has space to hold a 90 ci tank, as opposed to the usual 64ci tanks that most vests can hold. This is a great feature, even though this vest has space for just four pods instead of six. Unlike most other vests, this vest offers a well-built layer of protection from getting hit, thanks to the bit of padding as well as the meaty material. However, what’s most impressive about this vest is how well-designed its ammo spaces are. You’ll find in-built elastic pod holders with ripcords that literally eject your pods out fast, helping you play quickly. Finally, you’ll find extra storage pockets for storing sundry stuff.
Pros:
- Padded back and chest.
- Has storage pockets and CO2 bands.
- Holds 4 pods and has a place for a 90ci tank.
Cons:
- Adjusts at the sides, but not at the shoulders.
vAv Yakeda Tactical Vest
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Yet another excellent paintball ammo vest is the vAv Yakeda Tactical Vest, whether you’re playing paintball with mag-fed guns or airsoft. If you’re a sucker for well-designed vests with lots of space, then this is perfect for you. This vAv vest has well-spaced and ample molle all across the back, allowing you to configure it the way you want, complete with your own molle pouches. What’s more, it even includes two radio pouches, a command pouch, three magazine pouches, and plenty of pockets for whatever you might need during the game. Available in four colors, the vest is made from robust 1000D nylon fabric that is waterproof, lightweight, and offers excellent wear resistance. Featured in sizes S from XX-Large, this fully adjustable vest is what you need for playing an amazing game.
Pros:
- Back and chest protection.
- Shoulder and size adjustments.
- Ample molle with several molle and Velcro pouches included.
Cons:
- Not great for storing pods.
Action Village Warrior Tactical Paintball Vest
3
The Action Village Warrior Tactical Paintball Vest is one of the best options for paintball vest with pods space. This vest holds four 140-150 round paintball tubes, which allows you to carry an additional 560 paintballs. So, when you combine it with 200 paintballs in your paintball gun loader, then you’re packing over 750 paintballs. Even then, the vest is ultra-lightweight and allows you to comfortably carry pods as well as a 68ci tank without adding any bulk. At the same time, the breathable mesh material construction allows you to stay while staying cool. Rounding up the features of this tactical mesh vest is the tank pouch on the back as well as the two additional pockets on the front.
Pros:
- Holds pods more securely and comfortably than a harness or belt.
- Extremely breathable and lightweight.
- Very affordable.
Cons:
- The vest isn’t adjustable.
Redemption Tactical Airsoft Paintball Vest
2
The Redemption Tactical Airsoft Paintball Vest is one of the best paintball ammo vest options for more reasons than one. Designed for playing both paintball and airsoft, the vest features a well-designed and spacious molle all around it. In fact, it even features a molle pouch on the back as well as molle mag storage that comes included with it. What’s more, the vest is comfortable since it’s adjustable at both the shoulders and the sides. So, you get great protection from airsoft and paintball pellets due to the heavy material, as well as a close yet comfortable and breathable fit. Made from 1000D indestructible nylon, this vest even comes with a free American flag velcro patch and a separate velcro area for attaching even more patches!
Pros:
- Lots of molle space and pouches.
- Made from 1000D nylon.
Cons:
- No velcro attachments.
Planet Eclipse Paintball Tactical Load Vest
1
Sitting atop the list of best paintball ammo vests is the Planet Eclipse Paintball Tactical Load Vest, which is also one of the best options for a paintball vest with pods space. It has more pods space than any other vest on this list – it holds up to 16 pods! What’s more, it holds larger pods, despite having just six dedicated pods space. This thick vest offers protection both to the back and the front. Besides being adjustable both at the shoulders and the sides, the paintball vest even comes with a few molle straps and a dedicated remote tank holder. What’s more, it even has straps at the bottom that can hold a pod belt or a holster. Rounding up the features are two inner zippered pockets in case you want to carry any valuables.
Pros:
- Two zippered inner pockets for valuables.
- Straps at the bottom.
- Holds 16 pods!
- Adjusts at the shoulders and side.
Cons:
- None, really.
