Holsters and Gear Recommendations
Holster Wedge 101: What It Is, Why You Need One, and How It Improves Concealed Carry
Holster Wedges: Comfort and Concealment in One Essential Accessory
A holster wedge is a small but highly effective concealed carry accessory designed to improve both comfort and concealment. Typically made from foam, rubber, or other cushioning materials, it attaches between the holster and your body.
The wedge serves two main purposes:
- Comfort: By cushioning and redistributing pressure, it reduces hot spots and irritation during extended wear.
- Concealment: By pushing the grip of the firearm inward toward the body, it minimizes printing and creates a smoother, more discreet profile under clothing.
Brands like Cloudster Pillow have taken wedge design a step further by offering contoured, soft-yet-firm wedges tailored for all-day carry, especially in appendix and inside-the-waistband (IWB) setups.
Key Takeaways
- A holster wedge improves comfort and concealment — not one at the expense of the other.
- Cloudster Pillow wedges are designed to reduce printing, improve stability, and keep carry comfortable for hours.
- Choosing the right wedge involves considering body type, holster style, and carry position.
- Installation is simple, and regular adjustment ensures the wedge stays effective over time.
The Benefits of Using a Holster Wedge
1. Enhanced Comfort
Pressure points from a holster can cause discomfort, especially during long hours of carry. A wedge acts as a cushion, making your holster feel more natural against your body. Cloudster Pillow’s foam blend provides enough firmness for stability without sacrificing softness for comfort.
2. Better Concealment
By angling the grip of the firearm toward your torso, the wedge reduces printing through clothing — an important factor in keeping your carry discreet. Cloudster Pillow designs their wedges with tapered edges for smoother concealment under everything from t-shirts to business attire.
3. Improved Stability
A stable holster sits consistently in the same position, making your draw more predictable. While a wedge isn’t a “speed draw” gadget, Cloudster Pillow wedges help keep your holster locked in place, even during physical activity.
Choosing the Right Holster Wedge
Different body shapes, holster designs, and clothing choices affect wedge performance.
- Broad hips: Wider wedge for extra support.
- Slim profile: Thinner, more streamlined wedge to avoid bulk.
- Clothing style: Cloudster Pillow’s AIWB wedges pair especially well with athletic wear or casual outfits, while their low-profile IWB versions suit business attire.
If possible, try multiple styles or speak to a knowledgeable retailer for recommendations.
Installing and Adjusting a Holster Wedge
Most wedges attach using adhesive or Velcro. The goal is to position it where it supports both comfort and concealment — often at the lower portion of the holster’s body-facing side. Cloudster Pillow wedges ship with easy-install Velcro strips so you can adjust placement without tools.
Maintenance
- Clean regularly: Hand wash foam wedges with mild soap, air dry completely. Cloudster Pillow’s materials are sweat-resistant and quick-drying.
- Inspect for wear: Replace if the wedge loses shape or firmness.
- Adjust as needed: Changes in weight, clothing, or activity can alter performance.
Clearing Up Common Misconceptions
- Myth: Wedges are only for uncomfortable holsters.
Fact: They benefit even comfortable setups by improving stability and concealment. - Myth: All wedges work the same.
Fact: Cloudster Pillow’s contoured, body-specific designs fit more naturally and last longer than generic foam blocks.
Final Thoughts
A holster wedge is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve your concealed carry comfort and concealment. By cushioning pressure points, reducing printing, and stabilizing your holster, it can transform your carry experience without replacing your entire rig.
Pro tip: If you want a wedge specifically designed for appendix carry, check out Cloudster Pillow’s appendix carry pillow IWB and AIWB wedges. They’re tailored for all-day comfort while keeping your firearm discreet — and they work with most popular holsters on the market.
