Cut vests / plates

I agree with most of your thoughts.

I have always liked the straps that go over the top to be long so there was more of an opening up there for cooling.

Also I agree with your theory on how the skin rolls from the cutting but I do like an extra layer of Kevlar not so much for the cuts but for the direct stabs to the chest where the skin doesn't roll due to the angle. The first vest I ever bought had a chest plate in it just for that, but my new one does not so I added the extra layer of kevlar. I think a lot vests went away from the chest plate for better flexion and less weight but I have always been curious of the Ausie style plates because the dogs look super mobile in them. I also got one that had less layers of cordura and more kevlar for weight and mobility.

I still like putting their collar on the normal way but to each their own. The taper from the back to the underbelly the way you drew it is nice too and some of the new ones I have seen are coming that way. All in all I think you have some good and well thought out ideas.