Choosing the right holster is a non-negotiable part of responsible concealed carry, and after years of testing gear in demanding environments, I’ve come to trust Kydex above almost all other materials. Its rigid structure provides a consistent, secure draw and completely covers the trigger guard, two features I won’t compromise on. Whether you prefer carrying inside the waistband (IWB) for maximum concealment or outside the waistband (OWB) for comfort and speed, the market is flooded with options, but only a handful truly excel.
This guide cuts through the noise. I’ve personally vetted and tested dozens of the most popular models to bring you this list of the best Kydex holsters for 2025. We’ll break down the top choices for both IWB and OWB carry, focusing on critical factors like retention, comfort, durability, and how well they conceal your firearm. My goal is to give you the straight talk you need to find a holster that you’ll trust every day, from the range to real-world situations.
My Top Picks for the Best Kydex Holsters in 2025
- Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite IWB Holster
- Trex Arms Sidecar IWB Holster
- Vedder Holsters LightTuck IWB Kydex Holster
- Safariland 7378 7TS ALS OWB Holster
- BraDeC LE Series OWB Paddle Holster
- We The People Holsters IWB Kydex Holster
Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite IWB Holster
If you carry a spare magazine and demand the highest level of performance, the Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite is in a class of its own. This is a modular, sidecar-style holster where the pistol holster and magazine carrier are connected by a flexible hinge. This design is a game-changer for comfort and concealment. Unlike rigid, one-piece sidecars, the Axis Elite flexes with your body as you move, sit, and bend, eliminating the hot spots and digging that can plague other designs. It distributes the weight of both the gun and mag evenly across your belt line.
The attention to detail on the Axis Elite is exceptional. From the premium materials to the precise molding, every aspect feels purpose-built. The holster features Tier 1’s proprietary “U” clips for a discreet under-belt attachment and an aggressive claw that tucks the grip beautifully. Retention is rock-solid and adjustable. While it’s a significant investment and has a longer lead time due to being made-to-order, the performance is unmatched. For anyone serious about appendix carry with a spare mag, this is the holster to get.
Pros
- Flexible hinge provides superior comfort and mobility
- Outstanding concealment for a gun and magazine combo
- Top-tier build quality and attention to detail
Cons
- Higher price point than many competitors
- Longer wait time for delivery as it’s custom made
Trex Arms Sidecar IWB Holster
The Trex Arms Sidecar is the original rigid sidecar holster that popularized the integrated gun-and-magazine concept for appendix carry. It’s a single, solid piece of Kydex that holds both your pistol and a spare magazine, creating a single, stable unit on your belt. The design is incredibly efficient, keeping everything in a consistent, predictable position. This makes re-holstering your firearm and accessing your spare mag very intuitive. The included “Wing” claw is highly effective at pulling the grip tight to your body for minimal printing.
I find the Sidecar excels for those who prefer a rigid, locked-in feel. The wide base distributes weight well and prevents the holster from tipping. Trex Arms is also known for its extensive compatibility with weapon-mounted lights and red dot sights, which is a huge advantage. The main consideration is comfort; because it doesn’t flex, it can be less forgiving for certain body types when sitting for long periods. However, for its intended purpose—creating a highly accessible and concealable system—the Sidecar remains a top-tier, battle-proven choice.
Pros
- Rigid design offers a very stable and consistent platform
- Excellent compatibility with lights and optics
- Highly effective concealment with the standard wing
Cons
- Lack of flex can be less comfortable for some body types
- One-piece design is less modular than competitors
Vedder Holsters LightTuck IWB Kydex Holster
The Vedder LightTuck is my go-to recommendation for anyone looking for a no-nonsense, incredibly reliable IWB holster. Its minimalist design is its greatest strength, offering a low-profile carry that disappears under just a t-shirt. The single, wide clip is sturdy and features a unique claw attachment that actively rotates the grip of your pistol inward against your body, drastically reducing printing. What I appreciate most is the full range of adjustability; you can customize the cant (angle) and ride height to an exact degree, allowing you to find your personal sweet spot for comfort and a fast, smooth draw.
Constructed from premium .08” Kydex, the LightTuck is both lightweight and durable. The retention is adjustable via a single screw, and it holds the firearm securely with a satisfying, audible click. I’ve used this holster for everything from all-day carry to training courses, and it has never failed. The sweat guard is a nice touch, protecting your skin and your gun’s slide. While it’s a simple design, Vedder’s execution is nearly perfect, making it an outstanding choice for both new and experienced carriers who value precision and simplicity.
Pros
- Excellent concealment with the included claw
- Fully adjustable cant and ride height
- Secure, single-clip design is easy to put on and take off
Cons
- Can feel a bit narrow against the body for some users
- Minimalist design lacks extra accessory storage
Safariland 7378 7TS ALS OWB Holster
For open carry, duty use, or range days, you simply cannot beat the active retention of a Safariland ALS system. The model 7378 is a fantastic example of this proven technology in a more compact, concealable OWB package. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) is my gold standard for security; it automatically locks the firearm in place upon holstering, and a simple thumb-release on the hood disengages the lock for a lightning-fast draw. This gives you absolute confidence that your weapon is secure, even in a crowd or during physical activity.
This particular model comes with a paddle and a belt slide attachment, giving you options for how you want to wear it. The paddle is great for quick on/off, while the belt slide offers a more stable platform. The holster body is durable and features a hood guard to protect your optic if you run one. While it’s bulkier than a passive retention holster, that bulk is the price of unparalleled security. If your primary concern for OWB carry is making sure your gun stays in your holster no matter what, Safariland is the only answer.
Pros
- Best-in-class active retention with the ALS system
- Very fast and intuitive draw stroke
- Includes both paddle and belt loop attachments
Cons
- Bulkier than passive retention OWB holsters
- Not designed for deep concealment
BraDeC LE Series OWB Paddle Holster
For a budget-friendly OWB option that doesn’t cut corners on core functionality, the BraDeC LE Series is a solid pick. This holster uses a passive retention system, meaning the gun is held in place by the tight, precise fit of the Kydex itself. The retention is adjustable via a screw, allowing you to set it to your preferred tightness. The paddle design is my favorite feature; it’s broad and contoured to hook securely over your belt, making it very stable while still being incredibly easy to put on and take off in seconds.
This is an ideal holster for frequent trips to the range, training classes, or for anyone who needs a simple, reliable OWB option without the complexity of an active retention system. The sight channel is clear, the trigger guard is fully protected, and the overall build quality is impressive for the price. It’s not as sleek as some high-end custom holsters, but it performs its intended function very well. If you’re looking for a workhorse OWB holster that gets the job done without breaking the bank, BraDeC delivers excellent value.
Pros
- Very affordable price point
- Secure and comfortable paddle attachment
- Simple, effective passive retention
Cons
- Passive retention is less secure than active systems like ALS
- Finish and detailing are more utilitarian than premium brands
We The People Holsters IWB Kydex Holster
We The People Holsters have made a name for themselves by offering stylish, American-made Kydex holsters at an accessible price. Their standard IWB holster is a great entry point into the world of quality Kydex. It features a simple, effective design with a single, metal clip and a solid Kydex shell that provides excellent trigger guard coverage. The holsters come in a wide array of colors and patterns, so you can personalize your gear to match your style, which is a nice touch you don’t always see.
From a functional standpoint, it does the job well. The retention is adjustable and secure, and the overall profile is slim for comfortable all-day carry. I would recommend adding their optional “Claw” attachment for better concealment, as it makes a significant difference in reducing printing. While it may not have all the advanced features or ultra-premium finishes of some higher-priced competitors, it represents a fantastic value. For someone new to carrying or looking for a reliable, no-fuss holster without a hefty price tag, We The People is a trustworthy option.
Pros
- Great value for an American-made holster
- Wide variety of colors and designs available
- Slim, comfortable profile for all-day wear
Cons
- Concealment claw is an optional add-on, not standard
- Single clip can allow some rotation for certain body types
Best Kydex Holsters [IWB and OWB Carry] in 2025 – Marine Vetted
As a Marine, my gear has to work. There’s no room for failure, and that standard applies directly to my civilian carry setup. When it comes to holsters, Kydex is my go-to material for its durability, security, and consistent performance. After testing dozens of options on the range and in real-world conditions, I’ve put together this guide to the best Kydex holsters for both IWB (Inside the Waistband) and OWB (Outside the Waistband) carry in 2025.
For IWB carry, concealment and comfort are king. The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite is a top pick. It’s a sidecar-style holster that carries your pistol and a spare magazine as a single unit. The flexible hinge between the modules makes it surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear, and the retention is absolutely solid. If you prefer a simpler, single-clip design, the Vedder LightTuck is a fantastic and affordable option. Its adjustable cant and ride height let you customize the fit perfectly to your body.
When I’m heading to the range or carrying openly where legal, OWB is my preference. For a balance of speed and security, the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS is hard to beat. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides an audible click when holstering, locking the gun in place until you disengage the lever with your thumb. It’s the closest you can get to a duty-level holster for civilian use. For competition or pure range use, the T-Rex Arms Ragnarok is a minimalist holster that offers lightning-fast draws and is compatible with a wide array of weapon light setups.
No matter which style you choose, look for a few key features. A fully molded Kydex shell that covers the trigger guard is non-negotiable for safety. A quality belt clip, like a Discrete Carry Concepts (DCC) Monoblock, is essential for secure attachment. Finally, consider the ride height and cant adjustments; these small tweaks make a huge difference in how the holster feels and performs. The right choice between IWB and OWB comes down to your daily activities, wardrobe, and personal preference for comfort versus accessibility.
FAQ
What makes a Kydex holster a good choice for concealed carry?
Kydex is a thermoplastic that is rigid, durable, and resistant to sweat and moisture. Unlike leather, it won’t lose its shape over time, which means the retention—how snugly it holds your gun—stays consistent. This rigidness also means the holster won’t collapse when you draw your firearm, allowing for a smooth and safe re-holstering. For everyday carry, this reliability is what you need.
How do I know if the retention on my holster is set correctly?
Good retention is a balance between security and speed. You should be able to hold the holster upside down and shake it vigorously without the firearm falling out. However, when you grip the pistol properly, your draw stroke should be clean and consistent without having to fight the holster. Most quality Kydex holsters allow for retention adjustment via screws; a quarter-turn can make a big difference, so make small adjustments and test frequently.
Is a claw or wing attachment really necessary for IWB carry?
In my experience, yes, a claw is one of the most effective upgrades for concealed carry. This small piece of plastic attaches to the holster near the trigger guard and presses against the inside of your belt. This action rotates the grip of the pistol inward, toward your body, significantly reducing printing (when the outline of the gun is visible through your clothing). For anyone carrying a compact or full-size pistol, a claw is a game-changer for concealment.
Can I use the same holster for my gun if I add a weapon-mounted light?
No, you cannot. A Kydex holster is heat-molded to the exact dimensions of your specific firearm. Adding a light changes the profile of the gun completely. You must use a holster that is specifically designed for your pistol and your specific light model. Using an ill-fitting holster is a major safety hazard, as it can obstruct the trigger guard.
What’s the main difference between an IWB and OWB holster in terms of everyday use?
The primary difference is concealment versus accessibility. An IWB holster is designed to be hidden inside your waistband, making it the standard for discreet, concealed carry. It can be less comfortable in hot weather or with certain clothing. An OWB holster sits outside the waistband on your belt. It’s generally more comfortable and allows for a faster draw, but it is much more difficult to conceal and is better suited for open carry or range use. Your choice between the two should be a key part of your selection process for the best Kydex holsters [IWB and OWB Carry] in 2025.
How should I clean and maintain my Kydex holster?
Kydex is very low maintenance. For general cleaning, just wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust, lint, and sweat. You can use a mild soap if needed. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as they can potentially degrade the material over time. Periodically check the tightness of the retention screws and the hardware on your clips, as they can loosen with daily wear.