Wearing a holster isn’t just about clipping it to your belt. Comfort, concealment, draw speed, and safety all depend on the type of holster and where you carry it. In this guide, we break down how to properly wear every major type of holster—from IWB and shoulder to ankle and drop leg—so you can find the right fit for your body, gear, and lifestyle.
Quick Comparison Table – Holster Types & Carry Styles
| Holster Type | Best Position(s) | Concealment | Comfort | Ideal For |
|---|
| IWB | Appendix, hip | High | Medium | Everyday carry, low-profile users |
| Shoulder | Under jacket | Medium | High | Long barrels, seated access |
| Ankle | Lower leg (inner) | High | Low | Backups, deep concealment |
| Belly Band | Around torso | High | Medium | Activewear, no belt clothing |
| Chest | Over sternum | Medium | Medium | Hiking, biking, outdoor carry |
| Drop Leg | Outer thigh | Low | High | Tactical, duty, fast access |
| Thigh (strap) | Inner/outer thigh | Medium | Medium | Women’s concealment, skirts/dress |
Holster Fit – What to Consider Before You Carry
Choosing the right holster goes beyond selecting a carry style. The way a holster fits your body, your firearm, and your everyday clothing will directly impact your ability to conceal, move, and react under pressure. Below are four core factors that determine how well a holster setup works for you.
Body Type & Clothing
Your body shape plays a major role in how comfortably and effectively you can wear a holster. Slim or athletic builds may favor appendix or IWB positions, while broader torsos may find better concealment and comfort with strong-side or 4 o’clock carry. If you have a shorter torso, high-riding holsters might dig in or print under clothing.
Equally important is your wardrobe. IWB holsters work well with looser shirts or untucked polos. Belly band or thigh holsters are better suited for outfits without belts. If you wear suits or jackets daily, shoulder holsters may be ideal for both access and concealment.
Gun Size & Configuration
Compact and subcompact pistols are much easier to conceal than full-size firearms, especially when carried inside the waistband or on the ankle. However, if your setup includes a red dot sight or a rail-mounted light, your holster must be explicitly molded to fit that configuration.
Certain holster styles, like chest and shoulder rigs, handle full-sized handguns better than waistband options. Always ensure your holster is designed for your firearm’s exact make, model, and accessory loadout.
Retention Level
Retention refers to how securely your gun stays in the holster—especially during movement, pressure, or potential physical conflict.
- Holsters Level 1: Passive retention (friction fit or tension screws)
- Holsters Level 2: Adds an active element like a thumb break or rotating hood
- Holsters Level 3: Combines multiple mechanisms, often used by law enforcement
For concealed carry, level 1 or 2 is typically sufficient. For tactical or duty use, a level 2 or level 3 system provides added security and peace of mind.
Draw Angle & Accessibility
The cant (angle) and ride height of your holster affect how quickly and naturally you can draw your firearm. A forward cant (15°) is common for strong-side carry, while neutral or slight reverse cant is often used in appendix carry.
Accessibility is also tied to your dominant hand, mobility, and clothing. Shoulder holsters are excellent when seated, but slower in a standing emergency. Ankle holsters are discreet but almost impossible to access quickly when standing. Always train your draw from the exact position you intend to carry.
How to Wear Each Type of Holster
IWB (Inside the Waistband) Holster
- Worn inside pants, clipped to belt
- Best at appendix or 3–5 o’clock
Read full guide → How to wear IWB Holster
Shoulder Holster
- Harness worn over shoulders
- Under jacket; horizontal or vertical draw
Ankle Holster
- Strapped to inner ankle
- Works best with slim pistols
Belly Band Holster
- Elastic band worn around waist or chest
- No belt required
Chest Holster
- Harnessed at the sternum
- Great for hiking, outdoors, or packs
Drop Leg Holster
- Strapped to upper thigh
- Allows fast access, ideal for tactical gear
Thigh Holster
- Typically designed for female carriers
- Worn under skirts or dresses
Pros and Cons of Each Holster Type
| Holster Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| IWB | Best concealment, minimal printing | Less comfortable seated |
| Shoulder | Comfortable, good for long guns | Requires jacket |
| Ankle | Deep concealment | Slowest draw |
| Belly Band | Versatile, no belt needed | Less retention |
| Chest | Accessible with packs | Visible unless layered |
| Drop Leg | Fast access, great for gear | Least concealable |
| Thigh | Discreet for women | Limited to specific clothing |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best holster can perform poorly if it’s worn incorrectly. Whether you’re new to concealed carry or refining your setup, avoiding these common mistakes will improve comfort, concealment, and response time.
Wearing the Holster Too High or Too Low
If your holster rides too high, your grip may be exposed or unstable. Too low, and it can be hard to draw or cause printing. Adjust the ride height until your grip sits naturally at hand level and remains easy to conceal.
Using a Poor-Quality or Unsupported Belt
A weak or sagging belt can cause your holster to shift, tilt, or print. Always pair your holster with a rigid, purpose-built carry belt designed to support the weight of your firearm and gear.
Choosing the Wrong Holster for Your Gun Size
Trying to fit a full-size pistol into a minimalist holster, or vice versa, compromises both retention and comfort. Make sure your holster is made for your gun’s exact make, model, and accessory setup (light, optic, etc.).
Ignoring Retention Safety
Some users overlook the importance of proper retention. A holster with no retention or an improperly adjusted one can lead to accidental drops or unauthorized access. Choose the right retention level for your environment and test its function regularly.
Not Practicing from Your Actual Carry Position
Range training from a table or flat draw position doesn’t match real-world conditions. If you carry at 3 o’clock, practice your draw from there. If you use a belly band, practice with the same gear and clothing you wear daily. Repetition builds confidence and response speed.
The Best Way to Wear a Holster Is What Works for You
The best holster setup is the one that fits your body, your firearm, and your daily needs. Explore each type, test your positioning, and adjust based on comfort, access, and concealment.