With the rise of laser, microwave, and energy weapons, we are returning to a time of armor.
Copper or silver chainmail disrupts emfs.
Kevlar or silk underneath will slow projectiles.
Metal shells with ornamentation - angular lines, mirrored surfaces, rounded corners, will prevent detection and blunt force.
With all new cars being vulnerable to hacking and control, horses will become a viable option for mobility again.
So let them move towards "the future". We will become beautifully armored knights again. With purpose.
Kevlar's ok for small rounds, but try a simple shotgun on a vest and see how great your protection is. Good luck!
Plates work. And also robot dogs will probably be carrying small arms for weight and accuracy. Drones as well.
Idk about the links that guy posted specifically, but I don't think its in the wrong wheelhouse. At least hes thinking of options and I respect that.
Fast forward past the soyboy. Good luck with your plates, solid armor or whatever else you think is going to help you vs simple buckshot, and that's just a single shot!
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=shotgun+vs+body+armor lol
Nothing stops modern surveillance or modern ballistics