Undoubtedly in response to  constant bleatings that we need yet better and better armor, the military has designed new gear which looks like someone's over—protective mother designed it.  The military hate it, saying it makes them look "goofy"  
 
The critics of existing armor have now succeeded in forcing the creation of more protective armor which seems to create new problems: soldiers can't move too easily in it. It therefore resembles the rules under which military critics would have us operate.
 
Clarice Feldman   5 09 06

Update: Steven Dugger writes us:

It needs to be pointed out that this armor is intended for a specific and very limited purpose. In Iraq, one of the highest casualty rates are from solders manning the exposed turrets on Humvees. Not only are these solders unprotected, but they control the main source of firepower on the vehicle. This makes them prime targets.

Here's a link to an article with more information.

Yeah, it looks stupid.  But then the little yellow hats you have to wear in a construction zone also look stupid too.