Best IWB Holsters: 2022 Buyer’s Guide

Best IWB Holster:
CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster

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What Recent Buyers Report

Most new buyers said that this holster was solid in construction and provided excellent durability. As far as quick drawing goes, that was a positive because the holster was snag-free. The security lock feature held up pretty well, preventing any slippage or even anyone trying to gain access to their pistol. One user said that overall, the holster was pretty comfortable and easy to use for drawing and re-holstering.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Made from a high-quality synthetic material known as Bolatron, this holster is super durable and thus super comfortable to wear. It’s pretty hardcore and does a good job securing your pistol in place. It won’t allow for any wiggle room nor will it allow anyone to snatch it away from you so they can use it as a weapon against you. And believe us, on rare occasions that does happen. The holster also has a sweat guard that keeps the holster nice and clean and doesn’t allow any skin irritation even on the warmest of days. 

This IWB holster has been made from Boltaron, a thermoplastic similar to Kydex; some argue Boltaron even outperforms Kydex. Other parts of the holster are made from powder coated steel, making it durable and wear resistant.

The retention is hex key adjustable between 0 to 15 degrees and the holster features a posi-click audible retention lock system. This indicates when the gun is properly holstered. This specific model only fits Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9MM/.40 S&W without attachments, and is a right-hand draw only.

Who Will Use This Most?

This IWB holster might be the best for those who are looking for a tactical style IWB holster for concealed carry use. This surely stands out as one tough little unit that will give way to maximum concealability and excellent comfort. You’ll love this holster the moment you strap it on and fit your pistol of choice inside. Simply put, it’s a concealed carry user’s best friend that stands by your side day in and day out. 

Bottom Line

This holster from CYA Supply Co. is by far one of the best holsters in terms of quality and reliability. This sets the bar high for some IWB holsters to clear. Excellent durability, top-notch security, and reliability are what you are going to get out of this holster. And yes, you might get a pretty comfortable fit-out of the whole shebang as well. 

This CYA IWB holster is a slim, highly concealable holster, and is perfect for everyday use. It has a proper slide lining for added comfort and offers user-friendly adjustment mechanics. 

Best IWB Holster Runner-up:
Belly Band Holster For Concealed Carry

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What Recent Buyers Report

New users of this holster generally agree that it was perfect for appendix carry. It was an even greater convenience when they noticed the extra pouch for the use of an additional magazine and other tools like a flashlight. The fit was nice and snug and even didn’t create any discomfort. One user said that the wrap-around fit perfectly and didn’t come off at any point in time while wearing it. Most pistols, including Glocks and SIGs, were highly compatible with this holster.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Appendix carry is considered to be one of the most popular forms that require an IWB holster. So if you want a nice holster that will make maximum concealability more than a possibility, then you’re probably going to need a holster that can pull it off. This might be the choice that stands out above the rest of the pack. It’s a holster that doesn’t require a belt because it wraps around you. And it’s made from Neoprene material that makes it so much more comfortable and less irritating on the skin. It fits most pistols both small or full-sized. No matter what, it’s pretty reliable for even the most discreet of concealed carry users. 

Belly band holsters are an amazing option for IWB carry. These bands wrap around your waist, providing a secure holster for your weapon. The breathable neoprene fabric is extremely comfortable and soft on the skin. The holster is made from surgical grade elastic and can hold handguns of various sizes.

The button-clasp thumb break retention adds even more security. Moreover, this holster is extremely versatile and can be worn in positions other than inside the waistband. As an added bonus, the extra pouch is wide enough to hold a few magazines or items such as a phone or wallet.

Who Will Use This Most?

If you are a concealed carry practitioner and plan on appendix carrying, then this might be the best holster you can find. With soft, but sturdy material that makes it comfortable and the ability to fit most pistols, it’s hard to say no to this holster in general. This will fit most sizes without little to no adjustments. So if you really want a good fitting holster without struggling to make many resizing adjustments, this is it. 

Bottom Line

The Belly Band Holster For Concealed Carry is not only designed for the best in appendix carry, but it is designed to ensure that your concealed carry experience is more comfortable than any other holster you’ve owned. Once you fit this on yourself along with the pistol, you might find it hard to give up when the time comes to find a new holster. 

This belly band holster can be used for a number of different carrying options and is great for those who are constantly on-the-go. The holster is designed to stay in place even when you run or exercise. Overall, the holster is ideal for nearly every situation.

Best IWB Holster Second Runner-up:
Q-Series IWB Minimalist Concealed Carry Stealth Holster

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What Recent Buyers Report

New users were quite intrigued by the design. At the same time, they were impressed with the holster’s ability to hold their pistols of choice in place without any wiggle room or slipping out of place. They said that the hold was quite solid, as was the overall durability. One user even said that it slightly increased his drawing time while trying it out during a “run and gun” session at the range. Another user was quite ecstatic for the ambidextrous design since he is a left-handed shooter who long suffered from the use of right-handed holsters. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The design of this holster is the definition of minimalist. It will hold your pistol in place, but since it’s an IWB design it will still deliver maximum concealability on demand. Most important, it doesn’t create any bulges like some holsters with extra material that have been notoriously known to do. It also allows for quick drawing and reholstering without the snags. Could this design be the future of holsters? Only time will tell. But if you want a holster that will be minimal in design yet maximal in concealability and reliability, you’re going to find this holster to be really hard to choose against. 

This holster features a minimalist design and is a great option for those who are in search of something compact and functional. The holster is no bigger than a small cell phone and it's extremely easy to conceal. Made from Kydex, this holster sits close to the body and covers the trigger guard and half the slide of the gun.

The retention is also adjustable and the metal clip is designed to snap firmly to any waistband or belt (up to 2-inches wide). This holster is available in multiple variants designed for different kinds of weapons.

Who Will Use This Most?

This holster might be the go-to option for many users that want more concealability instead of less. Meanwhile, they are getting sick and tired of the bulging that occurs with even some normal holsters. If you want something that will save you time and frustration, you’d be hard-pressed to find a holster quite like this anywhere else. 

Bottom Line

The Q-Series Stealth Gun Holster is revolutionizing the way we conceal carry with one interesting design. You’ll simply want to try this sucker out on that feature alone. This holster eliminates a handful of problems that most concealed carry users face with their current holster. The question is: will most manufacturers follow suit in the years or decades that follow? 

This minimalist holster features an exceptional, unique design and offers high levels of concealment. However, placing your gun back into place can be difficult. The bottom line here is that this is good option for occasional use, but maybe not everyday carry.

Best Kydex IWB Holster:
Concealment Express IWB KYDEX Holster

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What Recent Buyers Report

Many recent users had no complaints about this holster, and for good reason. The concealability for most pistols was made possible by creating no bulges at all. The Kydex material made the holster quite durable and in turn, a really comfortable fit for most users. One user even said that he had to get rid of his old holster because it irritated his skin a lot. But with the Kydex material in this holster, that put a stop to it even when he was sweating bullets in the summertime (when the irritation would be worse). 

Why it Stands Out to Us

Kydex is perhaps one of the best materials on the market when it comes to holsters. Why? Because they have been proven time and time again that they are durable and can stand the test of time. Not to mention, they don’t allow any kind of snagging, unlike some soft material holsters. It holds up a holster pretty good and can last you a long time without it getting scuffed up or beaten around due to consistent drawing and re-holstering. The clip is pretty sturdy and does a good job holding up on belts and waistbands as well. 

This IWB holster is made from Kydex and can be used for appendix, hip, cross draw, small of back (SOB) holsters, and palm-out carry. Buyers love that the retention pressure can easily be adjusted using screws near the base of the holster. The cant angle is also adjustable, which makes it even more versatile.

Additionally, the full-length sweat guards makes it very comfortable and users are guided while re-holstering via the audible lock system. Keep in mind, this particular model is designed exclusively for Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9MM/.40 but there are other sizes available.

Who Will Use This Most?

This would be an excellent holster for many users that are in search of something durable, comfortable, and just flat-out awesome. And that’s exactly what most Kydex holsters are, including this one. If you have a pistol like a Glock 19 or SIG P226 then this might be the holster that you can consider since it will fit such pistols with ease. 

Bottom Line

The Concealment Express is the real deal on numerous counts. You can use this holster for the sake of maximizing your concealed carry ability while being able to wear it for a long period of time. This might just be the best holster you have ever owned to date. And best of all, it’s affordable for most budgets. A high-quality IWB holster without breaking the bank? Where do we sign up?

Kydex holsters are very durable and easy to re-holster -- this holster is no exception. However, keep in mind this model is not very flexible.

Best Galco IWB Holster:
Galco Kingtuk Inside the Waistband Holster

What Recent Buyers Report

Most new buyers were owners of various Glock models. They were able to fit those pistols on this holster without any additional fitting or issues. The durability according to one user was ridiculously strong and gave way to making it really easy to keep the pistol secure in place without any slippage. The new users were also satisfied with the holster being really comfortable to wear. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This holster is made from a mix of Kydex and Napa Leather. It’s perfect for those who want the ultimate comfort since it’s an IWB holster that will ensure that you have a comfortable fit without the material bothering the skin. It’s a holster that is tough as nails and won’t wear or tear easily. Whether you have a Glock 19 or Glock 43, you have a holster that’s built for reliability and longevity, and it is not something that you want to underestimate in the slightest. If you want a holster that’s as reliable as Glock pistols themselves, you’ll want to check out this holster for yourself. 

The Galco IWB holster features a napa leather base and Kydex body to securely hold your daily carry. This holster is exclusively designed to fit the Glock series, all the way from Glock 17 to Glock 33. 
The base features two clips to attach to user's belts. The holster also adapts for several other Glock models with a sight attached.

Who Will Use This Most?

This holster is made exclusively for many Glock pistols. And it will be a good one for many users that want a holster that will last longer than any other Glock-compatible holster on the market. Furthermore, it’s a holster that users can depend on without having to deal with any kind of skin irritation. Glock users with sensitive skin rejoice! 

Bottom Line

The Galco is a thing of beauty. And it’s tough enough to carry a Glock pistol for a long time. Once you give this holster a try along with your favorite Glock pistol, you probably won’t trade it in for any other holster for as long as you live. It might be the last holster you ever buy for your entire life. We know you’ll love it, and so will your Glock.

If you own a Glock or several weapons of the Glock series, this holster is perfect for you. The holster is comfortable and offers adjustable retention and cant. You’ll even forget about it once it breaks in. Leather construction lasts for a long time. Still, the price might be a concern for some.

Best IWB Magazine Holster:
Concealed Carrier Universal IWB Holster For Concealed Carry

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What Recent Buyers Report

This holster is simply perfect for left-handed users. Many recent buyers of this product said that it was a great design for them and ended their long-suffering hardships of having to deal with right-handed holsters. One user said that he was incredibly happy with his ability to use it frequently thanks to its overall durability; he also added that it was a great fit for his holster and bettered his quick drawing ability since he now had a holster much closer to his shooting hand. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

If you are looking for a holster that might be the closest that you can get to universal (in terms of what pistols can be accepted) then this might be the best possible choice for you. It can fit .22 caliber pistols, .45s, .38s, you name it. It’s a holster that will be comfortable for most users and super tough to wear and tear. Just clip this bad boy onto a waistband or belt and you will be relying on a holster that will handle all your concealed carry needs on any given day. 

This pistol and magazine holster from Concealed Carrier features a universal fit for almost every small, medium, and large pistol. The package is a combination of a pistol holster and magazine holster, which can be used for carrying lethal or non-lethal items. The holsters have been constructed entirely from neoprene, making them very comfortable and soft to the touch.

Both the holster and the pouch have a metal clip that can be attached any belt. The holster ensures little to no printing and fits most guns. The retention is secured using a thumb strap on both items.

Who Will Use This Most?

This will be a great starter holster for those intending to conceal carry for the first time. So if you are looking for a holster prior to CCW training or need a holster that will fit just about any concealed carry pistol under the sun, this might be the go-to option. It might also be the best choice if you are getting tired of looking up and down for that perfect holster. You’ll use it for a while or until you find a holster that might be better. Either way, it will never steer you wrong and will keep to your side if and when you need your pistol. 

Bottom Line

If you’re a left-handed shooter and looking for a holster that might end up being the best one you’ve owned in your life, the Concealed Carrier Universal IWB Holster For Concealed Carry should be an obvious choice. Yes, it’s tough and it’s quite useful. But you’ll always have a holster that can fit just about any pistol you can think of. Carry a .22 one day and carry a .45 the next; it will still give you the same reliable use. 

This universal IWB holster is exceptional and offers great comfort and protection. The neoprene design eliminates any chance of printing and the holster is quite slim in design. As an added bonus, the separate holster and mag pouch ensure that the whole unit doesn't appear too bulky.   

Best Leather IWB Holster:
Relentless Tactical The Defender Leather IWB Holster

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What Recent Buyers Report

A lot of recent buyers had nothing but great things to say about this holster. In particular, it was the extreme comfort factor of the holster that really excelled thanks to its leather material. Some users even claimed to have chosen these holsters for the sake of a much more comfortable fit and less skin irritation. Overall, they said the pistol was able to fit most pistols and keep them securely in place while moving around or sitting down. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This leather holster puts an end to all the holsters that cause skin irritation, and they deliver a devastating blow to any holster that is cheap and flimsy in quality. Simply put, it’s a great holster that will be a surefire upgrade compared to your soon-to-be old holster. It can be a first holster for those starting out with concealed carry. Let’s face it: there isn’t a holster that will easily beat this one into submission. There may be others that will give this a run for its money. But they will probably come up short in the end. 

Leather holsters are often a high-end, classy product for firearm owners. They are durable and easy to break in. The same can be said for this holster. It is handmade in the USA and fits most full-sized and compact guns. Clips ensure the holster can be easily attached to any belt and there's no retention or locking mechanism.

Designed as an open holster, this model works on the general principle of the leather’s ability to retain the weapon. Its good quality and precision may cover up any major flaws.

Who Will Use This Most?

This will be a great holster for those in search of a starter holster or looking to make an upgrade from a holster that sucks into one that will stand out as one of the most durable and most comfortable that they’ve ever owned. If those are the “make or break” things you are looking for in a holster, you better believe that The Defender IWB Holster will deliver on the promise. 

Bottom Line

Tough in quality and super comfortable, The Defender IWB holster is the real deal. Fit this on with most pistols and you’ll have a holster that can last you years, decades, and well beyond that. It’s a godsend to many concealed carry users who have long suffered from discomfort and shoddy holsters that end up being pieces of junk.

This leather holster from Relentless is for people who are looking for a reliable, long lasting holster. It is reinforced well and easily conforms to the shape of your body. It fits most weapons and is perfect for people who are sensitive to other material.

Best Alien Gear IWB Holster:
 Alien Gear Holsters Cloak Tuck 3.0 IWB Holster

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What Recent Buyers Report

Most new users of this product were 9mm pistol owners that found it to be superior in durability and really comfortable to wear. They also added that this was able to fit 9mm pistols without any additional fitting or alterations. While it worked for most concealed carry users, it was perfect for those who needed a carry holster for competitive purposes. This holster allowed for quick drawing time and thus made it easier for most competitors. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This holster was designed exclusively for 9mm pistols. They are one of the most reliable concealed carry calibers out there. But not to be outdone, they are also perfect for those who are competitive shooters as well. Made from high-quality polymer, this sucker is super tough and won’t cause any snagging that would otherwise hinder your drawing ability. Besides, the last thing you need is dealing with snags when life or competition is on the line. 

Alien Gear is a company renowned for manufacturing holsters. This model of theirs features a Kydex frame mounted to a cloak tuck neoprene base and is our top pick for the best Alien Gear IWB holster. The cant and ride height is easily adjustable and can worn in a variety of different concealed carry positions. What separates it from other holsters is the base, which provides added comfort while in position.

Who Will Use This Most?

If you conceal carry for self-defense or use it to carry your pistol while at the range (and not using the pistol itself), this holster will provide superior carrying and long-lasting durability. It won’t scuff or deal with any wearing in the short-term. So if longevity is more of your thing in a holster, you may end up using this for many years.

Bottom Line

The Alien Gear Holster Clock Tuck 3.0 IWB Holster will definitely make concealed carry for self-defense or competition easier than any other holster. Its materials are solid and won’t easily damage compared to some bad nylon or soft material. And it makes max concealability without the bulges more than just a possibility. 

This holster from Alien Gear is an extremely comfortable option for everyday carry. The neoprene base is one of the top selling points and the holster is built to last. During regular use, you may even forget it’s there.