Why Leather Holsters Aren’t Just Cooler, They’re Better

Cool factor aside (which is definitely still a thing, don’t take that the wrong way) there are still many other material reasons that leather holsters are better than Kydex and other thermoplastic holsters.

Objectively, that case can’t be made. Like any other head-to-head, there are areas in which leather outperforms Kydex and vice-versa.

But, relatively speaking, we’re going to dive into some of the best reasons that leather holsters still have the edge, despite the fact that leather is a much older, natural material and not the most technologically advanced.

So, whether you carry a wheelgun, a 1911, or a Glock like everyone else, here are some of the best reasons to love your leather holster more than you already do.

1. Leather is comfortable from day one

This is one of the biggest advantages of leather over thermoplastic, nylon and Kydex holsters. It is more comfortable and it only gets more comfortable as time goes on.

The long and short of it is that leather is soft and plastic sheaths are hard, and even with months, even years of wear, plastic isn’t going to get more comfortable.

It is clunky, hard, and sometimes Kydex sheaths have relatively sharp edges that produce hot spots. This is rarely if ever the case with a leather holster.

So on comfort, leather holsters win, period.

2. The fit to your handgun improves with time

It is true that out of the box a Kydex sheath is going to offer a better friction fit than pretty much any holster made of leather, no matter the gun or the style of holster.

With that said, leather holsters will conform not just to your contours over time, but to the gun’s, affording a custom-like fit, like a glove, even from a stock holster.

Only leather offers you a fit that will improve with time. Thermoplastic sheaths offer a solid friction fit right out of the gate but it isn’t going to get any better; if anything, it’ll get worse as the holster wears.

3. Leather acquires a beautiful patina

Kydex and other thermoplastics will wear out with use. That is not the case with leather, especially heavy, stiff, full-grain leather, which will acquire a patina that’s every bit as unique as a fingerprint over time.

The patina of a leather holster will tell its story and will increase not just the aesthetics of the holster but its sentimental value to the owner as well; just as a well-worn, frequently carried gun will as well.

4. It protects the gun and its finish

Kydex and other thermoplastic sheaths, being hard, are not particularly easy on a gun, especially its finish. In fact, they are notorious for marring the finish of guns and certain components.

This is not the case with leather holsters, which are softer and unlikely to do so, making them much better for guns that are highly polished or which are finished with coatings that are susceptible to abrasion.

The one note here that is important to keep in mind is that, even though leather is softer on the gun and won’t harm the finish, leather can trap moisture. For this reason you should not keep your gun holstered for prolonged periods of time so that it doesn’t rust.

5. Leather is easier to care for than you think

There are some that might shy away from leather simply because it, being a natural material, will need a little more care and attention than a synthetic like Kydex, which will never need any.

The thing is that leather, though it does need periodic care and maintenance, really doesn’t need as much as you think. Protect it from harsh chemicals, don’t let it get wet, and if it does get wet, let it dry out slowly.

Other than that, clean it once a month with an appropriate leather cleaner and treat it with a leather oil or conditioner to prevent warping and cracking, and that’s all you need.

6. Some leather holsters are less likely to print

Lastly, while the size and shape of the gun, as well as how and where you carry it, are the primary determining factors in whether or not the gun will print, the hostler you choose can impact this as well.

The truth is that Kydex is hard and unyielding, and leather is not. Leather, being softer and more pliable, is less likely to print noticeable even if worn in a relatively conspicuous location, so that’s something that should impact your choice as well if you carry concealed and it is a concern of yours.

Explore Leather Holsters and Upgrade Your Carry Loadout Today

Thinking it might be time to upgrade to a leather holster for your favorite gun? Take a look through our collection and let us know what you’re looking for if you’re having a hard time finding it.