battle vest

(Noun, Related; see "Battle Jacket")

A denim vest, particularly one worn by fans of metal music (colloquially refered to as "metalheads").

The distinction between a battle vest and a regular denim vest is that a battle vest will have patches sewn on indicating which bands the metalhead enjoys listening to. A battle vest may also include studs and/or spikes, however this is not a requirement to be deemed a "battle vest".

Many metal fans will wear these as a sign of dedication to their favorite bands, and as a calling card to fellow metalheads in public spaces; most notably, concerts and festivals. However, you may occasionally find a metalhead in the wild wearing their vest for common daytime activities, such as grocery shopping, or mowing their lawn.

While the vest may make someone appear intimidating, it should be noted that most metalheads are very sociable and amicable people, who simply want to use extreme fashion as a form of self-expression. In addition, most metalheads appreciate other genres of music as well, so don't be surprised if you hear them talking about their favorite rappers or jazz artists too!

"Whoa, did you check out that dude's battle vest?"

"Yeah man, He's got Gojira and Opeth patches sewn on there. He has some damn good taste!"