Best Kydex Holster

When choosing a holster for your concealed carry pistol, it’s important to use the right material. For example, nylon holsters are soft, flexible, and inexpensive, but typically aren’t durable enough to be used for EDC purposes. Conversely, you’ll notice that many of the top IWB holsters and even many OWB holsters are made of leather. Leather holsters are also comfortable, but the ones that are good enough to be worth buying tend to be very expensive.

Kydex holsters straddle the line between rigidity and price, without the need to skimp on quality. Simply put, the best kydex holster costs much less that the best leather holster, because it’s cheaper to pour hot kydex into a mold than it is to stitch, shape, and cure several layers of leather and padding. As a result, just about every top selling holster on the market is an IWB kydex holster.

So, which is the best IWB kydex holster? Here are our top choices.

Best Kydex Holsters Available

1. Concealment Express IWB KYDEX Holster

The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster has a large, protective sweat guard that keeps your pistol from corroding.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, 27, 31, 32, and 33
• Full-length sweat guard
• Available left and right handed
• Adjustable retention and cant

The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster is designed to fit some of the most popular pistols on the market. These include the Glock 17 and 19, Glock’s two most powerful models, as well as the 22, 23, 26, 27, 31, 32, and 33 variants on those frames. It’s even designed to carry the latest Gen 5 versions of these pistols, so your brand new baby and your vintage daily driver will both be safe and secure.

This holster features a full-length kydex sweat guard, which is designed to separate your gun from your skin or undershirt. This keeps your pistol dry, and keeps it from corroding unnecessarily. It also allows you to adjust the cant on the belt clip, so you can customize your grip. Simply loosen the three Phillips head screws, and you can swivel the holster 15 degrees.

In addition, the Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster comes in both left and right handed variants. Whichever side you draw from, this holster will be able to accommodate your needs.

Pros

• Good sweat protection
• Secure, clicking grip
• Can be carried in multiple positions
• Adjustable clip

Cons

• Does not cover the entire Glock 17 barrel

If you’re looking for a kydex holster that will accommodate a Glock 17, this one will do the trick.

2. DTOM Ultimate Tuck IWB Hybrid Holster

The DTOM Ultimate Tuck IWB is designed to print as little as possible, with a wide, flat leather waist guard.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, and 27
• Kydex shell and leather waist guard
• Right handed design
• Adjustable, steel belt clips

The DTOM Ultimate Tuck IWB is the second Glock 17 holster on our list, and like the last one it’s also compatible with the Glock 19 and a handful of other variants. Because it doesn’t offer any retention adjustment, it’s not suitable for as wide a variety of pistols as the Concealment Express, particularly for the largest pistols, but it’s still well-sized for the most common CCW guns.

This holster is screw-mounted to a wide leather waist guard, which is the reason there aren’t any adjustment options. The waist guard itself has three adjustable positions for the belt hook, so you can modify the height, but there’s no cant or retention adjustment.

That said, the waist guard is an excellent value. It spreads out the profile of your gun, reducing printing to a bare minimum. The thick leather also absorbs heat very well, so you won’t burn your leg even if you holster a hot pistol at the range.

Pros

• Wide, flat, and comfortable
• Durable construction
• Secure belt clip
• Lifetime replacement guarantee

Cons

• Doesn’t cover the entire trigger guard
• Clip is not adjustable

This holster is very comfortable to wear, with no pressure points to dig into your skin.

3. CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster

The CYA Supply IWB Holster features a durable stainless steel clip that’s fully adjustable.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 19, 19X,23, 32, and 45
• Powder coated stainless steel belt clip
• Full-length sweat guard
• Right handed design
• Adjustable retention and cant

The CYA Supply IWB Holster is designed for larger-framed Glocks, including the 19, 19X, 23, 32, and even the beefier 45. As advertised, it will accommodate the newer Gen 5 variants, but be aware that some Gen 5s come with an ambidextrous slide release. The holster won’t accommodate the left-side release on these models, so make sure you’re using a right-handed gun before you buy one.

That said, this holster is very well designed, and is engineered to keep your gun safe and your draw smooth. A full-length slide guard protects your pistol from corrosion, and the belt clip is rugged and easy to adjust. In addition, the manufacturer includes a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. Don’t like your holster? Send it back, no questions asked.

The cant and retention screws on this holster are all adjustable, so you can customize the tightness to fit perfectly for your model, and the angle for your preferred draw. Just make sure to have an Allen key handy, since you’ll need one for adjustments, and none is included with the kit.

Pros

• Durable construction
• Firm retention
• 100 percent satisfaction guarantee

Cons

• Does not fit pistols with an ambidextrous slide release

This holster is constructed for as much retention as possible for a CCW pistol.

4. Fierce Defender IWB Kydex Holster

The Fierce Defender Paladin Series offers discreet printing, along with powerful retention.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 19, 23, and 32
• Claw attachment for reduced printing
• Full-length sweat guard
• Right handed design

The Fierce Defender Paladin Series is a large kydex holster that’s adjustable to fit a Glock 19, 23, or 32. It’s molded to hit even the latest variants, including the Gen 5. It has an open design, which allows for wide opening that makes it easy to holster, while still including a full-length sweat guard and a trigger guard that covers the entire trigger assembly. That said, the open design is too wide for the Glock 17 and similar frames, while the retention is not adjustable enough to accommodate larger 19-frame pistols like the 45. The retention screws are also prone to slipping, so you’ll want to apply some Loctite when you first adjust them.

One neat feature on this holster is the unique “claw” extension, which is basically a flat kydex panel that extends down from the bottom of the grip and across to the muzzle, creating a square profile that looks like anything but a pistol. This attachment is removable, so you can take it off if it makes your gun uncomfortable.

Pros

• Easy holstering and release
• Strong retention
• Reduced printing

Cons

• Difficult to adjust retention

For a large pistol like the Glock 19, quality retention is essential, and this holster provides it.

5. Fierce Defender IWB Kydex Holster

The Fierce Defender +1 Series features a built-in magazine pouch, so you can carry as much ammo as you need.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 19, 23, and 32
• Built-in magazine pouch
• Full-length sweat guard
• Right handed design
• Adjustable retention
• Designed for abdominal carry

The Fierce Defender +1 Series is a Glock 19 holster that also carries an extra magazine. It will also fit the Glock 23 and 32, including the latest Gen 5 variants. This is a wide holster, designed for AIWB carry.

This holster is right-handed only, designed to be worn just on the right side of your abdomen. It also features a magazine pocket that’s located on your left side, which makes it easy to pull out your replacement magazine with your left hand. The downside is that there’s no left-handed version available, so southpaws will need to look elsewhere.

This holster has a very wide profile, as we’ve already mentioned. This keeps the profile from looking at all like a gun, but the outer edges can dig into your gut. Then again, this design provides top-tier adjustable retention, which you don’t often see from a low-profile holster.

Pros

• Discreet concealment
• Easy to adjust the retention
• Large ammo capacity

Cons

• Poor magazine retention
• Uncomfortable edges

If you want to carry a magazine with your CCW, this holster is a good choice.

6. Concealment Express IWB KYDEX Holster

This Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster is identical to the Glock 17 holster that kicked off our list.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 43 and 43X
• Full-length sweat guard
• Available left and right handed
• Adjustable retention and cant

If the Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster looks familiar, it should. This is a smaller version of the first holster on our list, but it’s sized for the subcompact Glock 43 and 43X, rather than for the standard-sized Glock 19.

This holster offers excellent retention. It’s molded to fit your pistol’s contours like a glove, and it clicks when your gun locks into place, so you know it’s secure. Retention is also adjustable, so you can have as tight or as loose of a draw as you desire. Be careful of the front corner on the muzzle. It’s sharp, and it can dig into your skin or snag your clothes if you’re not careful.

Pros

• Can be carried in any position
• Secure retention
• Adjustable cant and retention

Cons

• Sharp corner can snag inside your pants

If you want a subcompact holster that works like the real thing and not a toy, this will do the trick.

7. Gritr Universal Holster

The Gritr Universal Holster includes a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty, so you can use it as long as you own your pistol.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 48 and 43X
• Built-in magazine pouch
• Full-length sweat guard
• Available left and right handed
• Adjustable retention
• Designed for abdominal carry

The Gritr Universal Holster is designed to carry both a Glock 48 pistol and a spare magazine. If you tighten the retention screw, it’s also suitable for carrying a slimmer Glock 43X. Just make sure to adjust the screw with the pistol holstered, and loosen as necessary for release, rather than going the other way around. The last thing you want is to find out at the critical moment that your holster is too tight.

The design itself is durable, with a wide, heavy-duty belt clip that’s rubber coated to protect both your belt and your fingers. The design is backed by Gritr’s lifetime warranty, which guarantees all components for the lifetime of the holster. Essentially, this is the last holster you’re ever going to need to buy. When adjusted properly, this holster will click when your pistol is secure, so you know you have a safe carry. That said, it’s not very comfortable, with a wide design that can dig into your stomach or your hip when you’re sitting.

Pros

• Secure clicking retention
• Rugged and durable
• Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty

Cons

• Uncomfortable fit

This holster will carry not just your pistol, but additional ammo to boot.

8. Tulster M&P Shield Holster IWB

The Tulster M&P Shield Holster provides secure retention for your M&P Shield.

Key Features

• Fits the M&P Shield in 9mm or .40 caliber
• Full-length sweat guard
• Right handed design
• Adjustable retention and cant

The Tulster M&P Shield Holster is the first holster on our list that’s not designed for a Glock pistol. Instead, it’s built to carry the M&P Shield, Smith and Wesson’s popular alternative automatic pistol. Be aware that it’s sized for the 9mm or the .40 caliber. Other variants of the Shield will be too large, but when properly sized, this holster provides a discreet, minimal print.

The retention on the Tulster is adjustable, as is the cant, which can be rotated up to 30 degrees. This allows for a comfortable carry in almost any position around your waist. It also clicks when your pistol is secured, although obviously you’ll have to adjust the retention properly in order  for this function to work. This is a pricey holster, much more costly than you’d pay for a Glock holster of similar quality. Then again, when it comes to holsters for the M&P Shield, there are far fewer options, so what you see is what you get.

Pros

• Strong retention
• Discreet printing
• Can be carried in any position

Cons

• Pricey

Whether you’re carrying in the small of your back or inside your waistband, this holster provides a flat, discreet profile.

9. B.B.F Make IWB KYDEX Holster

The BBF Make IWB Kydex Holster is designed to carry your Taurus pistol anywhere on your waistband.

Key Features

• Fits the Taurus G2C, Millennium G2, PT111, and PT140
• Full-length sweat guard
• Right handed design
• Stainless steel belt clip
• Adjustable retention and cant

The BBF Make IWB Kydex Holster is a universal holster for the Taurus G2C frame. This means it will carry not only the G2C, but the Millennium G2, PT111, and PT140. It’s designed to carry in just about any position, with a cant that’s easily adjustable along a 15-degree axis. Printing with this holster is minimal, with its angled design that pitches the grip towards your body. The belt clip is very sturdy, with a powder coated stainless steel design that can take a lot of abuse.

The BBF Make features an adjustable retention, as well as an adjustable cant. Simply loosen the large, Phillips screws, and you can pivot the holster in either direction. The construction is very durable, with thick sides that remain rigid even under a lot of stress.

Pros

• Rugged construction
• Easy to adjust
• Discreet printing
• Can be worn in multiple positions

Cons

• Loose retention

For durability and discreet carrying, this holster is a must for any Taurus owner.

10. Fobus Concealed Carry Paddle Holster

The Fobus Concealed Carry Paddle Holster is as discreet as you can possibly make a 1911 holster.

Key Features

• Fits the Colt 1911 and other .45-caliber 1911 pistols
• Includes double magazine pouch
• Built-in leather hip guard
• Right handed design

The Fobus Concealed Carry Paddle Holster is an ideal choice for your 1911. Now, the 1911 isn’t the most concealable pistol by nature, but Fobus does a good job of making it as discreet as possible. It features heavy leather paddles to break up the profile, and a heavy duty kydex shell that’s able to take a ton of abuse.

This holster manages to accommodate all 1911 models by locking onto the trigger guard, rather onto the upper part of the frame. This offers more versatility than you’d get from frame retention, but there’s no adjustment screw, so your grip is exactly what it’s going to be.

Pros

• Large ammo capacity
• Discreet printing
• Durable construction

Cons

• Not adjustable
• Holds single-stack magazines only

The double magazine sleeves in this holster allow you to carry plenty of ammunition for your CCW needs.

11. B.B.F Make IWB KYDEX Holster

The BBF Make IWB Kydex Holster provides for minimal printing, and is easy to carry anywhere around your waistband.

Key Features

• Fits the Sig Sauer P938
• Full-length sweat guard
• Available left and right handed
• Stainless steel belt clip
• Adjustable retention and cant

The BBF Make IWB Kydex Holster is built for the Sig Sauer P938, which is one of the newer pistols on the market. It’s only been on the market since 2011, but it’s quickly gained popularity, to the extent that we thought it would be worthwhile to include a holster that’s designed for it.

This holster is engineered to stay securely mounted on your belt, with a powder coated steel clip that holds it securely against your body, which keeps the printing to a discreet flat profile. It’s also adjustable for a variety of draw styles, with a cant that’s adjustable by 15 degrees. Finally, it includes a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty.

Pros

• Durable hardware
• Discreet printing
• Can be worn in multiple positions
• Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty

Cons

• Poor retention

If you’re looking for a reliable holster for your P938, this is a good choice.

12. FoxX Holsters Deluxe Trapp Kydex IWB Holster

The FoxX Holsters Deluxe Trapp is exceptionally comfortable for a kydex IWB holster.

Key Features

• Fits the Ruger SR9C and SR40C
• Built-in sweat shield
• Right handed design
• Kydex belt clip
• Adjustable retention and cant

The FoxX Holsters Deluxe Trapp is another offbeat holster, but you’ll appreciate this if you’re a Ruger owner. The Deluxe Trapp is designed for the Ruger SR9C and SR40C, allowing you to carry Ruger’s most popular pistols with ease. Like many of the Glock holsters we’ve looked at, it’s adjustable to 15 degrees, allowing for a variety of carry positions.

The sweat shield is disappointing. It doesn’t cover the pistol all the way to the back of the slide. On the one hand, this is comfortable, but on the other hand, it means you’ll need to be extra-rigorous with your cleaning and oiling regimen to avoid corrosion.

Pros

• Plenty of retention
• Discreet printing
• Comfortable

Cons

• Minimal sweat protection

This holster provides a discreet, flat profile for your Ruger pistol.

13. Glock IWB Holster

The Concealed Carrier Glock 19 IWB Holster offers a rugged design at an affordable price.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 19, 19X, 23, 32, and 45
• Kydex construction
• Left and right-handed versions available
• Plastic belt clip

The Concealed Carrier Glock 19 IWB Holster is purpose-built for the Glock 19, although the adjustable fit allows you to loosen it enough to fit the larger-framed 19X, 23, 32, and 45. The belt clip is constructed from a soft plastic, and can be adjusted to 15 degrees in either direction. That said, the plastic isn’t as durable as steel, so it won’t last as long when you’re carrying it on an everyday basis.

Pros

• Adjustable retention and cant
• Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Plastic belt clip

This holster is designed to be adjustable, both on the cant and the retention, allowing for an easy draw regardless of your individual technique.

14. Fierce Defender TLR1 Holster

Fierce Defender’s The Warrior Series is rough, rugged, and ready to rumble.

Key Features

• Fits Glock 19-frame pistols with Streamlight attachment
• Kydex construction
• Designed for IWB carry

Fierce Defender’s The Warrior Series is designed for the Glock 19 and similar framed pistols, although not the enormous 45. It’s made for a pistol with a Streamlight attachment, so like the last holster we looked at, it’s not an ideal choice if you’re using a pistol with no accessories.

This holster features a large inner sweat shield, which keeps your gun safe from corrosion and wear. It’s also adjustable for a variety of carry positions and draw strengths.

Pros

• Durable construction
• Highly customizable retention
• Large sweat guard

Cons

• A little pricey

There aren’t many holsters designed to accommodate a Streamlight attachment; this one is very well designed.

15. Fierce Defender IWB Kydex Holster

The Fierce Defender Winter Warrior Series has a rugged design, with three adjustable grommets to customize your retention.

Key Features

• Fits the Glock 19, 19X, 23, and 32
• Designed for IWB carry
• Designed for pistols with scopes

The Fierce Defender Winter Warrior Series is a designed to carry the Glock 19, along with the Glock 19X, 23, and 32, which utilize the same frame. It has a narrow design that’s perfect for carrying in any position, although the cant isn’t adjustable, so you may have trouble getting it to sit right in the small of your back.

The body of the holster itself has a wide opening, with a cutout that’s designed for pistols with reflex sights and red dot scopes. This means it’s a poor choice for a pistol with no accessories. Then again, if you use a sight, it’s a fantastic choice.

Pros

• Adjustable retention
• Discreet printing
• Fits all Glock 19-frame pistols

Cons

• On the pricey side

If you want a reliable holster for carrying your pistol with the sight attached, the Winter Warrior Series has you covered.

Bottom Line

So, which is the best kydex IWB holster?

As you’ve probably noticed, your primary concern is going to be whether the holster even fits your gun. Kydex is a solid material, and every kydex concealed holster is molded to fit a specific gun frame. This sometimes means that a single holster will fit multiple guns — for example, the popular Glock 17 frame, which is the basis for more than half a dozen other pistols. On the other hand, many popular guns are unique, or you may own a boutique pistol. In these cases, your options will be more limited.

Another important thing to look at is the sweat guard. This is a critical feature on an IWB holster, since it keeps your pistol safe from getting sweated all over. A large sweat guard also ensures that your pistol’s hardware won’t get snagged on an undershirt while you’re holstering or retrieving your weapon.