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Types of Holsters: A Comprehensive Overview

Holsters are essential accessories for the safe and efficient carry of firearms. Beyond simple storage, they enable quick access and protect the weapon from damage. Over time, holster types have evolved from simple leather straps to modern hybrid solutions. This guide outlines the main holster categories, their pros and cons, typical use cases, and key terminology—clearly structured, brand‑neutral, and practice‑oriented.

1. Introduction

A holster is essentially a holder or pouch for a firearm worn on the body or attached to gear. In addition to protection and retention, a well‑chosen holster supports consistent handling, safe re‑holstering, and quick presentation. Selection depends on:

  • Firearm type: pistol, revolver

  • Carry position: belt, shoulder, appendix/abdomen, thigh, ankle, bag

  • Use case: everyday carry, duty, sport, military, collection

  • Comfort: personal fit and preferences

  • Materials: leather, nylon, Kydex, or hybrids—each with specific advantages and trade‑offs.

2. Classified by Carry Position

2.1 OWB — Outside‑the‑Waistband Belt Holster

Description: Mounted outside on the belt, typically at hip height. Rides close to the body for stable carry.
Materials: leather, nylon, Kydex.
Pros: very fast access, high stability.
Cons: less discreet; may print or protrude when seated.
Variants: paddle holsters (quick on/off), fixed belt loops for maximum stability.
👉 Example: B37 leather holster for Glock 17 (black, VlaMiTex)

2.2 IWB — Inside‑the‑Waistband Holster

Description: Worn between body and trouser waistband; fixed with clips or loops, nearly invisible from the outside.
Pros: excellent concealment.
Cons: reduced seated comfort; potential heat buildup.
Variants: AIWB (appendix) up front for very fast access; SOB (small of back) centered on the spine—highly concealed but riskier to draw.
👉 Example: IWB 4 leather holster for Glock 17 (black, VlaMiTex)

2.3 Shoulder Holster

Description: Harness worn over the shoulders; the pistol sits under the armpit with weight distributed across the torso. Often paired with magazine pouches on the opposite side.
Pros: offloads the belt; comfortable under jackets.
Cons: requires training for safe draw; can be warm in hot climates.
👉 Example: S1 shoulder holster for Glock 17/22/31 (VlaMiTex)

2.4 Ankle Holster

Description: Secured at the ankle with hook‑and‑loop or straps; usually well‑padded to prevent pressure points.
Pros: very discreet; ideal for small backup guns.
Cons: slow access; complicated by long pants or high boots.
👉 Example: B00 leather under‑calf/ankle holster for Glock 26/27/28/29/30/33/36/39 (VlaMiTex)

2.5 Thigh / Drop‑Leg Holster

Description: Attached to the belt so the holster rides ~10 cm below the belt line; additionally stabilized by one or two thigh straps to prevent shifting. Built for stability while moving.
Pros: fast standing access; reduces hip load; space for accessories.
Cons: may chafe during running or long wear; not suitable for deep concealment.
Note: "Disguised" variants look like a pouch for added discretion.
👉 Example: B30 leather holster for CZ Shadow 2 with red‑dot (black, VlaMiTex)

2.6 Waist Pack / Fanny Pack Holster

Description: A classic waist bag with an integrated holster compartment; worn up front or on the side like a casual pack.
Use: discreet everyday carry with storage for personal items.
Pros: very inconspicuous; versatile.
Cons: slower access; the pack can shift during running.
👉 Example: AK12 waist pack for Glock 17 (black, VlaMiTex)

2.7 Belly Band Holster

Description: A wide elastic band wrapped snugly around the torso; the holster pocket can be positioned front, side, or back.
Pros: extremely adaptable to body and clothing; concealed carry even without a belt.
Cons: less comfortable over long periods; heat/sweat; slower access.
Terminology: “belly band” or “abdominal band.”
👉 Example: AK10 belly band (VlaMiTex)

2.8 Cross‑Body / Messenger‑Style Bag Holster

Description: Integrated holster compartment in a shoulder bag worn diagonally across the body.
Pros: looks like a normal bag; very discreet; extra storage.
Cons: generally slower access; the bag must be shifted or taken off.
👉 Example: AK13 cross‑body shoulder bag for Glock 17 (black, VlaMiTex)

3. Classified by Design & Retention

  • Open‑top: fastest access, lower passive security.

  • Retention systems: straps, snap buttons, or level‑based mechanisms—more security but training required.

  • Hybrids: Kydex shell combined with leather/nylon for stability and comfort.

4. Materials & Innovations

  • Leather: classic, comfortable, durable; molds to the gun over time; higher maintenance.

  • Kydex: rigid, shape‑stable, water‑resistant.

  • Nylon: flexible, lightweight, cost‑effective but generally less durable.

  • Hybrids: combine strengths of multiple materials.

  • Innovation: MOLLE platforms, modular carriers, quick‑release mechanisms, and in some cases electronic retention.

More on materials and care: overview of holster materials (leather, Kydex, nylon) with care recommendations.

5. Historical Context

  • Old West: open revolver holsters for dueling.

  • 20th century: police/military emphasize retention and standardized gear.

  • Today: differentiation by mission (concealed carry, duty, sport).

6. Comparison by Criteria

Type Draw Speed Concealment Comfort Price Range
OWB very fast low high €50–€150
IWB medium high lower €40–€120
Shoulder medium high high €80–€220
Ankle slow very high medium €30–€80
Thigh/Drop‑Leg fast low medium €70–€160
Waist Pack medium very high medium €40–€130
Belly Band medium very high low–med €30–€100
Cross‑Body Bag slow very high medium €50–€180

7. Additional Selection Factors

  • Body type & clothing: influence comfort and concealability.

  • Activity: sitting, driving, or sport change the optimal position.

  • Mounting: quality belts and straps prevent shifting.

  • Safety: a shape‑stable mouth is essential for IWB/belly band designs.

  • Training: practice with an unloaded firearm is essential.

  • Legal: always follow national laws on open vs. concealed carry.

8. Conclusion

Choosing the right holster means balancing draw speed, concealment, and comfort. Alongside classic options (OWB, IWB, shoulder, thigh), modern solutions such as waist packs, belly bands, and cross‑body bags add flexibility. "Disguised" thigh pouches can combine tactical advantages with a low‑profile appearance.
Important: the trigger guard must always be covered, retention must be reliable, and regular training is non‑negotiable.
Note: terminology varies by region (e.g., waist pack vs. fanny pack; belly band vs. abdominal band). For shop listings, standardize the wording.