A protective body vest is disclosed applicable to industrial and contractor related work for carrying heavy and irregular shaped objects on the user's shoulder. The vest is in the shape of a typical armless vest, but can be adapted to have long sleeves to protect the wearers' arms as well as his torso, neck and shoulder. The vest has thick variable type padding for the vest garment and has a combination hard and soft support for the shoulder pads. Reflective bands on the vest offer protection by giving notice to all around of the wearer's presence.