Body armor and shields beyond battlefield use

Why is Starfleet so rarely shown using body armor or personal shields?

The panel disputes the frequency and usefulness of armor. Replies cite weapon effects, peacetime priorities, and production budgets, while critics point to persistent damage-control and security needs.

The question about Starfleet body armor receives competing recollections of when it appears. One reply argues that armor offers little protection against the weapons involved and points to personal shields in extended material. Clarke objects that long peace does not remove the need for protection during damage control, law enforcement, piracy, or encounters with hostile wildlife. Borg boarding is another reason given to protect personnel as well as improve ships. First Contact is cited as showing armor, while television budgets are offered to explain inconsistent appearances elsewhere. The disagreement remains both operational and interpretive.