The 10 Best Kydex Holsters of 2021
If you own a handgun, Kydex holsters are some of the most essential accessories for the everyday carrying of your concealed weapon.
These are designed to be comfortable when slotted in the waistband and to disappear almost entirely into your clothing to make the weapon inconspicuous.
Kydex holsters are designed to boost both carrying convenience, and weapon protection, through features such as retention adjustment.
In our Kydex holster review, we explore some of the leading models, their key features and benefits, and help you choose the ideal one for your firearms.
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10 Best Kydex Holsters – Review
- 1. Best Overall Kydex Holster: Concealment Express IWB
- 2. Best Inexpensive Kydex Holster: Desantis Slim-Tuk
- 3. Best OWB Kydex Holster: Concealment Express OWB Paddle
- 4. Best Lightweight Kydex Holster: Amberide IWB Holster
- 5. Best Durable Kydex Holster: PoLe.Craft Glock 19
- 6. Most Versatile Kydex Holster: Concealment Express Tuckable IWB
- 7. Most Comfortable Kydex Holster: FoxX Holsters IWB
- 8. Kydex Holster with Safety Enhancements: Fierce Defender IWB
- 9. Kydex Holster with a Lifetime Warranty: Amberide IWB Glock 43/43X
- 10. Slim & Close-Fitting OWB Kydex Holster: R&R Holsters OWB
- How to Buy the Best Kydex Holsters
- Conclusion
10 Best Kydex Holsters – Review
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PRODUCT |
FEATURES |
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1. Concealment Express IWB (Best Overall) |
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2. Desantis Slim-Tuk (Best Inexpensive) |
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3. Concealment Express OWB Paddle (Best OWB) |
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4. Amberide IWB Holster (Best Lightweight) |
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5. PoLe.Craft Glock 19 (Best Durable) |
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6. Concealment Express Tuckable IWB (Most Versatile) |
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7. FoxX Holsters IWB (Most Comfortable) |
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8. Fierce Defender IWB (With Safety Enhancements) |
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9. Amberide IWB Glock 43/43X (With a Lifetime Warranty) |
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10. R&R Holsters OWB (Slim & Close-Fitting OWB) |
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PRODUCT |
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1. Concealment Express IWB (Best Overall) |
2. Desantis Slim-Tuk (Best Inexpensive) |
3. Concealment Express OWB Paddle (Best OWB) |
4. Amberide IWB Holster (Best Lightweight) |
5. PoLe.Craft Glock 19 (Best Durable) |
6. Concealment Express Tuckable IWB (Most Versatile) |
7. FoxX Holsters IWB (Most Comfortable) |
8. Fierce Defender IWB (With Safety Enhancements) |
9. Amberide IWB Glock 43/43X (With a Lifetime Warranty) |
10. R&R Holsters OWB (Slim & Close-Fitting OWB) |
1. Best Overall Kydex Holster: Concealment Express IWB
- Fits: Glock 17/19/19X/22/23/26/27/31/32/33/45 (G1-5)
- Hand Orientation: Left
- Adjustable Cant: -5 to +20 degrees
- Weight: 3 ounces
A multi-weapon fit, superior comfort, durable materials, and a lightweight build make Concealment Express IWB our best overall Kydex holster.
It is designed to fit multiple weapon types, including Glock 17, 19, 19X, 22, 23, 26, 27, 31, 32, 33, 45 (G1-5) handguns. This compatibility with many weapons makes it accessible to a wide group of firearm owners.
Designed as an inside the waistband (IWB) holster, this minimalist unit fits comfortably in your waistband and when used with an untucked shirt, does a great job of concealing your carry.
To ensure the Kydex does not interfere with the natural draw motion of your weapon, there’s an undercut trigger guard.
Effective sweat protection for your firearm is achieved by combining a full-length sweat guard and rear sight shield.
A potential downside of the Concealment Express IWB is that it lacks a lining in the interior, meaning your gun’s finish is at constant risk of scratching.
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2. Best Inexpensive Kydex Holster: Desantis Slim-Tuk
- Fits: Glock 43
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 3 ounces
Desantis Slim-Tuk is not only pocket-friendly, but also compact, with an ambidextrous orientation for enhanced convenience.
Our most affordable holster can be used by both right-handed and left-handed firearm owners thanks to its ambidextrous orientation.
A unique feature of this IWB holster is its proprietary tuck-able 360 C-Clip®, which offers you unlimited mounting options.
It’s also worth recognizing just how compact the holster is, measuring 1.25 x 5.5 x 3.25 inches in size. And compactness is a great enhancement to both comfort and concealment. You’ll barely notice the firearm on you, not to mention the elevated levels of comfort.
The only major downside of the Desantis Slim-Tuk is that it fits just a single weapon type, the Glock 43. Owners of other firearm models will not benefit from the holster’s low price.
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3. Best OWB Kydex Holster: Concealment Express OWB Paddle
- Fits: Glock 48
- Hand Orientation: Left
- Adjustable Cant: -5 to +20 degrees
- Weight: 3 ounces
Concealment Express OWB Paddle offers the best comfort and conceal capacity for outside the waistband (OWB) carrying, with an untucked shirt.
It adopts a minimalist design and applies .08-inch Kydex over a proprietary aluminum mold to achieve superior levels of quality, consistency, comfort, and reliability.
An undercut trigger guard has been added to keep the holster from interfering with the weapon’s draw motion. There’s also the Over-Cut Open-Face design, which enables the holster to accept threaded barrels and suppressor height sights.
Your weapon is shielded from sweat effectively, thanks to a full-length sweat guard and rear sight shield.
Also, adjustments are simplified significantly through the adoption of black oxide steel hardware with threadlock. The same strong hardware is used for retention pressure adjustment.
The paddle design of Concealment Express OWB Paddle is not very efficient. Its outer edges are sharp and may dig into your clothes, at the hip, potentially causing discomfort.
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4. Best Lightweight Kydex Holster: Amberide IWB Holster
- Fits: S&W M&P Shield 9/40 & Shield M 2.0 - 3.1 in. Barrel
- Hand Orientation: Left
- Adjustable Cant: 0 to 15 degrees
- Weight: 1.59 ounces
Amberide IWB Holster enhances carrying comfort and simplicity thanks to its lightweight construction. At 1.59 ounces, this Kydex holster is the lightest of the pack.
This unit is waterproof, allowing for carrying even in wet conditions. You can also wash it as frequently as is necessary without any risk of damage.
To help preserve the pristine condition of your firearm, the holster features a full sweat guard, which covers the entire length of the slide.
You can also adjust the cant of the holster’s 1.5-inch belt clip using a Philips screwdriver, to achieve faster draw speeds and excellent concealment of your weapon under clothing.
It’s also possible to adjust the retention pressure on this holster to boost the speed and smoothness of drawing. Adjustments are very simple and hassle-free.
A slight issue we noted on the Amberide IWB Holster is the occasional loosening of screws, which requires frequent tightening.
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5. Best Durable Kydex Holster: PoLe.Craft Glock 19
- Fits: Glock 19/19X/23/25/32/45 (Gen 1- 5)
- Hand Orientation: Left
- Adjustable Cant: 0 to 15 degrees
- Weight: 2.93 ounces
PoLe.Craft Glock 19 is a unique Kydex holster, whose design has been optimized to support intensive use while boosting the gear’s durability.
The high-quality holster is specially-tailored for Glock 19, 19X, 23, 25, 32, 45 (Gen 1- 5) firearms. It features rugged construction that takes the durability of this holster a notch higher.
With this accessory, your carrying confidence is elevated significantly, thanks to the elegant tan finish, sweatproof and waterproof enhancements, and entire body coverage to prevent clipping on clothes.
You can make simple cant adjustments on this holster using the universally-available Philips screwdriver. Such adjustments enable faster gun removal and enhanced concealing of the same under your clothes.
The Kydex on PoLe.Craft Glock 19. is noticeably thin and may flex more than expected. In case the flexing affects retention, you can adjust the same easily.
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6. Most Versatile Kydex Holster: Concealment Express Tuckable IWB
- Fits: Glock 19/19X/ 23/32/45 (Gen 1 - 5)
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Adjustable Cant: -30 to +30 degrees
- Weight: 2 ounces
The versatility of Concealment Express Tuckable IWB is brought out by the Kydex holster’s support for multiple firearms, exclusive holster features, and compatibility with my convenience-enhancing accessories.
This minimalist ambidextrous IWB holster is designed to fit the Glock 19/19X/23/32/45 (G1-5) and for comfortable wearing inside your waistband with both untucked or tucked shirts. It embraces the true spirit of concealed carry.
Some of the exclusive holster features that come with this model include a trigger guard to help preserve natural draw movement, an over-cut open-face to accommodate threaded barrels, and a full-length sweat to keep your weapon sweat-free.
You’ll be pleased to know that this holster is claw-compatible. It eliminates firearm printing by angling its butt to your body, for comfortable carrying. The holster also works with Ulticlip3, Ulticlip XL, and the low-profile soft belt loop kits by Concealment Express.
The versatility of Concealment Express Tuckable IWB’s does make this Kydex holster a pricey unit, especially if you’re on a budget.
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7. Most Comfortable Kydex Holster: FoxX Holsters IWB
- Fits: Kimber 1911 Ultra Carry II, Ultra TLE II
- Hand Orientation: Right
- Adjustable Cant: -15 to 15 degrees
FoxX Holsters IWB combines compactness, multiple ride height positions, and simplified On/Off switching to achieve superior comfort levels when carrying.
Specifically designed to fit the Kimber 1911 Ultra Carry II and Ultra TLE II firearms, this holster is very compact, making it a great tuckable IWB accessory for your concealed carry.
Your comfort is further enhanced by the holster’s 3 ride height positions. It comes with additional mounting holes that allow for height adjustment to your desired comfort levels.
The holster adopts a strong nylon clip that is durable to support everyday carrying. This clip also supports positive, negative, and straight-up cant adjustment. You can choose the angle that provides you the most comfort.
Then there’s the extended slide guard, which covers the whole side (next to the body). Not only are these enhancements convenient, but they also combine well to boost holster comfort.
Because the FoxX Holsters IWB is for right-handed users only, this means left-handed firearm owners can’t enjoy its benefits.
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8. Kydex Holster with Safety Enhancements: Fierce Defender IWB
- Fits: Glock 19/23/32/Streamlight TLR1
- Hand Orientation: Right
- Adjustable Cant: 0 to 15 degrees
- Weight: 4.16 oz.
The Fierce Defender IWB boost’s firearm safety while carrying, thanks to enhancements made to the trigger section of the Kydex holster’s design.
When you holster your gun, its trigger is fully shielded to prevent accidental contact. The holster also covers the gun’s backside fully, boosting safety by a significant margin while providing reliable protection from sweat.
It uses a strong 0.08-inch Kydex which is durable and well-molded to accommodate the intended weapons. You can also acquire the perfect fit by adjusting this holster’s retention to your comfort levels.
Another feature that boosts the usability of this holster is its flared opening, which facilitates the easy re-holstering of your firearm.
You can get this holster in many colors, including black, carbon fiber, gunmetal grey, or flat dark earth, to complement your style.
The Fierce Defender IWB is, however, pricey compared to its competition, budget buyers may opt to explore other options.
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9. Kydex Holster with a Lifetime Warranty: Amberide IWB Glock 43/43X
- Fits: Glock 43/43X
- Hand Orientation: Left
- Adjustable Cant: 0 to 15 degrees
- Weight: 3.21 ounces
You can be confident in the performance, durability, and comfort promised by Amberide IWB Glock 43/43X thanks to the generous lifetime warranty that’s included with your purchase of this Kydex holster.
The lifetime warranty offered by Amberide will give you peace of mind because in case this holster’s performance is not satisfactory, you can return it for a free replacement.
It is built lightweight and optimized for maximum comfort to boost your carrying confidence. Also, the holster features strong and rugged Kydex, which is waterproof and washable to maximize its versatility in multiple conditions.
You can even adjust the retention pressure of this holder to ensure prompt and smooth draws. It's customizable to your needs and comfort levels. Simply tighten or loosen the available retention screws.
Although Amberide IWB Glock 43/43X comes with a generous warranty, its weapon support is limited to only Glock 43/43X models, locking out other firearm types.
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10. Slim & Close-Fitting OWB Kydex Holster: R&R Holsters OWB
- Fits: 1911 - 22/380 Cal.
- Hand Orientation: left
- Adjustable Cant: 0 to 15 degrees
R&R Holsters OWB Kydex stands out from the pack because it fits very close to the body for an OWB type.
This close body fit is great for keeping your firearm safely concealed while also allowing for fast draws and re-holstering. It’s worth mentioning that even with such a close fit, the holster still manages to maximize comfort.
It is a handcrafted holster made using strong 0.08-inch Kydex material. And even though the overall construction is heavy-duty, the entire unit still manages to minimize weight effectively.
You can adjust its cant from 0 to 15 degrees, allowing for a more optimized firearm positioning. Then there’s the partial, but highly reliable, sweat guard backing, which protects your firearms from perspiration, especially if you carry regularly in hot weather.
The R&R Holsters OWB does, however, miss out on the adjustable retention, which is present in other rival models. Even with the absence of this feature, the holster’s slim profile does a great job to compensate.
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How to Buy the Best Kydex Holsters
1. IWB vs. OWB
There are 2 main types of Kydex holsters: inside the waistband (IWB) and outside the waistband (OWB) holsters.
Their names are self-explanatory. With the IWB types , the gun is tucked inside your pants, along the waistband. Less of the gun shows on the outside, which means that IWB holsters offer more concealment. They’re also more stable because of the many contact points with your body.
With OWB holsters, the gun is carried on the outside of your pants. They offer a more natural carrying mechanism. Drawing and re-holstering are also easy with OWB holsters.
These holsters are, however, not the best for concealed carry, simply because they are on the outside. Weapons are much easier to identify because of possible bulging.
2. Your Guns
Your choice of Kydex holster will depend largely on the type of guns you carry. It's almost impossible to have a universal holster, perhaps due to the vast handgun models and their variants, in existence.
So, to get the right holster fit for your gun, start by confirming the weapon’s make and model, for instance, Glocks, S&W, or any other type of gun you may be owning.
Then, proceed to explore holster types designed for your gun family and model. That way, you will be getting a holster that fits, right from the start.
3. Concealment
For concealed carrying, the primary goal is to hide your weapon as much as possible. An IWB holster offers the best concealing capacity because the gun goes into your pants.
That said, OWB holsters can also get very compact, which can boost their ability to hide the weapon, even when it is on the outside.
Take note of weapon printing, which is the showing of a holstered weapon through your clothes. Printing is common in hot climates and may impact the type of Kydex holster you ultimately get.
4. Retention
Weapon retention determines how secure your Kydex holster grips the weapon. You don’t want a holster that will increase the chances of accidental discharges or guns dropping.
Since weapon and holster sizes differ, most of the top Kydex holsters available today come equipped with a fully-adjustable retention system.
Using retention screws, it’s possible to adjust how tight your holster holds your weapon without interfering with smooth draws.
5. Protection
Even though a Kydex holster’s primary purpose is to offer a convenient carrying mechanism, it should also be capable of protecting your weapon effectively.
Sweat guards are some of the most reliable protective mechanisms offered by Kydex holsters. Since perspiration is a common occurrence especially with regular carrying in hot climates, sweat guards will protect both the gun and its carrier.
Another thing to check for is the holster’s interior. Since this part is the one in direct contact with the firearm, it should at least be non-abrasive, to protect your gun’s finish.
6. Comfort
Comfort is a major consideration when choosing Kydex holsters, primarily because their functionality is directly tied to close body contact.
Whether the holster goes inside or outside the waistband, it has to be very comfortable when worn, otherwise, it will make for a subpar carrying experience.
Holster compactness, and the use of thin 0.08-inch Kydex, helps boost comfort. FoxX Holsters IWB offers this, and other enhancements such as multiple ride heights to diversify comfort levels.
7. Durability
Naturally, we all desire a holster that will offer years of reliable service, even with regular carrying. That’s why durability should be a priority when choosing the accessory.
Luckily, Kydex became the first choice of holster material primarily because of its durability over alternatives such as leather.
It is one of the most hard-wearing materials, designed to thrive even in extreme conditions, making holster models such as PoLe.Craft Glock 19 some of the most durable, today.
Conclusion
From our Kydex holster review, it’s evident that these accessories are vital for the occasional and regular carrying of firearms, especially concealed ones.
If you’re looking for the best holster for a wide variety of Glock models, choose our top pick, the Concealment Express IWB . It is small, comfortable, and reliable sweat protection.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive option that still delivers quality and reliability, the Desantis Slim-Tuk is very affordable.
And if comfort is your main priority, consider getting the FoxX Holsters IWB Kydex holster for its multiple ride height positions.