Just because you live an active lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to forgo bringing along your carry gun. While the holster option you typically rely on daily may not be suitable for the activity you plan to take part in, the good news is that there are plenty of other options on the market.
Before going out and buying a random holster just because it is on sale or has decent reviews, there are a number of things you should consider and prioritize.
- Retention
Your gun must stay secure in its holster during all forms of movement, including (but not limited to) bending, jumping and running. - Comfort
Look for holsters made from a soft, breathable material that won’t cause a sore spot from rubbing against bare skin. - Concealment
Choose options that prevent printing, keeping in mind that athletic wear often more easily shows the outline of a concealed firearm than what you typically wear. - Versatility
Bonus points if you find an option that is adjustable for the different carry positions that may be required by the variety of your favorite activities.
Some options that may work well for your activity are below.
Belly Band Holsters
These types of holsters are a great fit for hiking, running or even using in the gym while working out. Since this type of holster wraps around your torso, you aren’t required to wear a belt.
This is often a preferred choice to pair with leggings, shorts or a variety of other active wear options. Look for options made from breathable, moisture-wicking material to prevent chaffing or sweat buildup.
Retention should be as secure as it is with holsters worn in any other position. Lastly, ensure that the belly band itself stays put and does not ride up or shift positions as you go about your day.
Pocket Holsters
Pocket holsters are often geared toward deep concealment in clothing pockets and may not be compatible with a traditional belt system.
The exterior of these holsters is made from a grippy material designed to stay in the pocket when you draw your firearm. Many of them are also designed with a hooked feature that “hooks” onto the interior of your pants pocket as another way to ensure the holster stays tucked away as the gun is drawn.
Like the belly band and as the name suggests, there’s no belt required. This holster option is best for minimal impact activities, such as walking the dog while wearing gym shorts or sweatpants.
CCW Fanny Pack
Not all fanny packs are created equal, and just because you can fit your carry gun inside of one doesn’t make it a legitimate CCW option. Fanny packs for concealed carry are specifically designed with features that keep your gun secure within its holster and retained in a specific position within the pack that does not shift around or move whatsoever.
This is a fantastic option when more traditional carry methods would be downright uncomfortable, such as when you’re riding a bike. Depending on your pack, this may also be a viable option when hiking, as your bag’s design may impede carrying on your hip.
Chest Pack
Similar to the fanny pack option described above, chest packs are another popular choice among backpackers, long-distance hikers and even hunters. Keeping your firearm centrally located on your body at all times, this style of pack provides extremely quick access to your sidearm, with the added benefit of additional storage for keys, an ID, your wallet and other
EDC accessories.
When it’s all said and done, the best holster is the one that best fits your body, your firearm and the activities you engage in.
Beyond choosing the right holster, it’s also important to regularly evaluate how your setup performs during real movement. A quick test walk around the house isn’t always enough. Put each holster to the test by going on short jogs, bending or stretching to ensure nothing shifts or becomes uncomfortable.
Practicing your draw from each holster type is equally valuable, as different carry positions can feel unfamiliar at first.
Remember that your needs may change with the seasons or with the activity you’re doing, so having more than one holster option is ok. With a little experimentation and a focus on safety, you can stay active and prepared without compromising comfort or confidence.
Whether embarking on a hike, going to the gym for a workout or any other way you choose to stay active, there is a carry method designed to support your every need and adventure. It won’t take long before you discover that an active lifestyle and responsible carry can go hand in hand.
