How does stab proof material work?

The stab resistance mechanism of anti-stab materials is not energy absorption, but to prevent blade/spike penetration and harm to the human body. Therefore, increasing the out of plane shear strength (or hardness) and bending stiffness of stab proof materials is crucial. So, a good anti-stab material should have high strength and hardness, as well as good fiber shear resistance and tight organizational structure.