Concealed Carry for Every Body Type

Concealed carry isn’t just about picking a holster and hoping it works. Your body shape, daily routine, and clothing all play a role in what feels right and what actually works. That’s why finding the most comfortable concealed carry position isn’t about following a rulebook. It’s about figuring out what fits you.

How Body Shape Affects Concealment

Body shape plays a big role in what feels comfortable, conceals well, and stays secure throughout the day. What works for one person might be a constant struggle for another. 

Here’s how different body types affect your carry position and what to try instead.

Short Torso vs. Long Torso

If you have a short torso, you’ve got less vertical space between your waistband and ribcage. That makes a traditional strong-side or appendix carry tricky. There’s just not much room for the grip to sit without poking into your ribs or printing through your shirt. 

You might prefer:

• High-riding holsters that keep the gun closer to your centerline.
• Angled holsters (with adjustable cant) to reduce digging and discomfort.
• Off-body carry like a backpack or fanny pack for long days out.

To learn more about off-body carry, read The New Old-Fashioned Way to Conceal Carry: The Fanny Pack.

On the flip side, a long torso usually means more options. You’ll have extra space to position the holster without it bumping into your ribs or pressing against your hip bone. 

Just make sure the holster height lines up with your natural draw stroke. You don’t want to reach too high or too low in a hurry.

Curvy Hips, Large Chest, or a Belly

Curves add complexity to concealed carry, but also open up new options.

If you have curvy hips, strong-side carry can push the grip out at an angle, which leads to printing or even the holster shifting while you move. In this case:

• Appendix carry might sit flatter against your body.
• Shoulder holsters or belly bands can also be more comfortable and stable.

A larger chest can make it harder to conceal in the front. Drawing from an appendix position may feel awkward or restricted. You might prefer:

• Underarm shoulder holsters paired with a structured outer layer.
• Off-body carry like a fanny pack or cross-body bag.

Read Concealed Carry for Women: How to Stay Armed, Stylish, and Comfortable for more ideas.

Carrying with a belly often means that appendix carry doesn’t work well. The gun may push outward or dig in while sitting. Try:

• Strong-side or behind-the-hip positions (3:30 to 4:00) with a forward cant.
• Backpack concealed carry options if you’re on the go and don’t want waistband pressure.

For a deeper dive, check out Concealed Carry for Big Guys.

Slim Builds and Printing

If you’re slim, you’ve probably struggled with printing (when the shape of your gun shows through your clothes). With less natural padding, even compact firearms can be obvious under light or fitted clothing.

Here’s what helps:

• Holsters with slim profiles and claw attachments to tuck the grip closer to your body.
• Appendix carry will work well with a foam wedge for added concealment.
• Layering (wearing a loose button-down, hoodie, or light jacket) makes a big difference.

Start with what feels natural when you move, sit, and stand. Then, fine-tune your holster, angle, and placement until they work for your body and routine.

Core Concealed Carry Positions and What They Offer

There are several ways to carry concealed, but the right setup depends on your body type, lifestyle, and how you dress. Below, we break down the most common concealed carry positions.

1. Appendix Carry (AIWB – Appendix Inside the Waistband)

This is one of the most popular options right now and for good reason. Appendix carry sits the holster just in front of your hip, around the 1 o’clock position. It’s great for deep concealment under a loose shirt or hoodie, but you’ll want a holster with a claw or wedge to minimize printing.

• Best for: Slim to average builds
• Pros: Fast draw, easy to access even when seated, very secure
• Cons: Can feel uncomfortable when sitting for long periods, especially with larger handguns

Bonus Tip: Works best with low-profile EDC belts that offer solid support without bulk.

2. Strong-Side Hip Carry (3–5 o’clock)

This is the go-to position for many everyday carriers. Whether you carry at 3:00 or shift it back slightly to 4:30, this position offers flexibility and comfort, especially for people on their feet most of the day.

• Best for: Most body types
• Pros: Feels natural, good balance of concealment and comfort, familiar draw motion
• Cons: May print with tight clothing or certain holster setups

3. Shoulder Holster Concealed Carry

This setup shines in colder months or when wearing a jacket is part of your daily routine. If your body shape makes waist carry uncomfortable, shoulder holster concealed carry is a solid alternative.

• Best for: Layered clothing, broader chests, or those with limited waist space
• Pros: Keeps the gun off your waistband, great for seated access
• Cons: Not ideal for summer or light clothing, requires a cover garment

4. Off-Body Carry

Off-body carry in a pack or bag designed for quick access. This method only works if your gear is dialed in. Look for backpacks, purses, cross-body bags, or fanny packs with hidden compartments or use Velcro holster inserts to keep things secure.

• Best for: Any body type, especially those who can’t carry on-body due to clothing or other restrictions
• Pros: Flexible, discreet, keeps gun off your waist entirely
• Cons: Slower access, you need to keep your bag close at all times

Holsters and Belts That Make a Difference

No matter your body type or preferred carry position, the gear you use matters – a lot. The right holster and EDC belt will mean the difference between carrying comfortably all day or constantly adjusting your gear (or leaving it at home altogether).

Holsters: Fit, Flexibility, and Function

Not all holsters work for all people. To get a comfortable and secure fit, pay attention to these features:

1. Adjustable cant – Lets you tilt the holster forward or back. This makes a big difference depending on your body shape and carry position. A forward cant, for example, helps reduce printing when carrying at the 4 o’clock position.
2. Ride height – This controls how high or low the gun sits in relation to your waistband. Lower ride height is better for deep concealment, while a slightly higher ride can improve draw speed. Adjustable options let you find the right balance.
3. Retention – Good holsters hold your firearm securely without slowing you down. Look for adjustable retention screws or passive retention designs that “click” the gun into place without needing a thumb break or snap.

These features help make a holster more adaptable. So, whether carrying appendix, strong-side, or off-body, you can fine-tune your setup to match your body and movement.

For a deeper dive, read Your Complete Guide to Concealed Carry – Shooting Skills, Gear, and More. 

Your EDC Belt Matters

It won’t cut if you’re still using a regular leather or department store belt.

Your holster is only as stable as the belt it’s clipped to. A rigid, purpose-built EDC belt provides consistent tension, keeps your holster in place, and supports the weight of your firearm without sagging or shifting.

Blue Alpha’s EDC Belts

At Blue Alpha, we make EDC belts built for strength, stiffness, comfort, and concealment. Here’s a quick look at our lineup:

Low-Profile EDC Belts

A clean design that’s ideal for everyday wear. Stiff enough to support a firearm, but minimalistic enough to stay under the radar.

Hybrid EDC Belts

Combines a sturdy webbing body with a slim metal buckle for easier threading and all-day comfort. These work well for any IWB position and support smaller and full-size pistols.

Concealment Clothing and Gear Tips

Even the best holster and belt combo can only do so much if your clothing doesn’t work with it. 

Fit and Layering Matter

Start with your shirt. If it’s too tight, it’ll print. If it’s too loose, you may struggle with snagging or getting a clean draw. Look for a middle ground:

• Slightly looser shirts made from thicker or textured fabric help break up outlines.
• Button-downs, flannels, or hoodies work well for appendix or strong-side carry.
• Avoid lightweight athletic shirts unless you’re wearing something over them. They tend to cling and reveal more than you want.

Base Layers That Help

Wearing the right underlayer will improve both comfort and concealment. These three options are simple but effective:

• Undershirts create a barrier between your skin and holster to reduce rubbing and sweat.
• Compression tanks help stabilize the holster and reduce printing, especially with appendix carry.
• Longer hems on base layers prevent your shirt from riding up and exposing your firearm when you move or bend.

These layers are especially helpful if you carry daily and don’t want to adjust your setup whenever you change clothes.

Outer Layers That Work with Your Setup

Your jacket matters if you’re using a shoulder holster.

• Structured jackets (like denim, softshells, or lined flannels) give you enough coverage to keep gear hidden.
• Zippered or snap fronts allow for fast access without fumbling.
• Roomy armholes and relaxed fits make drawing from under your arm easier.
• Avoid tight or tailored jackets if you carry in these positions. These limit your reach or make printing worse.

Check out our following guides to help more with concealed carry clothing:

Why an EDC Belt is Essential for Concealed Carry

Comfortable EDC for All-Day Wear

Winter EDC: How to Adapt for the Cold

Mastering Summer EDC and Concealed Carry

Tips for Testing and Adjusting Your Setup

Finding the best position for concealed carry isn’t something you nail on day one. It takes trial, error, and a little bit of patience. 

Try Different Setups At Home First

Before heading out in public, test your holster, belt, and carry position in a safe, controlled setting:

• Walk around your home, sit in a chair, crouch, bend, and move naturally.
• Wear your usual clothes to see how well everything stays hidden.
• Carry for a few hours to check for pressure points or shifting.

This helps you catch issues early, before they become a problem in daily life.

Use Mirrors, Cameras, and Test Draws

• Check for printing in the mirror from the front, side, and back.
• Record a video of yourself moving around to spot anything you missed.
• Practice drawing (with an unloaded firearm or training replica) to make sure your setup allows for a smooth, safe draw.

Comfort > Rules

You’ll hear a lot of opinions on what the “right” way to carry is. But here’s the truth:

• The most comfortable concealed carry position is the one you’ll actually use.
• If something feels off, tweak it – adjust the cant, move the holster slightly, or swap belts.
• As your body changes or your routine shifts, be open to changing your setup too.

Your Comfort. Your Setup. Your Safety.

As you explore different holsters, belts, and clothing options, remember: it’s okay to adapt, adjust, and change things. That’s how you find what really works.

And if you’re ready to upgrade your gear, shop Blue Alpha’s EDC belts – built for lasting support, no matter how or where you carry.

Check out Concealed Carry: Everything You Need to Know Before You Start for more help.