When you’ve been carrying for a while, you quickly learn that changing seasons means changing how you carry your concealed weapon. Weather affects how you dress, and that directly impacts your carrying method. Here are some tips and personal insights on adjusting your concealed carry setup for different weather conditions.
Spring: The Transition Phase
Spring is unpredictable. One day it's warm, the next it’s chilly. Layering is key. I usually switch to a lighter, more breathable holster during this time. An inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster works well under a light jacket or hoodie.
Spring also means rain. Make sure your firearm and holster can handle moisture. I prefer synthetic materials over leather during wet months. They dry faster and are less likely to get damaged. For instance, nylon or Kydex holsters are great because they resist water better than leather.
Summer: Keeping Cool and Concealed
Summer is all about staying cool while staying concealed. This can be tough with lighter clothing. I switch to a smaller, more compact firearm in the summer. My go-to is a .380 ACP or a slim 9mm. They’re easier to hide under a t-shirt or polo.
A quality Kydex holster is perfect for summer. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and doesn’t absorb sweat like leather. Leather holsters can get sticky and uncomfortable in the heat, whereas Kydex stays dry and maintains its shape. Also, a good hybrid holster, which combines Kydex with a soft backer like neoprene, can offer comfort against your skin while keeping your firearm secure.
Fall: Flexibility is Key
Fall is probably my favorite season for concealed carry. The weather is cooler, and you can layer up without overheating. This means you can carry a larger firearm more comfortably. I usually go back to my compact 9mm or even a .45 ACP during this season.
A good IWB or OWB holster works well in the fall. I also like to carry an extra magazine or two, which is easier to hide under a jacket or vest. Leather holsters come back into play here. They mold to your body and can be very comfortable as the weather cools down. However, a hybrid holster also works well, giving you the best of both worlds - comfort and stability.
Winter: Bulk Up, But Stay Smart
Winter might seem like the easiest season for concealed carry because you can wear bulky clothing. However, it comes with its own set of challenges. Drawing from under multiple layers can be slow. I prefer a shoulder holster or a chest rig during the winter. It keeps the firearm accessible while you’re bundled up.
Cold weather can affect your hands. If you wear gloves, practice drawing and firing with them on. Also, be aware that your clothing might snag on your firearm when drawing. For winter, leather holsters can provide an extra layer of insulation against the cold. They’re also generally more comfortable when worn over heavier clothing. However, ensure that your holster remains rigid and doesn’t collapse when the gun is drawn, which is a strength of Kydex.
Clothing Choices and Concealment
No matter the season, the clothes you wear play a huge role in how effectively you can conceal your firearm. In colder months, bulky clothes help, but in summer, you need to be more strategic. Loose-fitting clothing can help hide the outline of your gun. Darker colors and patterns also minimize printing.
Holster Materials and Types
When it’s wet, synthetic materials are the way to go. Nylon and Kydex holsters resist water and dry quickly, making them ideal for rainy spring days. For summer, breathable materials like Kydex are perfect because they don’t trap heat. If you’re sweating, the last thing you want is a holster that soaks up moisture and sticks to your skin.
In winter, leather holsters can be a good choice. They provide a bit more insulation and can be very comfortable when worn over multiple layers of clothing. Leather also has a way of molding to your body over time, creating a custom fit that can be quite comfortable.
A hybrid holster can be a great all-around choice. These combine a rigid Kydex shell with a soft backing made from materials like leather or neoprene. The Kydex keeps your firearm secure and makes re-holstering easy, while the backing offers comfort against your body.
Ammunition Considerations
Extreme temperatures can mess with your ammunition. Hot weather can increase the pressure inside your ammo, and cold weather can decrease it. Always store your ammo properly and keep these factors in mind when you’re out and about.
Training and Practice
Regular training and practice are crucial, no matter the season. Practice drawing from concealment with different clothing layers to become more proficient. Don’t forget to practice with any seasonal gear changes, like gloves in winter.
Parting Thoughts
Adapting your concealed carry setup to the seasons isn’t just about comfort - it’s about safety and effectiveness. Each season has its own challenges, but with some planning and the right gear, you can carry confidently year-round.
Stay safe out there, and remember: practice, practice, practice. The more familiar you are with your gear and how to adapt it, the better prepared you’ll be, no matter the weather.
Happy carrying!
Author bio:
Sam Jacobs is a passionate advocate for Second Amendment rights and an avid historian. As lead writer for Ammo.com, he delves into the intersection of firearms, freedom, and corporate power. With a penchant for defending individual liberties, his work sparks discussions in various publications and
