Bellybands have long been a popular choice for women’s concealed carry; based on data from my Holsters quiz, 56% of women who conceal-carry use one. But what makes this a preferred method, and how do you know if you’re purchasing a good product?
In the last seven years that I’ve been carrying a gun, I’ve tried multiple bellybands, and I’m delighted with the recent improvements companies have made to this product. Bellybands have come a long way, from simple elastic bands with pockets to bands supporting Kydex holsters. Today I’d like to share my favorites and what I see as the pros and cons.
Why wear a Bellyband?
People choose bellybands for a variety of reasons:
More comfortable than a belt – This is a personal preference and can vary based on body type and what the individual has grown accustomed to, but some women find bellybands to be more comfortable than a belt
Beltless Clothing – A bellyband offers a solution for carrying when your clothes lack belt loops—for example, leggings, stretch pants, sweatpants, skirts, etc.
To prevent printing – Bellybands are often characterized by a band of elastic that compresses the gun to your body. In some cases, this conceals better than other holster options and can allow you to wear more form-fitting clothes.
Flexibility of placement – Most bellybands are adjustable, allowing for placement anywhere on the torso, which is handy for comfort and concealment.
For exercising – Not only do bellybands work with beltless athletic wear, but many are made from sweat-wicking material, and when there’s good retention, you can exercise while wearing one.
Are bellybands comfortable?
Many people find bellybands more comfortable than a belt and Kydex holster due to the soft material and flex that allows the holster to move with your body.
When bellybands are uncomfortable, there’s often a fix:
The band can chafe your skin (add a tank top)
Too tight around the hips can cause muscle fatigue when you walk (Loosen it or choose a version with more stretch).
Too tight on the lungs can make breathing more difficult. (Loosen it or choose a version with more stretch.)
If it rides up, it can become too loose. This is common for pear-shaped women. (Try wearing the band under your pants instead of overtop. Or wear it at the natural waist instead of hips.)
What should I look for in a bellyband?
A good bellyband should be comfortable, adjustable, stay in place, and retain the gun well. While comfort is subjective, it’s generally agreed that the bellyband should not cut into your skin or induce pain. Choose one that is adjustable but secure – check the enclosures (hooks, snaps, or Velcro) to make sure it stays securely wrapped around your torso.
The gun should remain in the holster no matter what movements you make. Test the retention by holstering an unloaded gun and try all kinds of movement – jumping, sitting down, bending over, running, burpees, etc. The results will reveal how good the retention is and show you if it’s an appropriate bellyband for working out.
Trigger protection is another high priority. Thankfully, there are options with a Kydex trigger cover, but at the very least, use a manual safety.
Pros and Cons of using a bellyband
What clothing can I wear with a bellyband?
Unsurprisingly, so many women choose to use a bellyband because they’re one of the most versatile holsters, working with various clothing and placing the gun near your hands for a quick draw.
Clothes to wear with a bellyband:
Leggings/ yoga pants
Sweatpants
Athletic shorts
(This is where bellybands shine: they provide a method to conceal carry when your pants don’t have belt loops.)
Skirts – A thigh holster is also an option, but it does place the gun farther away from your reach. A bellyband provides quick access by placing the gun inside the waistband of your skirt.
Dresses – It will depend on your body type and the cut of the dress, but you may be able to conceal it with a bellyband under it. For example, a shift dress hands straight down from the shoulders, so if your waist pinches in, this provides a spot for the gun to nest secretly.
Jeans – Although bellybands shine with belt-less clothing, you can wear them when your pants include belt loops.
