Abstract: Disclosed is a cummerbund tensioning system configured to join opposing ends of a cummerbund to the rear plate bag of a plate carrier and to adjust the fit of the cummerbund. An example cummerbund tensioning system includes a mounting panel, a tensioning device, a plurality of adapters, and a lace. The lace operably connects the tensioning device to both the mounting panel and the plurality of adapters. The plurality of adapters, in conjunction with the lace, are configured to join a first opposing end and a second opposing end of the cummerbund to the mounting panel. The tensioning device is configured to adjust the fit of the cummerbund by gathering the lace, which draws the opposing ends closer together and tightens the cummerbund around a wearer.

Abstract: A coupling system includes a bridge and a sleeve. The bridge has a first end and a second end, and in some embodiments includes a contoured edge at the second end and/or a row of openings disposed between the first end and the second end. The sleeve defines an internal pocket configured to receive the first end of the bridge through a sleeve opening. A closure mechanism on the sleeve is configured to selectively retain the bridge within the internal pocket. In some embodiments, the closure mechanism fastens behind the contoured edge at the second end of the bridge to resist withdrawal of the bridge from the sleeve. In other embodiments, the closure mechanism includes mating portions configured to fasten together within a selected opening of the bridge to inhibit relative sliding movement between the sleeve and the bridge. The coupling system may be integrated into or coupled to a belt system, a cummerbund, a chest rig, or other load-bearing system.

Abstract: An adjustable cummerbund includes two side panels, each comprising a bridge and a sleeve. Each bridge includes a plurality of spaced openings separated by posts. Each sleeve defines an internal pocket configured to slidably receive an end of the corresponding bridge. A closure mechanism of each sleeve is configured to releasably engage a selected opening in the corresponding bridge, thereby securing the sleeve in position. The adjustable cummerbund is configured for integration with protective apparel, such as plate carriers and tactical vests, to provide rapid girth adjustment for varying torso sizes.

Abstract: An adjustable belt configured to be worn around the waist of a user is disclosed. The adjustable belt includes a bridge having two ends, each end being adjustably connected to a respective sleeve via a closure mechanism. Each sleeve defines an internal pocket configured to receive one end of the bridge, thereby permitting girth adjustment to accommodate a range of waist sizes. The adjustable belt is typically worn over an inner belt and secured to the inner belt by hook-and-loop fasteners. However, in some implementations, the adjustable belt may be worn independently, without the use of an inner belt.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cummerbund tensioning system configured to join opposing ends of a cummerbund to the rear plate bag of a plate carrier and to adjust the fit of the cummerbund. An example cummerbund tensioning system includes a mounting panel, a tensioning device, a plurality of adapters, and a lace. The lace operably connects the tensioning device to both the mounting panel and the plurality of adapters. The plurality of adapters, in conjunction with the lace, are configured to join a first opposing end and a second opposing end of the cummerbund to the mounting panel. The tensioning device is configured to adjust the fit of the cummerbund by gathering the lace, which draws the opposing ends closer together and tightens the cummerbund around a wearer.