A well-chosen shirt can help you conceal carry effectively and comfortably. Look for breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics that are also durable and offer comfort during extended wear. When carrying inside the waistband, a tank top can help to mask the outline of your firearm and holster from the rest of your body. This technique can be especially effective with thin fabric blouses that tend to cling to the line of your gun and holster.

Easier Access

Several holster shirt options allow you to carry and access your method of self-defense easily. These include pocket holsters, small pouches inserted into the pockets of regular shirts, and undershirt holsters that feature adjustable straps that secure a weapon. Compression-style holster shirts are designed to fit snugly against the body, helping to distribute firearm weight evenly and reduce movement during physical activities. Some even feature moisture-wicking technology to help keep the wearer cool and dry.

Many people use holster shirts for concealed carry because they eliminate the need to wear additional bulky holsters with their clothing. This helps to maintain a covert profile in any environment. The specialized fabric used to make these shirts is also abrasion-resistant and durable, making them an excellent option for individuals who regularly carry firearms in demanding environments. However, it’s important to note that you still need to train with your firearm to ensure you can clear your cover garment promptly.

Improved Concealment

When you wear loose pants or business attire, the holster clip attached to your gun belt is one of the only visible elements. Choosing a thin, low-profile clip with a non-reflective finish will help reduce this visibility. On the other hand, a holster shirt makes it possible to minimize printing while tucked in.

A holster shirt is a form-fitting garment that will help prevent chaffing while securely stowing and concealing a firearm and any accessories. Some designs also have integrated shoulder yokes that distribute gun weight evenly and reduce movement.

In addition, a holster shirt can be worn over an appendix carry rig. This helps reduce the likelihood of printing by preventing your gun’s grip from pushing into the waistline of your pants when you bend or stretch. It will also prevent your holster from shifting, making it easier to access when needed. Many designs have a tie or knot front, and some include additional pockets to conceal your phone and wallet.

Comfort

A key part of concealed carry is ensuring you can clear your cover garment to access your firearm. If a shirt is too tight or makes this difficult, it can make concealment much harder.

This is one reason holster shirts have longer hems than a typical shirt; they’re designed to give you more material to tuck under your waistband and hide your holster. It’s also why most manufacturers offer tuckable IWB clips with a deep gap between the top of the clip that goes outside your belt and the bottom that attaches to your holster.

Some fabrics can easily cling to the outline of a gun and holster, which can cause printing. A holster shirt with thicker fabric, such as silk, can help prevent this from happening, especially in dry climates where static is common. It also helps to wear a tank top underneath a blouse to further distract the eye from the outline of your firearm and holster.