Abstract: A body armor system having improved impact energy absorbing characteristics includes a projectile penetrant inhibiting layer and an impact energy absorbing layer positioned in overlying relation to one side of the projectile penetrant inhibiting layer such that the impact energy absorbing layer is adapted to absorb the impact energy from an incoming projectile. The impact energy absorbing layer spreads at least a portion of the impact energy in the plane of the impact energy absorbing layer. An anti-spalling layer is positioned on the opposite side of the projectile impact inhibiting layer. In another aspect of the invention, the impact energy absorbing layer contains a foam to further enhance impact energy absorption. Additionally, a temperature stabilizing means such as a phase change material is placed within the impact energy absorbing layer and provides thermal regulation.