Best Concealed Carry Gear & Essentials for Women, Holsters and Gear Recommendations, IWB Holster Wedge
Mastermind Tactics Pillow vs Cloudster Pillow
Quick verdict: Both wedges fight AIWB printing the same way — a soft pad between your holster and your body. The Cloudster Pillow uses shredded cooling-gel memory foam in a choice of three covers (White bamboo, Camo cotton, Dark cotton blend), comes in 4 sizes from $20, and comes with free 30-day returns; the Mastermind Tactics Pillow uses poly fill in an acrylic cover and comes in four sizes from $22.99 (frequently discounted). Both let you add or remove fill. If you want a pillow that comes with memory foam, arrives already filled, and has free 30-day returns, the Cloudster is the stronger pick.
Here’s the honest side-by-side, at a glance:
| Cloudster Pillow | Mastermind Tactics Pillow | |
|---|---|---|
| Fill | Shredded cooling-gel memory foam | Synthetic poly fill |
| Adjustable fill | Yes — add or remove foam | Yes — add or remove fill |
| Starting price | $20 | $22.99 |
| Returns | Free 30-day returns | No returns or exchanges on pillows |
| In the package | Arrives filled, with a bag of extra fill, an extra Velcro strip and an alcohol wipe | You fill it yourself (fill arrives vacuum-sealed); no alcohol wipe listed |
| Shipping | Same day by 11 AM PST (see below) | 3-4 day lead time plus days in transit |
| Cover | Breathable bamboo (White), cotton (Camo) or cotton blend (Dark) | 100% acrylic fabric |
| Sizes | 4 — Mini, Standard, Deluxe, Monster | 4 — Pad, Wedge, King, Mega |
| Attachment | Hook-and-loop (velcro) | Hook-and-loop (velcro) |
Buy the Cloudster Pillow in White (bamboo), Camo (cotton) or Dark (cotton blend) — from $20.
Shipping: Cloudster Pillow orders placed before 11:00 AM PST are shipped the same day. Orders placed after 11:00 AM PST are shipped the next business day. Orders ship Monday through Saturday. Mastermind Tactics’ site lists a current lead time of 3-4 days before an order ships, plus days in transit.
Why I built the Cloudster — after carrying the Mastermind pillow myself
The Mastermind Tactics pillow was one of the very first fixes I tried, and to be fair it was more comfortable than most wedges. But it didn’t solve the problem for me. I was still getting the edge of my Kydex holster digging into my appendix, the synthetic fill never molded or conformed to my body and holster, it wasn’t easy to adjust, it ran a little small, and the acrylic cover wasn’t as soft as I wanted against my skin all day. So I built the Cloudster to fix every one of those things. The cover is soft and plush, it adjusts in seconds, and the shredded cooling-gel memory foam actually fills the gap between the holster and my body — so that hard Kydex edge disappears completely. The sizing is dialed in, and with four sizes it fits any setup, whether you run a sidecar, a weapon light, or a full-size gun.
Mastermind Pillow vs Cloudster Pillow: Which Holster Wedge Offers Superior Comfort?
Material Quality and Feel
The Cloudster Pillow uses shredded cooling gel memory foam, which adapts perfectly to individual body shapes. Its outer cover consists of soft, breathable fabric. The Mastermind Tactics Pillow, on the other hand, uses a synthetic cover which may not offer the same level of breathability.
Customizable Comfort
A standout feature of the Cloudster Pillow is its adjustable fill. Users can add or remove foam to achieve their ideal level of firmness and support. This customization proves particularly beneficial for concealed carry, as it allows for fine-tuning based on specific holster and firearm combinations.
Pressure Point Alleviation
The American Chiropractic Association reports that proper support can significantly reduce discomfort associated with pressure points. The Cloudster Pillow’s adaptive foam distributes weight evenly, minimizing hotspots that often occur with rigid holster designs. This benefit becomes especially apparent for appendix carry, where comfort is paramount.
User Feedback
Customers consistently report improved comfort levels compared to other products on the market. Many have shared that they can now carry for longer periods without the nagging discomfort they previously experienced. This increased comfort translates to better focus and situational awareness (critical factors for responsible concealed carry).
Ergonomic Design
Both pillows let you add or remove fill. Customers who have used both say in their reviews that the Cloudster’s fill is easier to adjust. The Cloudster comes with shredded memory foam; the Mastermind pillow comes with synthetic poly fill. The Cloudster Pillow’s innovative design ensures that you don’t have to compromise between comfort and effective concealment.
Now that we’ve explored the comfort aspects, let’s examine how these pillows perform in terms of concealment effectiveness.
Mastermind Pillow Wedge vs Cloudster: Which Conceals Better?
Minimizing Printing
The Cloudster Pillow’s design creates a smoother transition between the firearm and the body than the Mastermind pad, which helps eliminate hard contact between holsters and users’ bodies. This becomes particularly noticeable with larger firearms, where printing often causes major concerns. Users report a dramatic improvement in concealment, even when they wear lighter clothing.
The Mastermind pillow wedge may not offer the same level of printing reduction, especially for those who carry full-sized handguns. The Cloudster Pillow’s adjustable fill allows users to fine-tune the level of concealment.
Versatile Holster Compatibility
One of the Cloudster Pillow’s strengths lies in its compatibility with a wide range of holster types. The Cloudster Pillow adapts seamlessly to Kydex, leather, or hybrid designs.
The Cloudster Pillow works exceptionally well with popular holster brands (such as Phlster, Black Arch, and Tenicor). This broad compatibility ensures that users can maintain their preferred holster setup while they enhance comfort and concealment.
Tailored Size Options
The Cloudster Pillow offers multiple size options, chosen by your gun and holster. This range of choices allows users to select the perfect size for their specific needs, whether they prefer appendix carry, strong-side hip, or small-of-back positions.
Subcompact pistols like the Glock 43X fit the Standard or the Deluxe; compact and full-size pistols like the Glock 19 and Glock 17 fit the Deluxe or the Monster. The Mini is for minimal wedging with added comfort: mag carriers, tourniquet pouches, smaller gear on a duty belt, or to reduce or eliminate hotspots along the beltline.
User Feedback on Concealment
Concealed carriers prioritize effective concealment when choosing carry gear. The Cloudster Pillow’s focus on adaptability and printing reduction directly addresses this key concern, which makes it a top choice for those who take discreet carry seriously.
The next chapter will explore the durability and maintenance aspects of these concealment solutions, which play a crucial role in their long-term effectiveness and value.
Will Your Concealment Pillow Stand the Test of Time?
Built to Last
The construction quality of a concealment pillow directly impacts its lifespan. High-density memory foam maintains its shape and support even after prolonged use. This resilience proves essential for consistent comfort and concealment effectiveness.
Lower-quality pillows often use cheaper materials that break down quickly, which leads to reduced performance and the need for frequent replacements.
Easy Care for Longevity
Proper maintenance extends the life of your concealment pillow. A removable, machine-washable cover allows for easy cleaning without compromising the integrity of the inner foam.
To preserve shape and softness, wash the cover in cold water and air dry it. For the foam insert, spot cleaning with a mild detergent usually suffices. These simple care steps can significantly extend the life of your pillow.
Wear Resistance in Real-World Use
Concealed carry often involves dynamic movement and varying environmental conditions. A durable pillow must withstand these challenges without losing its effectiveness.
Material Quality Matters
The choice of materials significantly influences a concealment pillow’s durability. High-quality memory foam and breathable fabrics contribute to a longer-lasting product. These materials resist compression and maintain their supportive properties over time.
In contrast, pillows made with lower-grade synthetic fill or synthetic covers may deteriorate more quickly. This deterioration can lead to reduced comfort and compromised concealment effectiveness.
Long-Term Value
Investing in a high-quality, durable concealment pillow (like the Cloudster) ensures that you won’t need to replace it frequently. This approach not only saves money in the long run but also provides peace of mind. You’ll know that your gear will perform when you need it most.
When comparing options (such as the Mastermind pillow), consider not just the initial comfort but also how well the product will hold up over time. A pillow that loses its shape or support quickly can compromise your concealment and comfort, potentially putting you in a difficult situation.
Final Thoughts
The Cloudster Pillow outperforms the Mastermind Tactics Pillow in adaptability, comfort, and concealment effectiveness. Its shredded cooling gel memory foam and choice of a breathable cover in bamboo, cotton or a cotton blend provide superior customization. The Cloudster Pillow’s design excels at reducing printing, even with larger firearms, and its compatibility with various holster types offers users more flexibility. The Cloudster Pillow is available in three colors: White, crafted from breathable bamboo fabric; Camo, made from 100% durable cotton; and Dark, made from a soft cotton blend. Each Cloudster Pillow is ultra-soft, long-lasting, and designed for maximum comfort, having been tested for over 10 hours per day of daily use.
For those who prioritize comfort, effective concealment, and long-term durability, the Cloudster Pillow emerges as the superior choice. Its thoughtful design addresses many common issues faced by concealed carriers, from discomfort during extended wear to concerns about printing. The Cloudster Pillow’s combination of adjustability, comfort, and concealment effectiveness makes it a standout product in the market.
The choice between these products will depend on individual needs and preferences. However, for those who seek a versatile, comfortable, and effective concealment solution, the Cloudster Pillow presents a compelling option. It addresses the key concerns of concealed carriers without compromising on comfort or concealment (a rare feat in the industry). If you want the full field, here’s how the top holster wedges compare.
FAQs
1. What is the Cloudster Pillow, and how does it compare to the Mastermind Tactics Pillow?
The Cloudster Pillow is a holster wedge designed to enhance comfort and concealment for appendix inside-the-waistband (AIWB) carry setups. Both have adjustable fill, so you can fine-tune comfort and reduce pressure points. The Cloudster Pillow comes with shredded cooling gel memory foam and a breathable cover in bamboo, cotton or a cotton blend; the Mastermind Tactics Pillow comes with synthetic poly fill and an acrylic cover.
2. Which pillow is better for concealed carry comfort: Cloudster or Mastermind Tactics?
The Cloudster Pillow is often preferred for its superior comfort. Its adjustable fill and cooling gel memory foam adapt to individual body shapes, providing a customized fit. Users report reduced discomfort and increased comfort during extended wear compared to the Mastermind Tactics Pillow.
3. How does the Cloudster Pillow improve concealment compared to the Mastermind Tactics Pillow?
The Cloudster Pillow’s design creates a smoother transition between the firearm and the body, minimizing printing. Its adjustable fill allows users to fine-tune the level of concealment, making it particularly effective for larger firearms or those with challenging body types.
4. Is the Cloudster Pillow compatible with all holsters?
Yes, the Cloudster Pillow is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of holster types, including Kydex, leather, and hybrid designs. Its versatility ensures that users can maintain their preferred holster setup while enhancing comfort and concealment.
5. How do I maintain the Cloudster Pillow to ensure long-term use?
The Cloudster Pillow’s removable, machine-washable cover allows for easy cleaning without compromising the integrity of the inner foam. To preserve shape and softness, wash the cover in cold water and air dry it. For the foam insert, spot cleaning with a mild detergent usually suffices.
6. Is the Mastermind pillow wedge a good holster wedge for AIWB?
The Mastermind pillow wedge is a solid AIWB option. The Cloudster Pillow gives the same printing reduction with shredded cooling-gel memory foam you can add or remove to dial in firmness for your specific gun and body. Customers who reviewed the Cloudster after using a Mastermind pillow say they prefer its softer cover and memory foam fill.
7. What makes the Cloudster Pillow stand out from other holster wedges?
The Cloudster Pillow is unique due to its adjustable shredded cooling gel memory foam that adapts to individual body contours. This allows for a customized fit, enhancing both comfort and concealment for extended periods of concealed carry.
8. Should I choose the Cloudster Pillow or Mastermind Tactics Pillow for versatility across carry positions?
Both have adjustable fill and a hook-and-loop backing that can be repositioned. The Cloudster Pillow adapts to appendix, strong-side, or small-of-back carry, comes with memory foam, arrives already filled, and has free 30-day returns if it does not suit the way you carry.
