Down to Basics – Choosing an Ankle Holster

When looking for a concealed carry holster, it really comes down to what you like and is convenient for you. You may have to go through a couple of types to find what you like. One of the often-overlooked styles is that of an ankle holster. Here are a few things to think about when it comes to this uncommon holster.

Comfort

When you have something so specialized as an ankle holster, you’ll want to make sure the fit is perfect. You want to make sure the holster is tight enough it doesn’t slip, but not so tight as to be painful. Many versions of concealed carry ankle holsters come with additional padding to help prevent chafing. Further, consider purchasing a holster that has a calf strap. Some versions of ankle holsters come with these straps, while others offer it as an optional accessory.

Breathability

Nylon and neoprene are popular materials for ankle holsters because they are both flexible and capable of retaining their shape, cutting down on the risk of the holster straps stretching out. Make sure to find a material that is not only comfortable against your skin but either allows for breathability or has some sort of moisture protection.

Retention

There are a few different types of gun retention that are used on ankle holsters. One is a thumb break and just means some sort of strap that keeps your gun safely holstered while moving about. Another option is detailed molding on the holster itself. This helps retain your gun by fitting it like a glove. The only real downside to this sort of retention is that it only fits one type of gun and you can’t interchange your various weapons. Many holsters use a combination of these two types of retention.

Ultimately, finding a holster that works for you comes down to personal preference. Find a holster that can breathe, stay put and be flexible.