Kydex vs. Leather Holsters: Advantages and Disadvantages

Recently we published an article on why leather holsters are great - and they are. But there are other options out there, specifically thermoplastic holsters and Kydex holsters. For the purpose of this article, we will be treating Kydex, nylon and other thermoplastics as one and the same, even if they technically are not. They perform as though they are.

And, to be fair, there are some ways in which the modern synthetic alternative can be said to outperform leather. Let’s take a fresh look at the differences between Kydex and leather holsters as well as what the relative advantages and disadvantages are of each.

Leather Holsters: Recapping the Advantages

First, let’s recap leather holsters and the advantages they offer. Among these, as covered in our recent post, are:

• Leather holsters just have the most cool factor, hands down. They offer class and distinction that modern plastic holsters simply cannot. Let’s face it; does a revolver look classy in anything but an old leather holster?
• Leather holsters are more comfortable and that comfort will increase as a product of time, as the leather will form to the contours of the gun as well as your body. This not only makes leather holsters more comfortable but gives them near-peerless primary retention as well.
• Since leather is soft, they cushion the firearm against impacts and provide a good overall level of protection.
• When equipped with a strap or a snap, leather holsters offer excellent secondary retention that all but prevents unholstering of the gun by all but a deliberate, intentional action.
• Since leather is fairly soft, some leather holsters are less likely to print than hard-plastic modern synthetic alternatives.
• Not that plastic holsters are liable to break, necessarily, but since leather is soft and flexible, they won’t.
• Leather develops a custom, bespoke patina as it ages, increasing the aesthetics of the holster as time goes by.

What Leather Holsters Don’t Do So Well

Now, with that said, there are some things that leather just doesn’t do as well as some alternatives. Some of the biggest shortcomings of leather holsters are:

• Leather can trap moisture and oils, which can damage any wood present, as well as accelerating rust on the barrel, frame, and exposed steel furniture of the gun.
• While modern synthetic alternatives require no break-in period, leather does need to be broken in before it will offer most of the benefits mentioned in the last section.
• Leather is generally (though not always) not a good choice for a quick-draw holster.
• Leather holsters can be fairly expensive as compared to budget-friendly modern synthetic alternatives.

Kydex Holsters: Where They Shine

With all of this said and done, there are still plenty of reasons that Kydex holsters (as well as nylon and thermoplastic holsters) can outperform leather. Here are some of the best.

• Right out of the gate, a Kydex holster (if it is well-designed and compatible with your handgun model) will offer an adjustable, custom-like, friction fit that requires no break-in period. These offer a better friction fit than most leather holsters and are better for quick-draw.
• Kydex holsters are stiff, which prevents the mouth of the holster from bending or collapsing, making it safer and easier to re-holster the weapon.
• Kydex, unlike leather, is both chemical and water resistant. Therefore, it doesn’t break down like leather does and effectively needs no maintenance at all.
• Kydex also will not absorb or trap moisture or oil, which means it will keep your gun drier and less likely to rust.
• Kydex holsters are usually lighter and thinner than comparable leather holsters, making it easier to carry longer and with less fatigue.
• Depending on the model of Kydex holster, it might offer a slimmer profile than a leather alternative, making it better for concealed carry.

Disadvantages of Kydex Holsters

If all of that sounds really good, that’s because it is. Nonetheless, Kydex holsters are not without their shortcomings, some of which are:

• Comfort - one of the big complaints about Kydex and other thermoplastic holsters is that they are stiff and can be very uncomfortable, especially with IWB carry.
• Kydex holsters, since they rely on a friction fit, can cause accelerated wear marks on a gun very rapidly. They can wear away the finish where they contact the gun, which won’t happen with a leather holster.
• Kydex holsters, unlike leather, tend to be pretty unaccommodating of modifications to guns. Many will not function if you change parts or add shooting accessories, like lights, optics, or lasers to your gun.

Here for a New Kydex or Leather Holster?

All in all, no one can say that Kydex holsters or leather holsters are better than the other. They each offer advantages and disadvantages and what works for one person may not work for another. We also carry a wide range of holsters compatible with many different platforms and models, so whatever you’re looking for, there’s a good chance we have it. If you have questions about any of our holsters or are looking for something specific that you don’t see listed, contact us directly and we’ll do our best to help.