AIWB, Appendix Carry, Holsters and Gear Recommendations, IWB Holster Wedge

Cloudster Pillow vs Mastermind Tactics Pillow: Comfort & Concealment Showdown

Posted on by cloudster
Cloudster Pillow vs Mastermind Tactics Pillow

When it comes to concealed carry, comfort and concealment are everything. For many carriers, adding a holster pillow wedge makes the difference between leaving the gun at home and carrying every day with confidence. Two big names stand out in this space: the Cloudster Pillow and the Mastermind Tactics Pillow.

Both aim to solve the same problem—discomfort and printing—but they take very different approaches. In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down design, comfort, concealment, and overall value. By the end, you’ll know which is the best IWB holster wedge to trust with your daily carry.

Why Holster Wedges Matter in Concealed Carry

If you’ve ever carried inside-the-waistband (IWB) or appendix (AIWB), you know the struggle:

  • The hard edges of your holster dig into your body when sitting, bending, or driving.

  • The grip of the gun angles outward, causing unwanted printing under clothes.

A holster pillow wedge solves both problems by placing a padded layer between your body and the holster. This cushion distributes pressure for comfort and tucks the grip inward for better concealment.

Both the Cloudster Pillow and the Mastermind Tactics Pillow are designed to do just that—but which does it better?

Cloudster Pillow: A Comfort-First Approach

Created by a family-owned U.S. business, the Cloudster Pillow was designed to make carrying so comfortable you’ll actually do it.

Key Features:

  • Shredded cooling gel memory foam for softness, airflow, and long-lasting support.

  • Premium covers in bamboo white, camo cotton, or poly-twill dark.

  • Three sizes: Mini, Standard, Deluxe.

  • Adjustable fill – add or remove foam to customize thickness.

  • Easy Velcro backing, compatible with virtually any holster.

This isn’t just padding—it’s a customizable comfort system.

Mastermind Tactics Pillow: Minimalist Utility

The Mastermind Tactics Pillow wedge has long been a go-to option for shooters wanting a simple, affordable wedge.

Key Features:

  • Closed-cell foam construction.

  • Fixed shape and one size only.

  • Velcro attachment for most holsters.

  • Lightweight, low-profile design.

It’s functional but takes a one-size-fits-all approach.

Comfort Comparison: Cloudster Pillow vs Mastermind Tactics Pillow

Cloudster Pillow Comfort
Cooling gel memory foam molds to your body, distributing pressure evenly. Carriers report it feels more like a cushion than a block, perfect for long drives or 8+ hour shifts.

Mastermind Tactics Pillow Comfort
Better than no wedge, but its firmer foam can feel rigid. Over time, it lacks adaptability to body movement.

Winner: Cloudster Pillow – softer, breathable, and adjustable.

Concealment: Which Tucks Better?

Cloudster Pillow Concealment
Multiple sizes and adjustable fill mean you control the level of grip tuck. The Deluxe maximizes concealment for full-size pistols; the Mini keeps compacts low-profile.

Mastermind Tactics Pillow Concealment
Helps, but with only one size, concealment varies by body type.

Winner: Cloudster Pillow – customization ensures deeper tuck and minimal printing.

For more concealment tips, see our guide on how to reduce printing when carrying IWB.

Durability & Materials

Cloudster Pillow

  • Memory foam resists breakdown longer.

  • Washable covers for easy care.

  • Handmade in the USA.

Mastermind Tactics Pillow

  • Closed-cell foam holds up short term but compresses over time.

  • No removable cover.

Winner: Cloudster Pillow – longer-lasting and easier to maintain.

Size Options & Versatility

Cloudster Pillow

  • Mini – best for subcompacts.

  • Standard – balanced option.

  • Deluxe – maximum comfort for full-size pistols.

This ensures there’s a wedge for everyone.

Mastermind Tactics Pillow

  • One standard size only.

Winner: Cloudster Pillow – true wedge sizing chart flexibility.

Price & Value

Cloudster Pillow

  • Slightly higher cost, but premium materials and customization = more value.

Mastermind Tactics Pillow

  • Lower upfront price, but less durable and less adaptable.

Winner: Cloudster Pillow – better long-term investment.

Pros & Cons at a Glance

Cloudster Pillow
✅ Cooling gel memory foam
✅ Multiple sizes (Mini, Standard, Deluxe)
✅ Adjustable fill
✅ Washable, premium covers
✅ Superior concealment
❌ Higher price
❌ Slightly bulkier in Deluxe

Mastermind Tactics Pillow
✅ Affordable price
✅ Lightweight, slim design
✅ Easy Velcro attachment
❌ One size only
❌ Less durable foam
❌ Limited comfort for long wear

Final Verdict: Cloudster Pillow vs Mastermind Tactics Pillow

Both wedges are an improvement over carrying without one. But side by side, the Cloudster Pillow consistently outperforms the Mastermind Tactics Pillow in comfort, concealment, durability, and versatility.

Choose Mastermind Tactics Pillow if you want a basic, entry-level wedge.
Choose Cloudster Pillow if you want all-day comfort, customizable sizing, and long-lasting performance.

For most carriers, the Cloudster Pillow isn’t just a wedge — it’s a personalized comfort system that adapts to your firearm, body type, and lifestyle.

Upgrade to everyday comfort with the Cloudster Pillow Holster Wedge.

FAQs: Cloudster Pillow vs Mastermind Tactics Pillow

1. Is the Cloudster Pillow worth the extra cost?
Yes — it lasts longer, feels better, and adapts to your carry style.

2. Can both wedges fit any IWB holster?
Yes, both use Velcro, but the Cloudster Pillow adapts better thanks to its adjustable fill.

3. Which wedge reduces printing more?
The Cloudster Pillow — its sizing options and fill control allow deeper concealment.

4. Will either wedge add bulk?
The Mastermind is slimmer, but the Mini Cloudster Pillow offers similar low-profile comfort with better cushioning.

5. Which wedge lasts longer?
The Cloudster Pillow — thanks to memory foam and washable covers, it holds up better over time.

cloudster