Kydex Holsters for Every Season: How to Adapt to Changing Weather

Concealed carry is a year-round commitment, and adapting to seasonal changes is essential for maintaining comfort, accessibility, and firearm protection. The summer presents the challenges of sweat and lighter clothing that may make your carrying more noticeable. On the other hand, winter creates the challenges of wet, cold temperatures and bulky layers of clothing. One of the most effective ways to navigate these shifts is by choosing the right holster material. We use Boltaron for the vast majority of our Black Holsters. Kydex holsters, known for their durability and versatility, offer distinct advantages across different weather conditions. This guide explores how various seasons affect concealed carry and how Kydex holsters can help you adjust to varying concealed carry clothing styles and temperatures.

Spring and Summer: Embracing Lightweight and Moisture-Resistant Carry

As temperatures rise and clothing becomes lighter, concealed carry presents unique challenges. The need for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics increases, and the risk of sweat damaging your firearm becomes a concern. Additionally, with lighter clothing, you may want to swap what firearm you’re carrying in order to leave less of a grip print under a T-shirt or blouse. You need a Kydex Holsters for Every Season.  Concealed carry is just that, concealed carry.  We try to go about our daily lives with no additional attention being drawn upon us.

Kydex Advantages:

• Moisture Resistance: Unlike leather, Kydex or Boltaron is impervious to sweat and humidity, ensuring that your firearm remains protected from rust and corrosion. Kydex is reliable during the unpredictable storms of the spring and summer due to its water resistance.
• Slim Profile: Kydex holsters with a concealment wing attachment are designed for minimal bulk, making them ideal for carrying under light clothing such as T-shirts or tank tops.
• Sweat Guards: Many Kydex holsters feature built-in sweat guards that prevent perspiration from reaching your firearm, enhancing both comfort and protection.

Practical Tips:

• Opt for Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Carry: IWB holsters are easier to conceal under summer attire.
• Wear Moisture-Wicking Undergarments: Those with sensitive skin can wear a thin undershirt that can act as a barrier between your skin and the holster, reducing discomfort and preventing sweat buildup.
• Wear Looser Shirts: A baggier T-Shirt or tank top can help conceal your firearm easier than a tight polo or crop top. Additionally, wearing a shirt with a funky pattern can help deceive the eye into ignoring the print of your firearm.
• Choose Compact Firearms: Smaller pistols are easier to conceal and carry comfortably during warmer months. Keep in mind smaller handguns are generally not as easy to fire comfortably.

Fall: Balancing Layers and Accessibility to your Kydex Holsters for Every Season

Fall brings cooler temperatures and layered clothing, which can affect both concealment and access to your firearm. Layerable concealed carry clothing such as hoodies, flannels, or light jackets can help conceal your firearm, allowing for you to transition to a larger handgun from your smaller summer carry choice. Fall is also a peak season for outdoor activities such as hiking and hunting. You want to make sure you are ready for anything you may encounter in the outdoors at this time.

Kydex Advantages:

• Retention and Security: Kydex holsters provide positive retention, ensuring that your firearm stays securely in place, especially during dynamic movements. So invest in a sturdy belt for your holster to clip on to. Alternatively, you may opt for a metal fabric clip or DCC monoblock clip upgrade for your holster’s belt attachment to guarantee your holster stays in place no matter what pants you choose to wear.
• Adaptability: Many MK-Tek IWB holsters offer adjustable cant and ride height, allowing you to customize the holster’s position for optimal concealment and accessibility.

Practical Tips:

• Practice Drawing with Layers: Before heading out, practice drawing your firearm while wearing the layers you plan to use. This ensures that you can access your weapon quickly and efficiently.
• Maintain Holster Positioning: Ensure that your holster remains in a consistent position under your clothing to prevent printing and maintain quick access. Regardless of which belt attachment you choose at MK-Tek Holsters, your holster will remain in place once you decide on your carry placement.

Winter: Navigating Cold Weather Carry

Winter introduces challenges such as bulky clothing, cold temperatures, and potential moisture from snow or rain. But there are ways to take advantage of these challenges to help in concealment. With bulkier clothing you have the opportunity to swap out your smaller summer carry firearm for a larger gun. 

Kydex Advantages:

• Cold Weather Durability: Kydex remains sturdy in most cold temperatures. When carrying in weather below -20ºF, carry IWB and let your body heat warm the holster before going outside. This helps ensure that the holster will not become brittle in the extreme cold. (Kydex Thermoplastics)
• Water Resistance: Kydex’s resistance to water ensures that snow or rain won’t compromise your firearm’s protection. Wipe down your holster after a day of wear in wet conditions. This will prevent water from staying trapped between your holster and firearm which could lead to rust over time.

Practical Tips:

• Wear Accessible Outerwear: Choose concealed carry clothing and jackets or coats that allow easy access to your firearm without excessive movement or fumbling. Bulky clothing tends to slow down draw time, so be sure to practice quick draws in your winter clothing before you go out.
• Practice with Gloves: If you wear gloves during winter, practice drawing and handling your firearm to ensure you can operate it effectively. You should already be practicing your trigger control no matter the season, but it is especially important in the winter to make sure gloves are not going to slow you down in a high pressure situation.
• Regular Maintenance: Cold weather can affect firearm lubrication. Regularly clean and oil your firearm to ensure it functions smoothly.

Year-Round Maintenance and Care

Regardless of the season, proper maintenance of your Kydex holster is essential.

• Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean your holster to remove any debris or buildup that could affect its function. This is easily done by wiping down the interior with a silicone cloth.
• Check Retention: Ensure that the retention system is functioning correctly to keep your firearm secure. Once you’ve found your ideal retention, you can seal the screws into place with Blue LokTite. Even with the LokTite, check your screws frequently to make sure they have not loosened over time or been damaged.
• Inspect for Wear: Regularly inspect your holster for signs of wear or damage, especially at stress points.

Conclusion for Kydex Holsters for Every Season

Adapting your concealed carry setup to the changing seasons is crucial for maintaining comfort, accessibility, and firearm protection.  A Kydex Holsters for Every Season offers a versatile solution that can meet the demands of various weather conditions. By understanding the advantages of Kydex and implementing practical tips for each season, you can ensure that your concealed carry remains effective and comfortable year-round.