Dressing for concealed carry is just as important as choosing the right firearm and holster. Your clothing plays a pivotal role in maintaining the “concealed” aspect of concealed carry. The right concealed carry clothing — including shirts, pants, shorts and jackets — helps keep your firearm hidden while allowing for quick access. Striking a balance between comfort, style and functionality of your concealed carry clothing is crucial to ensure your firearm remains hidden from public view while still being easily accessible in case of an emergency. The goal is to seamlessly integrate your firearm into your daily life, ensuring you can confidently and discreetly carry a firearm without compromising your style or comfort.
Basics of Concealed Carry Clothing
Functionality should be at the top of your list when it comes to choosing your wardrobe. Whether winter or summer, your typical “carry outfit” should allow for smooth and immediate access to your firearm. If you can’t get to your gun quickly and easily, you may as well be unarmed. It is imperative that you practice drawing your gun, dressed exactly as you will be when you go out into public.
At the same time, your holster selection and concealed carry clothing choices should enable easy retention. To ensure nothing will move around while you’re carrying your firearm in day-to-day activities, practice your typical movements at home with your unloaded carry gun in your usual concealed carry position.
It’s also important to keep visibility in mind. Concealed means “to hide or keep secret.” If your concealed carry gun is printing — a visible outline or impression through your clothing — or if your actions — such as touching or adjusting your everyday carry tools — draw the attention of an observer, you have failed in your endeavor. Your goal is to carry on in your everyday life just as you did before carrying concealed. The convenience of carrying concealed has to be given strong consideration as well. Your concealed carry tools have to be as convenient as putting your wallet or phone in your pocket.
Concealed Carry Clothing: How to Choose the Right Apparel for CCW
Unless your everyday dress is tactical boots, trousers with side pockets and a tactical flare topped off by a photographer’s vest, don’t wear this attire. It advertises what you don’t want to advertise — that you probably have a gun on you.
Now, before you spend a lot of money on a new wardrobe, there are a few more things to consider. Your hand size is a good place to start. If the gun’s size precludes handling, drawing, firing accurately and re-holstering with one hand, you need to find one that fits that bill. Carrying a gun that you can’t employ with one hand is a trap that many fall into. Keep in mind that you are not on the range shooting static targets when it matters the most.
Concealed Carry Pants
After you find a gun that fits the hand and enables one-hand operation — as well as pointing naturally, you can continue to your physical size and shape as well as ranges of motion and capabilities of movement.
For example, if you can’t reach an ankle holster without having a chair available, consider either inside-the-waistband (IWB) or outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters instead. Concealed carry pants should provide enough room for an IWB or OWB holster while ensuring comfort and discretion.
Key Features of Concealed Carry Pants:
- Extra waistband room is essential for IWB holsters.
- Reinforced belt loops will support a sturdy CCW belt.
- Deep pockets and extra compartments provide storage for spare magazines, knives or other everyday carry gear
Some changes in attire will be necessary as you live the concealed carry lifestyle, however. If you wear jeans most of the time and have decided on IWB carry, buy the same jeans with an extra size or two in the waist. For ankle carry, make sure to purchase the fuller leg cut for your trousers. There are also companies out there offering options, such as concealed carry pants or jeans, specifically for the everyday carrier.
Best Types of CCW Pants:
- Tactical jeans: Look casual but are reinforced for durability
- Cargo pants: Provide extra pockets and flexibility for EDC
- Athletic pants: Some options allow for concealed carry with integrated holsters
- Dress pants: Some brands now offer business-casual CCW-friendly trousers
Some brands you can start with are 5.11, Vertx or Propper
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Concealed Carry Shorts
Concealed carry in summer requires careful selection of concealed carry shorts that provide both comfort and functionality.
Key Features of Concealed Carry Shorts:
- Reinforced belt loops are also essential on shorts to secure a sturdy gun belt.
- A stretch fabric and loose fit will help reduce printing and allow for movement.
- Deep and/or hidden pockets allow for storing extra magazines and other EDC items.
- A moisture-wicking material will keep you cool in hot weather.
Best Types of Concealed Carry Shorts:
- Cargo shorts: Provide extra storage and concealment
- Athletic shorts with built-in holsters: Suitable for jogging or casual wear
- Tactical shorts: Designed with reinforced pockets and CCW-friendly compartments
- Hybrid casual shorts: Offer a blend of style and function
Check out 5.11 or UnderTech for CCW shorts.
Concealed Carry Shirts
A concealed carry shirt may be referred to as a cover garment, but this term can also apply to jackets or vests. A loose-fitting shirt with plenty of room to breathe can really help you conceal a firearm carried at your waist. Such shirts reduce printing and provide for rapid access to the firearm. Thicker fabrics or shirts with patterns can distract the eye and obscure the shape of a concealed gun. A good concealed carry shirt is essential for effective firearm concealment while allowing for easy access.
Key Features of Concealed Carry Shirts:
- Loose fit and breathability to help reduce printing and increase comfort.
- Thicker fabrics and patterns to distract the eye and obscure the firearm’s shape.
- Quick-access designs like button-ups, snap closures or hidden panels allow for faster draws from concealment.
- A CCW shirt with an integrated holster pocket is a plus.
Like pants, there are businesses that provide shirts specifically for the concealed carry lifestyle. Some of these are T-shirts with built-in holsters or concealed carry button-ups with discreet access.
Best Types of Concealed Carry Shirts
- Button-up shirts: Designed for easy access, especially with pearl snaps
- Polo shirts: Comfortable and casual while providing concealment
- Tactical T-shirts: Some have built-in holsters or reinforced side panels
- Compression undershirts: Offer a secure way to carry while wearing other layers
Some brands to look at include 5.11, Vertx or Tru-Spec
Dressing for the Weather
However, when it comes to dressing for weather conditions, the game changes a bit. The key here is balance. You need to ensure that your clothing allows for effective concealment without compromising your comfort or safety in any given weather condition.
In warmer weather, lighter, breathable fabrics are crucial while still considering clothing styles that allow for easy access to your firearm while still offering optimal concealment. Untucked shirts or lightweight jackets can be ideal for warm-weather carry.
On the other hand, dressing for colder weather provides more flexibility in terms of layering and garment selection, but it also presents its own set of challenges. Bulky clothing can make accessing your firearm difficult, so strategic layering is key.
Women’s Concealed Carry Apparel
Women face unique challenges when it comes to choosing concealed carry clothing. The differences in body shape, clothing styles and societal expectations can make effectively and discreetly carrying a firearm more complex.
The fashion industry has come a long way in recognizing the need for women’s concealed carry clothing, allowing women to carry their firearms securely without sacrificing their personal style or comfort.
Key Features to Look for in Women’s CCW Apparel:
- Holster integration, such as built-in pockets, makes firearm access easy.
- Stretch and flexibility in fabrics will allow for comfortable movement without revealing a concealed carry gun.
- Stylish yet functional designs ensure CCW clothing fits seamlessly into daily wear.
Best Types of Concealed Carry Clothing for Women:
- Concealed carry leggings: Built-in holster pockets provide secure carry
- Concealed carry jackets & vests: Ideal for layering and added discretion
- Women’s CCW jeans & pants: Designed with reinforced waistbands and extra stretch
- Concealed carry handbags: A practical off-body carry option
Today, there are numerous brands that offer a wide range of options, from concealed carry leggings and shorts to specially designed tops and jackets. These garments are crafted with hidden pockets and compartments that allow for effective concealment and easy access to a firearm. Look to Alexo Athletica, Tactica Defense Fashion or Dene Adams for CCW clothing made for women.
Tactical Footwear
Just like your choice of firearm or clothing, your shoes play a crucial role in the overall concealed carry experience. The right footwear can significantly impact your ability to effectively carry and use a concealed firearm. Good tactical footwear provides the necessary stability and balance, which are integral when aiming or moving quickly.
Key Features of Tactical Footwear:
- Slip-resistant outsoles provide traction on various surfaces.
- A reinforced toe and heel will improve durability and foot protection.
- Cushioned insoles and arch support ensure all-day comfort.
- Lightweight and breathable materials keep feet cool.
Moreover, comfort is key. Uncomfortable shoes can distract you or even hinder your movement at crucial moments. And, just like your clothing, your shoes need to maintain a low profile. After all, the essence of concealed carry lies in its discretion.
Dressing for Concealed Carry Every Day
Choosing the right concealed carry clothing is just the beginning. There are various factors to consider, such as the type of firearm you’re carrying, your body shape, your lifestyle and your comfort level with different carry positions.
Dressing for concealed carry is about much more than just concealing a firearm. It’s about blending functionality with personal style and comfort. From choosing the right clothing for different weather conditions to selecting suitable footwear, each element plays a crucial role in creating an effective concealed carry system.
This article is a compilation of previous blog posts authored by George Harris, John Caile, Scott W. Wagner, Beth Alcazar and Eugene Nielsen.
