For those who want the ability to conceal carry a firearm and be active, the balance between comfort, security, and discretion can feel tricky. Activewear is often form-fitting, lightweight, and designed for maximum movement, making traditional holsters feel cumbersome or awkward. Fortunately, with the right strategy and equipment, it’s possible to conceal carry securely and comfortably in your workout gear.
Choosing the Right Activewear
Your activewear choice plays a big role in how effectively and comfortably you can carry a concealed firearm during a workout. When selecting athletic gear, look for pieces that offer structure and flexibility.
Structured Athletic Wear
Structured activewear (like compression leggings or shorts with reinforced waistbands) will offer better support for a holster.
Look for high-waisted leggings or athletic shorts with belt loops or reinforced seams around the waist. These provide a more secure base for a holster and prevent your firearm from shifting or sagging while you move.
Layering Options
If you prefer looser clothing but still want the security of a structured waistband, layering will be your best friend.
Throw on a lightweight jacket, vest, or oversized top to mask any printing and keep your setup discreet. A hoodie or zip-up jacket also provides easy access to your weapon while keeping it hidden from view.
Use a Low-Profile Belt
Traditional gun belts can be too bulky for activewear, but a low-profile EDC belt tailored to your holster’s clip size is a game-changer.
Matching your belt and holster size is crucial for secure performance. If you plan to use a 1 ½” belt, for example, make sure to pair it with a 1 ½” clip or loop holster.
Using a larger holster clip on a smaller belt will lead to poor performance, or worse, pull the entire holster off with the firearm in a critical moment.
For added comfort, look for an EDC belt with elastic or Velcro that fits snugly around your waist and pairs well with activewear like yoga pants, gym shorts, or running gear.
And if your workout gear lacks belt loops, wearing the belt around your bare waist under your clothes can still provide support without sacrificing concealment or stability.
Choosing a Holster for Activewear
When selecting a holster to pair with activewear, prioritize options that offer a snug fit, easy access, and secure retention.
Comfort and Fit
Testing the comfort and fit of a holster with activewear involves more than just putting it on and looking in the mirror. You need to actually move.
Try different positions: sit, stand, jog, and stretch. If your holster pinches, digs, or causes discomfort, you will need to either make further adjustments to your setup or try a different holster.
Additionally, look for holsters made from breathable, soft materials that mold to your body without irritating your skin.
Retention and Security
A holster that can’t keep your firearm secure during movement is a deal-breaker. Whether running or doing yoga, you need a holster that offers excellent retention.
Different holsters provide varying levels of security, so always test your holster during activities similar to your workout routine to check that it stays in place and securely holds your firearm.
Read Your Definitive Guide to Holster Retention for a deeper dive.
Accessibility
Quick access to your firearm is the difference between safety and danger in an emergency. That said, accessibility shouldn’t compromise discretion.
When choosing a holster, look for designs that allow you to draw your firearm swiftly and efficiently while keeping it concealed during your workout.
The Best Holsters for Concealed Carry in Activewear
Different holster styles offer various benefits depending on your activity level and clothing preferences.
IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) Holsters
IWB holsters are worn inside the waistband to provide a close fit to the body for maximum concealment. Because of their discreet nature, these holsters are popular for everyday concealed carry.
- Pros: It’s excellent for deep concealment and provides minimal printing, even with tighter clothing. It also provides a secure fit that hugs the body and offers a wide variety of carry positions (appendix, side, or back).
- Cons: It requires structured clothing like pants or shorts with a sturdy waistband and belt loops or an EDC belt for retention and support. It may not be ideal for high-intensity workouts or activities involving constant bending and twisting.
Best uses: IWB holsters are best suited for light physical activity like walking or hiking, and situations where discretion is a priority.
Check it out: For the perfect combination of security and comfort, GunfightersINC offers two standout IWB holsters.
- The Wraith IWB provides a sleek design and solid retention for deep concealment.
- The Solace Hybrid IWB offers extra comfort with a leather backing.
These two IWB options are great for carrying in a variety of positions so you stay comfortable even during active use.
OWB (Outside-the-Waistband) Holsters
OWB holsters are worn outside the waistband, making them easier to access and more comfortable for carrying larger firearms.
- Pros: It’s more comfortable for extended wear and, because of its position, provides easier and quicker access to your firearm.
- Cons: It’s harder to conceal, especially in warmer weather or with minimal clothing. It typically requires a belt and structured clothing to stay secure.
Best uses: OWB holsters are perfect for outdoor activities where layered clothing is typical, such as hiking, mountain biking, or cold-weather excursions.
Check it out: GunfightersINC’s Ronin OWB Concealment Holster is an excellent option for those seeking comfort and accessibility.
This holster is designed for durability and quick access, making it perfect for outdoor activities where you need to draw easily but maintain security.
For more on OWB holsters, read Ronin vs. Sentinel vs. OWB Holsters and What to Look For in a Concealable OWB Holster.
Belly Band Holsters
Belly band holsters wrap securely around your waist for flexibility and comfort. These come in various sizes and are adjustable to fit your body, no matter what you wear.
- Pros: Because belly band holsters don’t require belt loops, it’s perfect for activewear like leggings, yoga pants, or gym shorts.
- Cons: It can become uncomfortable during extended wear, especially in hot or humid conditions. Belly bands are also limited in accessibility and may shift or roll during more intense physical activities.
Best uses: Belly band holsters are ideal for light activities like walking, yoga, or casual workouts, where flexibility and comfort are needed without relying on structured activewear.
Compression Holsters
Compression holsters are built directly into the athletic wear, like shorts or leggings. This means you can carry without the added bulk of an external holster.
- Pros: Since it’s integrated into your clothing, these holsters offer a snug, discreet fit.
- Cons: These holsters are difficult to draw your firearm from quickly, lack retention features, and are only available in specific clothing styles.
Best uses: Compression holsters are perfect for low-impact activities like yoga, Pilates, or walking, where a snug fit is needed.
Clip-On Holsters
Lightweight and designed with secure clips, these holsters attach directly to the waistband of your gym shorts or leggings to provide easy access while remaining stable.
- Pros: Perfect for light workouts or daily walks, these offer quick access to your firearm without interfering with your movements.
- Cons: Stability can be an issue since it relies on the strength of the waistband. These are not ideal for high-intensity workouts because the waistband can shift or loosen during movement.
Best uses: Clip-on holsters are best for activities like walking or light jogging.
Alternative Option: Chest Holsters
For those who prefer to keep their waistband free or engage in more strenuous outdoor activities, a chest holster offers a versatile, comfortable alternative for concealed carry.
- Pros: It keeps your firearm secure and easily accessible without interfering with your waistline or movement. It’s comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the harness that distributes weight across your shoulders and back.
- Cons: Keeping it concealed requires layering and careful selection of your workout gear.
Best uses: A chest holster is perfect for outdoor adventures such as hiking, hunting, or biking, where freedom of movement and accessibility are key.
Check it out: The Kenai Chest Holster offers unmatched comfort and security for high-energy outdoor activities. Its design keeps your firearm easily accessible while allowing you to move freely and stay active.
Read the following guides for more information:
- Choosing the Best Gun Holster for Running
- Concealed Carry While Cycling
- Why I Never Mountain Bike Without a Gun Holster
Practice Makes Perfect
Carrying a firearm while staying active requires more than just picking the right holster – you need to practice using it in real-life scenarios.
Movement Testing
Before heading out for a run or hitting the gym, take time to test your holster with a variety of movements.
Try jogging, bending, stretching, or doing squats to check that your holster stays secure and comfortable through different motions. This helps you identify areas where adjustments are needed, such as tightening your belt, repositioning your holster, or trying a different carry position.
Know Your Holster
Each holster type has unique retention and draw mechanics, and understanding these is critical for quick, safe access.
Spend time practicing your draw in standing and seated positions to build muscle memory and verify you can retrieve your firearm quickly if necessary. For example, if you’re wearing a belly band or a compression holster, the snug fit may require a different draw technique than an IWB or OWB holster.
Stay active, stay safe, and carry with confidence.
With the variety of holster options available, you can find a solution that suits your lifestyle without compromising safety or comfort. Whether walking, jogging, or tackling a more intense workout, the right holster will make sure your concealed carry remains secure and discreet.
Explore GunfightersINC’s collection of holsters to find your perfect match today.