1911 Holsters: Leather vs. Kydex

There are two broad categories of 1911 holsters, based on material. There are leather 1911 holsters, which represent the traditional option, and there are modern thermoplastic holsters, which generally is inclusive of nylon and Kydex 1911 holsters. 

This short post will break down the main details associated with each of these types. 

Leather 1911 Holsters 

A leather 1911 holster is made from animal skin, typically cowhide, though holsters can in theory be made from other types of leather. 

There are many different types of leather 1911 holsters, including traditional hip holsters intended to be worn on the belt, as well as some slimmer, minimal leather holsters intended for inside waistband (IWB) carry and concealment. There are also shoulder holsters, and a few other types. 

There are many advantages to leather 1911 holsters, of which the following are some of the main ones: 

• Leather 1911 holsters are the classic option and many people prefer them just for the cool factor and aesthetics. 
• On the note of aesthetics, leather looks more appealing than Kydex or other plastics, and over time, leather holsters develop a patina that is very unique and which will give the leather holster even more character, class and overall visual appeal.
• Leather is a soft and supple material. Though it requires break-in, most users find it to be much more comfortable than plastic. 
• Over time leather will form to the contours of your gun and you, affording a custom-like fit that can’t be replicated.
• Because leather is soft, it will protect your gun against impact and other damage. Leather, being soft, also will not damage the finish of your gun, as some plastic holsters can.
• Though leather does not afford the same degree of friction fit, many leather 1911 holsters are designed with flaps that fully cover the gun and improve retention even over what Kydex holsters offer. 
• Many leather 1911 holsters effectively cover the entire gun, including the hammer, which helps significantly minimize the risk of unauthorized access. 
• Most leather holsters are quieter than plastic holsters, which tend to produce an auditory click when holstering or unholstering. 

At the same time, leather 1911 holsters are not all positive. There are some drawbacks: 

• Leather can be stiff at first, and will require a break-in period to become as comfortable as possible. 
• Leather requires considerable care and maintenance. It will need to be periodically conditioned or it will become dry, brittle and crack. 
• Leather can trap moisture, so you shouldn’t keep your gun in a leather holster for a prolonged period of time or you run a higher risk of corrosion and rust. 
• Leather 1911 holsters generally don’t offer the same degree of friction fit that plastic holsters, like Kydex, offer. 

Nylon, Thermoplastic and Kydex 1911 Holsters 

Modern 1911 holsters are generally made of some type of rigid thermoplastic. Common materials include nylon and Kydex, which afford a solid friction fit and good weapon retention. 

Like leather 1911 holsters, Kydex holsters can be designed for inside or outside waistband carry, for either open or concealed carry, and there are other types as well.

Unsurprisingly, there are numerous advantages of modern Kydex 1911 holsters. Here are some of the top ones: 

• Kydex 1911 holsters generally offer the best friction fit, considerably better than leather. As a result, some quickdraw holsters are made of plastic. 
• Kydex holsters have no break-in period and will offer solid performance right out of the gate. 
• With training, a Kydex 1911 holster can allow for one-handed reholstering.
• Unlike leather, thermoplastics and Kydex will not require any maintenance, ever. They are worry-free options. 
• Kydex will not trap moisture, so you can leave a gun holstered in a Kydex holster for a prolonged period of time with minimal concern. 
• Like leather, Kydex (and other plastics) is very durable physically and will last a long time, even with no maintenance required. 
• Kydex will not absorb moisture and retains its shape under stress. It also won’t be damaged by moisture exposure. 

Similarly, there are drawbacks associated with modern Kydex 1911 holsters: 

• Kydex is not as comfortable as leather, and can create pressure points. Some users prefer leather for this reason alone. 
• Kydex and other plastic holsters tend to produce an auditory signal when you are holstering or unholstering a weapon. 
• Since Kydex is rigid, depending on the style of holster, it can tend to print more than leather will. 
• Since they are harder than leather, there is always a risk that a Kydex holster will mar the finish of your gun over time. 

Shop 1911 Holsters Here 

Not sure whether you want to carry in a leather 1911 holster or want something more contemporary, that will require less care and maintenance, such as a Kydex holster? 

Shop our collection; we have no shortage of options and can help you choose if you give us a call at 610-250-3960 and let us know what you are looking for.