Winter is Coming: Adjusting Your AIWB Wedge for Layered Clothing

For experienced concealed carriers, fall brings a wave of relief—flannels, hoodies, and jackets make concealment effortless. But as temperatures drop, that same setup can introduce unexpected discomfort. The AIWB wedge that worked perfectly in July may now feel too aggressive in November. This guide shows how to fine-tune your Cloudster Pillow for the colder months without sacrificing concealment or quick access.

The Winter Carry Paradox: More Layers, More Pressure

As the season changes, two factors combine to upset your comfortable summer setup:

• 1. Concealment Needs Have Changed: In summer, your wedge does most of the work to tuck the grip beneath thin clothing. In winter, thicker layers handle much of the concealment—so less wedge leverage is needed.
• 2. Pressure on the Holster Has Increased: Heavy clothing, snug belts, and zipped jackets all push your holster harder into your body. The once-perfect summer leverage can now cause painful hotspots.

The Art of Adjustment: Tuning Your Cloudster Pillow for Winter

Strategy 1: Master Vertical Placement (The “Leverage Dial”)

Your wedge position controls how much “tuck” your holster applies.

• Summer Setting (Lower Placement): The wedge sits lower on the holster, maximizing leverage for aggressive grip tuck—ideal for light clothing.
• Winter Setting (Higher Placement): Move your Cloudster Pillow higher, closer to the beltline. This reduces tuck, while relieving pressure from the groin and thigh area—perfect for thick winter layers.

Strategy 2: Trust the Materials (The Cloudster Advantage)

Rigid foam wedges press harder as you tighten your belt and layer up. The gel-infused memory foam in the Cloudster Pillow, however, flexes and redistributes pressure. It adapts naturally to your body and seasonal clothing without losing concealment. That’s what makes it the best IWB holster pillow for all-season carry.

Don’t Forget Your Draw Stroke: Adapting to Bulk

A comfortable setup is only half the equation. Practice your draw with the actual hoodies, flannels, and jackets you’ll wear in winter. Clearing multiple layers requires new muscle memory. Your wedge ensures the grip stays consistently positioned against your body—providing a reliable index point under stress.

For more training tips, check out Designing a Professional Dry-Fire Routine at Home.

The Cloudster Pillow: Your All-Season Carry Solution

The Cloudster Pillow is designed as a “four-season” solution—no need for different wedges throughout the year.

• Infinite Adjustability: The hook-and-loop system allows precise micro-adjustments for every season.
• Superior Materials: Gel memory foam cushions against extra winter pressure while maintaining year-round durability.

FAQs

1) My hoodie hides my firearm perfectly. Do I still need a wedge?
Yes. While concealment is easier, your AIWB wedge also stabilizes the holster and ensures a consistent draw under layers.

2) I wear an undershirt—does it change anything?
An undershirt adds comfort but doesn’t change wedge physics. It simply provides a smoother surface between the holster and skin.

3) How can I make the Cloudster Pillow less aggressive for winter?
Raise the pillow higher on the holster (closer to your beltline). This reduces leverage and tuck, balancing concealment with comfort.

4) I carry a larger firearm in winter. Will one pillow still work?
Yes. For heavier guns, keep the wedge slightly lower for added leverage and weight distribution. The Cloudster’s foam adapts to pressure changes automatically.

5) Does my coat type affect my setup?
Absolutely. Thick, rigid jackets apply more downward pressure than flexible fabrics. Always test your holster with the actual outerwear you plan to use.

Further Reading

• Concealed Carry for Big Guys — overcome the “shelf effect.”
• Avoiding AIWB Pain: The Ergonomic Guide
• USCCA: Winter Concealed Carry Tips