Concealed Carry In The Heat: Stay Cool, Stay Hidden

Summer clothes are light and fitted—which makes printing easier and sweat a real factor. The fix isn’t complicated: pick cooler materials, a slimmer holster profile, and tune your setup so the grip is there when you need it.

What changes in hot weather

Light fabrics, softer waistbands, and more movement mean less support and more moisture. Your holster must hug the body, fully cover the trigger, and keep retention firm without adding bulk.

Best holster choices for summer

Minimalist IWB (AIWB or strong-side)

Low-profile, sweat-friendly, and fast. Choose a slim, molded design with a smooth backing or sweat guard. Set a slight forward cant and mid ride so you can establish a full firing grip before the gun moves. See our Leather Holsters.

Belly band holsters

Great with gym shorts or lightweight chinos when a belt won’t cooperate. Look for breathable fabric, a rigid trigger-guard insert, and an anchor point that doesn’t shift as you walk. Re-snug after you warm up.

Crossdraw for airflow

Worn opposite the dominant hand at about 10 or 2 o’clock, crossdraw can breathe better than deep IWB under a tee. Use a molded rig with real retention and test seated draws. Explore Crossdraw.

Leather done right

Molded leather spreads pressure, stays quiet, and breaks in to your shape. Wipe sweat after wear and condition lightly so the mouth keeps its structure.

Clothing and setup that beat the heat

Pick the right layers

Moisture-wicking tees, patterned/lightweight overshirts, and athletic belts reduce printing and bounce. A slightly looser top does more than any “tactical” trick.

Tune cant, ride height, and retention

Raise until you can get a full grip; lower until printing fades. Set retention to “click in, smooth out.” Re-check after the first week of wear and in hotter temps.

Protect the gun and the holster

Salt and sweat are hard on finishes and leather. Wipe down after carry and follow a light care routine—see our guides below.

Related picks and guides

Explore more: Leather Holsters | Crossdraw | Leather Belts | How to Choose the Right Holster | Leather vs Kydex FAQs | Care for Leather Holsters | Break-In Guide

What to do next

Choose a molded summer-friendly rig, pair it with a rigid belt or belly band, and micro-adjust cant and ride until you can get a full, instant grip without printing. Ready to upgrade? Start with our Leather Holsters or try a breathable Crossdraw setup.

FAQ

Where should I carry in hot weather?

AIWB or high IWB near the midline minimizes bounce and improves access. Crossdraw is a good alternative when you want more airflow.

Do I need a different belt for summer?

Often yes. A stiff, low-stretch belt or secure belly band keeps angle and height consistent with lighter fabrics.

How do I stop sweat from damaging leather?

Wipe down after wear and condition lightly. Avoid heat or soaking—structure matters for safe re-holstering.