Using your clothing choices for concealed carry requires some experimentation and practice. Some fabric types, such as poplin or other stiff kinds of cotton, work well because they have a structure that is less likely to settle into the lines of the gun and holster.
Cover Garments
One of the biggest facets of concealed carry is selecting concealment clothing for travel that looks great. Depending on the type of carry and where you plan to travel, this will require some thought.
For instance, a sweater or cardigan can be a practical cover garment for IWB holsters, but they must be roomy enough to prevent passersby from noticing your firearm at first glance. The fabric should also not be too susceptible to weather changes like a breeze or wind, which could blow the garment open and expose your weapon. Posture and tucking can also play a role in printing, so it’s essential to experiment with various attire options and practice clearing your garment. For example, some readers recommend wearing your jacket buttoned but leaving the bottom-most button undone to create a bit of slack in the shirt, making it easier to clear.
Tie-Front/Knot-Front Shirts
If you’re a concealed carry newbie, having a few go-to outfits to get you started can be a lifesaver. These are clothes that you know work with your gun, have minimal printing, and you can throw on and run out the door. A tie-front or knot-front shirt is one of the best clothing items in your closet. They’re super stylish, pack up easily, and don’t wrinkle. They’re perfect for hot weather and can be worn with a sarong or shorts. If you’re wearing a buttoned-up, untucked shirt as your cover garment, there are a few techniques to clearing your cover, including hooking under the placket with your shooting hand thumb.
Shorts
Some of the best travel shorts for concealed carry are made with easy-to-wash and dry fabric. This allows you to wear them multiple times before finding a laundromat. Another feature to look for in travel shorts is stain and odor resistance. This lets you go longer between washings, which makes them perfect for a trip where you’ll be staying at hostels or other low-budget travel accommodations where laundry services aren’t as readily available. For ladies, try to avoid tighter fabrics that cling to the body. These can hide the outline of a hidden firearm or holster, making it harder to get a smooth grip.
Pants
Men who regularly or occasionally wear formal and business clothes and travel for work or leisure face the issue of wearing holster-forgiving clothing. Fortunately, a few men’s brands have developed specialized travel pants to address this need.
A key feature in travel pants is a bit of stretch in the fabric. This adds flexibility, gives for comfortable movement, and also helps to minimize printing. Another key feature is a drawstring waist. This removes the need for a belt, which can be an advantage at border crossings. Some travel pants also include hidden passports or money pockets. This can be more comfortable than a money belt, but it does require some training and practice to use effectively.
Dresses
A traveling dress is ideal for women who need help wearing pants on a trip or have an issue with wearing them in conjunction with their concealment gear. You’ll want to look for breathable and durable fabrics, just like with pants.
The added structure to the fabric helps blur the hard lines that sometimes appear when carrying a firearm in specific garments. Read more exciting articles on Tech new master
