Abstract: a first plurality of vertically spaced apart horizontal rows of flexible material attached at intervals to the back panel of the vest defining a sequence of vertically oriented loops, a pad having means for connection to an accessory pouch, a second plurality of vertically spaced apart horizontal rows of flexible material attached at intervals to the pad defining a sequence of vertically oriented loops, whereby the second plurality of rows is adapted to engage the vertical spaces between the first plurality of rows where the loops in the second plurality of rows are laterally offset from the loops in the first plurality of rows by a distance equal to the thickness of the webbing, a pair of retaining straps comprising the legs of a U and having an interconnecting base member and where the legs are each interlaced sequentially through the offset loops of the first and second plurality of rows, a release strap having proximal and distal ends carried within one shoulder panel and having a pull ring attached to