Soldier allowed padded clothing (5)
I believe the answer is:
gilet
'padded clothing' is the definition.
'soldier allowed' is the wordplay.
'soldier' becomes 'gi' (government issue or general issue**).
'allowed' becomes 'let' (I've seen this before).
'gi'+'let'='GILET'
(Other definitions for gilet that I've seen before include "apparel" , "Body-warmer" , "Sleeveless padded jacket" , "Type of jacket" , "Waistcoat" .)