As the temperature rises, you’ll need concealed-carry gear that’s suitable for warm weather. This generally means lighter garments that are breathable yet provide enough material to conceal your defensive pistol. You’ll likely also want to find a holster that isn’t bulky and doesn’t trap heat and moisture. Even your footwear and optics needs may change in summer. Here’s a list of 10 items that are ideal for warm-weather CCW, as well as gear that helps keep you cool and comfortable while your firearm stays out of sight.
1. BLACKHAWK! Cool React Polo:
If you’re looking for a lightweight collared shirt that’s designed with concealed carry in mind, the BLACKHAWK! Cool React Polo is an excellent option. These shirts feature Cool React Technology, which has a built-in liner that reacts to sweat and provides a cooling sensation, allowing you to remain comfortable even when you’re active. There are vents on both sides of the shirt for added breathability, which further enhances cooling. These shirts allow for a full range of motion and provide an ideal cover garment in warm weather, yet the three-button design and no-curl collar make the Cool React Polo a classy business casual shirt that’s at home on the range, in the grocery store or at the office. There are three color options and sizes range from small to 3XL. $59.99. Blackhawk.com
2. Danner FullBore Coyote Hot:
The Fullbore Coyote Hot might be the perfect warm-weather boot. They feature uppers made from suede and breathable mesh, and the moisture-wicking air mesh liner keeps your feet cool and dry in hot weather. The footbed is made from open cell polyurethane, which provides improved air circulation and heat dissipation. These 4.5-inch boots weigh just 42 ounces per pair. But just because they’re light doesn’t mean they aren't durable: The Vibram SPE midsole offers plenty of cushion when moving, and the Fuga outsole with Megagrip keeps you firmly planted on the climb. $150. Danner.com
3. Bianchi Prevader Holster:
The open-top Prevader combines a 1050-denier ballistic weave exterior with a closed-cell foam interior and nylon liner, and this allows for a smooth draw with minimal weight, ideal for carrying under light summer clothes. Another key feature of the Prevader is the Pinch Retention Device, a polymer insert that firmly grips both sides of the trigger guard to secure the firearm in place. The Prevader rides high and close to the body, and the reinforced opening makes one-handed reholstering simple and efficient. Lightweight, durable, affordable and easy to conceal, the Prevader certainly earns a top spot on the summer concealed-carry gear list. $38.00. safariland.com
4. Tru-Spec Ascent Shorts:
Constructed from 6.5-ounce polyester cotton micro rip-stop material, Ascent shorts are durable yet light. They offer a gusseted crotch for full range of motion and plenty of durable pockets for carrying all of your gear. The material is also water- and stain-repellent, and the 2-inch belt loops will accommodate even the widest carry belts with ease. A comfort slider waistband perfectly fits a variety of body types, and with durable hardware like Tru-Spec’s PRYM Snap and YKK brass zippers, these shorts will last for years. They are available in both men’s and women’s sizes and a variety of colors. $43.46. truspec.com
5. DeSantis E25 Econobelt:
It’s important to wear a sturdy belt when carrying a firearm, and the E25 Econobelt is a perfect option for summer carry. For starters, it doesn’t look like it was specifically designed for carry. A combination of bonded leather and synthetic material construction gives the impression that it’s simply a dress belt, but sturdy construction and 3.5mm thickness allow it hold your firearm securely in place. It’s lighter than many competing carry belts, and the black powder-coated buckle is durable and stylish. The Econobelt shown here measures 1½ inches wide and is available in waist sizes ranging from 28 to 54 inches. It’s also a great bargain. $35.99. desantisholster.com
6. BLACKHAWK! TecGrip Magazine Pouch:
It’s always a good idea to carry a spare magazine, but traditional belt-mounted mag pouches can print (meaning others might see it), and can trap a lot of heat and moisture. The TecGrip pouch is a simple and affordable alternative. They’re made from high-density closed-cell foam that conforms to the body, and the TecGrip material holds firmly against clothing materials and allows for fast, easy magazine retrieval. These pouches are available to fit full-sized double-stack magazines or subcompact single-stack magazines, and they can be easily and discreetly tucked into a pocket or waistband. $14.95. Blackhawk.com
7. Tru-Spec Drirelease Short Sleeve T-Shirt:
Drirelease shirts make an ideal base layer or, in warmer weather, a great top garment. They wick away moisture and dry quickly, which helps keep you cool and comfortable on hot summer days...and they feature raglan sleeves that allow for a greater range of motion than most competing shirts. Flat seam construction and a ribbed collar increase comfort. These lightweight shirts are well-suited for a day at the range or simply wearing around town on warm days. $17.95. truspec.com
8. Desantis Belly Band: Belly band holsters are ideal for summer carry. Their low-bulk design conforms to the shooter’s body, they’re comfortable, and they are machine washable. The DeSantis Belly Band is a full 5 inches wide, and the elastic body stretches to comfortably fit a variety of body types. There are plenty of pockets for your keys, spare magazines, credit cards and, of course, your firearm. Plus the Velcro strap offers retention for your firearm yet still allows quick access. The DeSantis Belly Band is especially well-suited for active lifestyles and works well for hikers or joggers. It’s also a great concealment option when wearing light clothes, since the low-bulk design is unlikely to print under summer garments. $60.99. desantisholster.com 
9. Venture Gear Overwatch Sunglasses: Sunglasses are a necessity during the summer months, and Venture Gear’s Overwatch glasses are a great option for shooters. The full-frame lenses and metal hinges make them extremely durable, and the anti-fog, scratch-resistant polycarbonate lenses provide 99 percent UVA/B/C protection. Overwatch glasses also pass MIL-PRF 32432 velocity impact standards. Rubber temple tips and a soft, polymer nosepiece provide maximum comfort whether you’re on the range or simply heading out to run errands. And since they are priced around $20, they’re also very affordable. pyramexsafety.com
10. Galco Kingtuk Air IWB Holster:
The Galco Kingtuk Air is specifically designed for maximum comfort during warm-weather concealed carry. The steerhide backing has ventilation holes to help keep you cool, and the raised sweat guard prevents the gun from riding against the body, reducing the gun’s exposure to corrosive perspiration. The holster pocket is made from durable, lightweight Kydex; 1.5-inch Uniclips and Ultimate Stealth Clips come standard. All this combines to make the Kingtuk Air one of the most durable and comfortable IWB summer carry holsters on the market. $69.00. galcogunleather.com
