Concealed carry is becoming more of a common practice every day. With current events being what they are, and passed events ("peaceful protests") still being fresh in everyones mind, it stands to good reason that people are taking on the responsibility of their personal safety for themselves. Women are no different in this matter. An article from Ammo.com showed that as of 2024, 25% of American women owned guns. That is roughly 42 million women and an increase of 13% since 2022. With this increase in ownership comes the increase in those who want to not only own, but also carry for protection through the daily grind. Every day carry is not without a few challenges. Some of those challenges are common among men and women alike, but some are unique to women alone.

In this post, we’ll explore some of those specific challenges women face in concealed carry, share practical tips for finding the right setup, and offer encouragement for female carriers on this journey.

Why Kydex Holsters Are a Game-Changer for Women

Kydex holsters offer an unbeatable combination of security, durability, and customization, making them an ideal choice for women. Here’s why they stand out:

1. Secure Retention: Kydex holsters are molded specifically to fit your firearm, ensuring a snug and secure hold. For women who carry in different positions—whether appendix, strong side, or even off-body in an EDC bag/purse—this retention offers peace of mind.
2. Comfortable Designs: A well-made Kydex holster eliminates sharp edges and awkward bulk, making it easier to wear all day. Many holsters come with adjustable cant and ride height, allowing you to tailor the fit to your body and preferred carry position.
3. Durability: Unlike leather or fabric holsters, Kydex is resistant to wear and tear, maintaining its shape and functionality over time.
4. Concealment Options: Kydex holsters are slim and low-profile, minimizing printing and allowing for discreet carry, even with fitted clothing.

Now all of these tips may just seem like a shameless plug from a company that makes holsters. Of course we want to talk you into buying our products, but there is a good reason why we would mention Kydex over other the other options out there. Let's just face the obvious here, women and men are just built differently. Men typically have broader shoulders and narrower waists in proportion to the rest of their upper body. This makes carrying a firearm much easier to conceal. Women on the other hand are the exact opposite. A typically more narrow upper body and wider hips tend to make carrying quite a bit more difficult for women. This is where a quality Kydex holster can shine. Kydex holsters offer a level of adjustability, modularity, and overall customization that makes them far easier for women to adapt to their every day lives. Ride-height adjustment, belt clip cant, and other accessories specifically tailored for women make carrying not only more possible, but comfortable as well.

Overcoming Common Barriers in Concealed Carry

1. Finding the Right Holster and Placement

As stated above, one of the biggest challenges for women is finding a holster that works with their body type and wardrobe. Women’s clothing often features slimmer fits, higher waistlines, and softer fabrics, which can make concealed carry more challenging.

• Experiment with Carry Positions: Appendix inside-the-waistband (AIWB) carry is popular among women because it allows for quick access and works well with high-waisted pants. Strong-side carry is another option for those who prefer their firearm on the hip.
• Consider Off-Body Carry: For those who can’t comfortably carry on their person, a Kydex holster in a dedicated compartment of an EDC bag or purse is a viable option. Just make sure the firearm is easily accessible and never loose in the bag.

2. Dressing for Concealed Carry

It’s a myth that you have to overhaul your wardrobe to carry a firearm. With a little creativity, you can stay stylish while keeping your firearm concealed.

• Layering: Lightweight cardigans, jackets, or flannels can help conceal the outline of your holster.
• Flexible Fabrics: Look for pants or skirts with some stretch, which accommodate the added space of a holster.
• Belt Options: A sturdy gun belt is essential for on-body carry. If belts aren’t your style, look for holsters with clips designed for beltless carry. The Discreet Carry Concepts Monolock found on all of our Agent: IWB holsters is a great clip for carrying without a belt. 

3. Building Confidence Through Training

Carrying a firearm is a significant responsibility, and gaining confidence takes practice.

• Dry Fire Practice: Spend time drawing and reholstering your firearm at home to develop muscle memory. Practice with the clothing and holster you plan to use daily.
• Live Fire Training: Head to the range regularly to practice shooting from concealed carry. Focus on accuracy, drawing from your holster, and shooting on the move.
• Scenario-Based Drills: Participate in training classes that simulate real-life scenarios to build situational awareness and decision-making skills.

Encouragement for Female Carriers

You Belong in This Space

It’s easy to feel intimidated as a woman in the world of firearms, but remember: your safety and empowerment are worth it. Women are strong, capable, and more than equipped to handle the responsibility of concealed carry.

Stay Consistent

Carrying a firearm daily is a lifestyle, and consistency is key. Commit to carrying regularly, training often, and refining your setup as needed.

You’re Part of a Growing Community

More women than ever are stepping into the concealed carry world. Whether through local shooting clubs, online forums, or social media, you can connect with other women who share your experiences and learn from their journeys.

Final Thoughts

Concealed carry is about more than just protection—it’s about empowerment, responsibility, and confidence. With the right mindset, training, and equipment, women can overcome the barriers of concealed carry and feel prepared to protect themselves and their loved ones.

A high-quality Kydex holster is a vital tool in this journey, offering security, comfort, and versatility to meet the unique needs of female carriers. By investing in your safety and taking the time to find what works for you, you’ll join the growing ranks of women breaking barriers in concealed carry.

You’ve got this—carry confidently!

You can check out our wide range of holsters here.

You can also reach out to us anytime if you would like some help on picking out or customizing a holster to fit your needs!