Best Holster Wedge Buyer’s Guide 2025

If you’ve ever tried to carry a concealed firearm, you know the two biggest challenges: comfort and concealment. You might find your hard Kydex holster digging into your body, creating painful hotspots. Or you might feel self-conscious, constantly checking your shirt to see if the grip of your firearm is “printing.” It’s frustrating, and it’s the reason many people give up on carrying altogether.

But what if there was a simple, affordable accessory that could solve both problems at once?

There is. It’s called a holster wedge—more specifically, the Cloudster Pillow—and it’s the single most important upgrade you can make to your everyday carry (EDC) setup. Modern holster wedges dramatically improve concealment, eliminate pressure points, and create a more stable, repeatable platform for your firearm.

For new concealed carriers who want to understand foundational skills, this concealed carry fundamentals guide provides helpful background that pairs well with proper wedge setup.

But with so many options popping up, how do you know which one to choose? This guide breaks down exactly what to look for so you can confidently select the best holster wedge for your needs.

What is a Holster Wedge and Why Do You Need One?

A holster wedge attaches to the body-side of your holster, usually near the muzzle, and performs two essential functions:

• Improve Concealment: By pushing the bottom of your holster outward, the wedge forces the grip inward — dramatically reducing printing.
• Increase Comfort: It fills the natural gap between your body and holster, distributing pressure and preventing painful hotspots.

Wedges are especially popular for AIWB (appendix) carry but are also highly effective for strong-side IWB setups.

To learn how wedges interact with other gear, read our guide on creating a balanced rig: Holster Wedge + Mag Carrier Setup Guide.

When evaluating different options, the most reliable approach is choosing the best holster wedge built with high-quality materials and ergonomic shaping. A poorly made wedge may offer temporary relief, but only a premium design like the Cloudster Pillow provides long-term comfort and truly effective concealment.

Many concealed carriers eventually realize that the best holster wedge is the one that blends cushioning, stability, and adjustability. These three factors work together to create a balanced foundation—helping your holster sit correctly, tuck consistently, and avoid digging into sensitive areas.

1. The Material: The Foundation of Comfort

The most important factor in any wedge is the material. This determines comfort, durability, and hygiene.

The Old Way (Foam): Cheap closed-cell foam traps heat, absorbs sweat, becomes smelly, and collapses quickly.

The New Way (Gel Pillow): A gel-infused memory foam pillow—like the Cloudster Pillow—conforms to your body, stays cool, and maintains its shape long-term. Paired with a removable bamboo cover, it stays hygienic and comfortable.

When comparing options, it becomes clear that the best holster wedge always features breathable, washable materials. This prevents odor buildup, eliminates irritation, and ensures your wedge performs just as well after twelve months as it did on day one.

2. Adjustability: The Secret to a Perfect Fit

Your body, firearm, and carry position are unique—which is why adjustability matters.

The Problem with Fixed-Size Kits: Multiple foam blocks in “small, medium, large” don’t offer true precision.

The Cloudster Solution: A pillow-style wedge with a zipper allows you to fine-tune your fill level—add or remove stuffing until your holster fits your body perfectly.

A major reason the Cloudster Pillow is considered the best holster wedge is its micro-adjustability. The ability to fine-tune your angle and thickness ensures you get the exact level of tuck and comfort your body demands.

3. Shape and Profile: The Science of Concealment

A block of foam isn’t designed for the human body. The shape of your wedge determines how well it tucks and how comfortable it feels.

For AIWB: A rounded or teardrop profile prevents digging into the groin and hip flexor.

For Strong-Side: A flatter profile stabilizes concealment and reduces holster shift.

Carriers trying different wedge shapes quickly learn that the best holster wedge isn’t a one-size block — it’s an ergonomic, contoured pillow that fits the natural curves of the body, especially during sitting, bending, or driving.

For additional technique insights, this holster setup advice pairs well with Cloudster comfort strategies.

Having comfort issues? Read our ergonomic breakdown: Avoiding AIWB Pain With the Right Wedge.

4. Durability and Longevity

A wedge is only useful if it lasts. Foam wedges collapse and lose shape quickly, ruining your setup.

The Cloudster Pillow, built with dense gel memory foam and a premium bamboo cover, maintains its shape and cushioning for years of daily wear.

If long-term reliability is important to you, choosing the best holster wedge means choosing one made with premium materials that resist compression over thousands of hours of wear.

5. Hygiene and Maintenance

Foam soaks up sweat and bacteria. You cannot wash it, and wiping it off doesn’t help.

A washable cover is essential—another reason pillow-style wedges outperform basic foam blocks.

Cleanability + durability = long-term comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does a holster wedge do? It adds cushioning and tucks the grip inward to improve comfort and concealment.

Where do I place it? On the body-side of the holster, usually at the muzzle end.

Will it work with my holster? Yes — wedges work with nearly all Kydex, hybrid, and leather holsters.

Is a pillow better than foam? Absolutely. Pillow wedges are cooler, softer, adjustable, and washable.

Will it work for my body type? Yes — wedges improve concealment and comfort for slim, average, and larger carriers.

Want seasonal setup tips? Read our winter carry guide: Adjusting Your Wedge for Winter Clothing.