For many people, concealed carry is part of their everyday lives. With its growing popularity, there has been a rise in concealed carry products that allow you to bring your handgun with you discreetly.
One of the most popular products is the concealed carry vest. Below, we discuss what to look for in concealed carry vests, and show you some of the best options on the market today.
Table of Contents
Concealed Carry Vests – Buyer’s Guide
When buying a concealed carry vest, there are a few important features that should be considered before making your choice.
Weight
The weight of the vest you choose depends on the type of physical activity you plan to do while wearing the vest. If you are looking for a concealed carry vest for everyday use, you will need a vest that is extremely lightweight and breathable so that it does not make you hot or weigh you down.
If you need a concealed carry vest that is only for certain occasions and short-time wear, then you can choose a vest made from sturdier and thicker fabric. Also, if you live in a colder climate, or plan to use your vest primarily in colder weather, the heavier vest is beneficial for warmth.
Fabric
Choosing fabric for your vest goes hand-in-hand with the category above. If you are a biker looking for a concealed carry vest, they have some that are made completely of cowhide. This material can withstand the wear from the wind while riding and last for a lifetime.
By contrast, someone needing a lightweight vest will need something made from polyester. At first, it may not sound like the best choice for material, but it is really one of the best options for concealed carry vests.
Polyester is durable, lightweight, water-resistant, and breathable. Another lightweight option is cotton, however, cotton does not always have all the benefits that polyester provides.
Price
The last major category to consider before purchasing a concealed carry vest is price. There are vests on the market fitting a wide range of budgets, making it difficult to make a decision.
It is best to choose a budget before you begin to look and stick to it. Remember, a more expensive vest does not always mean that it is better quality.
The Best Concealed Carry Vests For 2021
Here are the top three best concealed carry vests for 2021:
1. Venado Concealed Carry Vests for Men
The first vest on our list is the Venado Concealed Carry Vest for Men. This vest is on the expensive side, but it has many amazing qualities that make the price worth it. The vest is made from 100% cotton canvas with an insulated and quilted lining. This material combination makes the vest sturdy and warm without being bulky and uncomfortable. As for pockets, there are four interior pockets and two large exterior pockets.
The exterior pockets are quite large for extra storage, and each has a snap closure to keep your items safe. Of the four interior pockets, the two upper pockets are designed for concealed carry.
They each have an adjustable velcro and spandex strap to keep your handgun in place securely. The lower interior pockets are designed with an easy pull strap so that your magazines can be removed quickly and easily. In the end, this vest looks great and does a great job with concealment.
Top Features:
- Made from high quality, durable materials
- Two large exterior pockets, 4 interior pockets for handgun and magazines
- The insulated interior provides warmth
- 100% money-back guarantee
Pros:
- 100% cotton canvas exterior
- Machine washable
- Stylish and comfortable enough for everyday wear
Cons:
- Expensive
- Needs to be fully zipped for full concealment of the weapon
2. Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vests
The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and breathable vest. This vest is made from a cotton and polyester combination fabric that makes it durable while allowing it to remain light. It resembles a fishing vest in that it has many pockets of different sizes on the exterior and interior; over 20 in total.
On the inside, there are two concealed carry pockets and four magazine pouches for your convenience. The center zipper is two-way, making it easier to access your weapon in any situation.
Top Features:
- Over 20 pockets, including 2 concealed carry and 4 magazine
- Two-way center zipper for easy access
- Mesh lining and back slits for breathability
Pros:
- Three neutral color options
- Made from lightweight and breathable cotton/polyester blend
- Adjustable tabs for a more precise fit
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Some external pockets are too small for convenient use
- Not enough padding around handgun pockets
3. Cinch Men’s Bonded Softshell Vest with Concealed Carry Pockets
The Cinch Men’s Bonded Softshell Vest with Concealed Carry Pockets is the most discreet of all the vests on our list. The interior of this softshell vest includes concealed carry pockets on both sides to accommodate both left and right-handed individuals.
Also included is a Velcro-backed holster to hold your weapon safely. The zippered, exterior pockets are large enough to hold your extra belongings whenever necessary.
The vest as a whole is made from a material that is 93% spandex and 7% polyester. This material gives the wearer a flattering fit, while also being warm, windproof, and water-resistant.
Top Features:
- Stylish and flattering fit
- Windproof and water-resistant
- Right and left-handed interior pockets
Pros:
- Velcro backed holster
- Zippered exterior pockets
- Very discreet
Cons:
- Only comes in Small, Medium, and Large
- Only black available
Conclusion
In the end, the best vest for you will fit all your needs and be comfortable for you to wear whenever you need it. This list is just a small collection of some of the best concealed carry vests on the market today. If the vest isn’t what you’re looking for, there are many more concealed carry options available.
