Thigh holsters, also known as drop leg holsters, are one of the most efficient methods of carrying a firearm for both men and women. For women, in particular, a thigh holster can be secure and comfortable, especially when wearing short skirts and dresses.
What Is a Thigh Holster?
A drop leg holster sits high on your thigh and is secured by straps and, sometimes, belt loops. This option is a popular choice for women who want either concealed or open carry. For dresses or skirts, this option is the best.
Overall, thigh holsters can allow you to explore different facets of your style, not restrict it. If you do not want to leave your gun in your purse and want to carry it on your body, a thigh holster can work.
They are comfortable, secure, versatile, and provide a quick draw time, but they also have a few quirks to consider.
Pros
Thigh holsters offer the modern woman plenty of benefits, including:
- More natural positioning of the handgun compared to hip holsters that are higher up and require a slight bend of the elbow to draw your weapon
- Better weight distribution with a thigh holster compared to a hip holster that carries the weight around the belt, leading to back or hip strain
- Can free up more space around the waist if needed for additional ammunition
- Can provide a better draw from the seated position
- Can provide a smoother draw for women with longer arms
- Does not require a belt
- Can be worn with a short or long dresses or skirts
Cons
While this one of the best holsters for women, they do have a few disadvantages.
- Limit access to front pocket requiring carrying your gear on the other front pocket, if you have any
- May have a tactical disadvantage by holstering the firearm further away from the body than with hip holsters, making it easier for others to take from you
- Can be uncomfortable if not properly fitted
- If set up improperly, the thigh holster can rotate around the thigh during strenuous activities
- Can be visible with really short skirts or dresses
Factors to Consider When Looking For a Women’s Thigh Holster
Looking for the right women’s thigh holster for concealed or open carry?
A proper fitting thigh holster molds to your gun and is durable and comfortable against the thigh. The elastic straps should sit smoothly and securely against your thigh. In some cases, a nylon web belt loop is included to secure onto a belt.
Here are a few factors to consider, besides the price, color, and style, to help you find the right fit for you:
Concealment
How well does your holster work for concealed carry? Is it too bulky and unable to hide well under your skirt or dress? If you are considering concealed carry, a thigh holster can work but requires positioning the gun just right and using a dress or skirt that completely covers it.
Function and Comfort
Look for an adjustable option that can conform to your thigh shape and size. Keeping it secure to your waist and in a good position can improve your drawing technique and make for easy reach when needed. Models with a harness system can improve weight distribution for better comfort.
Security
How well does your holster hold up with your lifestyle? Does it offer enough support? Does it stay on after hiking all day? Does it remain secure while sitting for several hours a day? Rubberized straps can reduce slippage even when exposed to moisture.
Gun Type
Thigh holsters are generally designed for smaller handguns such as small semi-automatic pistols and small-frame revolvers. Check to see if the holster manufacturer makes a model for your gun’s make and model.
Customer Reviews
Read the customer reviews to see how well the holster has worked for others and your similar situation or gun. What do other women think of their product after heavy use? Amazon, in particular, usually has tons of product reviews you can check out.
Are Thigh Holsters Good For Concealed Carry?
Absolutely! While drop-leg holsters are better for open carry, holsters and guns with a slimmer profile can comfortably and securely hold your gun while providing high retention for concealed carry. Drop leg holsters are preferred for open carry since they can free up space around your belt. Plus, they are clearly visible and displayed for better access.
How to Set Up a Women’s Thigh Holster
When setting up your thigh holster, you need to ensure you have quick access to your firearm. Unlike hip holsters which are attached to the belt, a drop leg holster is supported by straps and, sometimes, belt loops, if they have any.
Secure the holster to the leg and draw the side straps in tight. We recommend having the straps tight enough to keep the holster secured but not tight enough to cause discomfort. If it has them, fasten the belt loops by pulling them up and over your belt. Then, holster your pistol.
The pistol should be secured high up enough to not require any hinging of the waist. You should not be reaching down too far but instead, have a slight bend in the elbow when drawing your weapon.
We recommend wearing the thigh holster for several hours or a full day to get used to the look and feel before adding your pistol to the mix. It can take some trial and error to determine the best location for the holster on your thigh that will not cause chafing.
Depending on your apparel, you may be able to position the holster on the inside of your leg if you are wearing a tight skirt. If you have a larger skirt, the holster and gun can rest outside on the leg for slightly better comfort.
Wear the holster with an unloaded firearm to get the hang of moving around at home or out and about. Do you find you are knocking into things? This can help you determine the best position for your firearm. How does it feel when you are crossing your legs? Does the holster become visible when you sit and the skirt rides up?
Practice drawing with a firearm with your chosen apparel. Get used to moving the skirt or dress out of the way to get a firm grip on your gun. Practicing using your weapon with a thigh holster can prepare you for the real thing.
Shop GunfightersINC for Concealed and Open Carry Holsters
When one holster is not enough, a holster selection keeps you prepared for any occasion.
GunfightersINC has got you covered with our American-made shoulder, chest, OWB, and IWB holsters made with a blend of Kydex, leather, and nylon. You get high retention and superior comfort for everyday carry.
Our Micro Aggression Thigh Panel + Ronin OWB holster provides you with an alternative to the traditional drop leg holster. Riding higher than a thigh holster, the panel and OWB combo keep your firearm just below your hip.
Shop our industry-leading selection of molds to complement your firearm.
December 9, 2022