Can soldiers wear ear protection while training with the IOTV/IBA during field training events?

Soldiers can wear ear protection while training with the Individual Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) or Improved Body Armor (IBA) during field training events, but this is contingent upon the ear protection being APEL (Authorized Protective Earplug List) approved. The APEL designation ensures that the ear protection meets specific military performance and safety standards. This allows soldiers to effectively combine necessary auditory protection with their body armor, ensuring they can hear important commands and situational sounds while still being safeguarded against harmful noise levels.

In certain environments, maintaining hearing protection is essential, particularly when gunfire, explosions, or other loud sounds are prevalent. However, the requirement for the ear protection to be APEL approved ensures that the gear does not compromise safety or performance. Ultimately, this option maintains a balance between operational effectiveness and soldier protection during training exercises.