Armor tips & tricks in modded Rim World

Hi folks, I wanted to ask you for tips & tricks regarding armor in modded Rim World.

There's a bunch of analyses and breakdowns for Vanilla in the internet, but I can't seem to find anything for modded Rim World.

Can the standard Flak Vest + Devilstrand Duster be substituted/augmented with modded protective apparel?

I'm still pretty new to this, but I'll share a few things I learned:

• Vanilla Factions Expanded - Medieval introduces Tabards, which are worn On top and cover Torso and legs. Since they don't conflict with anything, there's no reason not to wear one (?)
  • Your pawns can wear a Tabard on top of a late-game power armor for that WH40k flair.
  • Devilstrand tabard (normal) has armor Armor - Sharp 28%, Armor - Blunt 7.2%, Armor - Heat 60%.
  • Thrumbofur tabard (normal) has Sharp 41%, Blunt 7.2%, Heat 30%
• Black insect chitin from Alpha Animals is a leather material with following multipliersMax HP: 150%, Sharp: 175%, Blunt 100%, Heat 150%, Insulation 10.0C/10.0C, Beauty 170%
  • Great material for protective apparel in temperate climates.
  • You're almost guaranteed to get raided by the Black Hive if you're playing with Alpha Animals mod enabled.
  • Black insect chitin tabard (normal) has armor Sharp 35%, Blunt 20%, Heat 30%
• (021) Dragons Not Included adds pauldrons for Middle accessory slot. They cover whole arms, including fingers and Steel knight pauldrons of normal quality have Armor - Sharp 75%, Armor - Blunt 46%, Armor - Heat 27%

How do you equip your colonists? Do you have any must-have pieces of apparel you keep crafting?