How to Choose the Best Glock 17 Holster: Top Tips for Comfort

Choosing the best Glock 17 holster is essential for ensuring comfort, accessibility, and safety. Whether you carry daily or use your firearm at the range, the right holster can make all the difference in how effectively you handle your weapon. With so many options available—inside-the-waistband (IWB), outside-the-waistband (OWB), shoulder rigs, and more—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

To find the perfect fit, you need to consider factors like material durability, retention level, concealment needs, and personal preferences. A well-chosen holster not only enhances your carrying experience but also ensures your Glock 17 stays secure and ready when needed.

By understanding what features matter most for your lifestyle and usage, you'll be able to make an informed decision that aligns with both practicality and performance.

Glock 17 Overview

The Glock 17 is a full-size, semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm. Known for its reliability and simplicity, it's widely used by law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters. Its standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds provides ample firepower for self-defense or range practice.

Weighing approximately 22 ounces unloaded, the Glock 17 balances lightweight construction with durability due to its polymer frame and steel slide. The overall length of 8.03 inches makes it suitable for open carry or concealed carry with proper holster selection. Its consistent trigger pull and minimal recoil enhance accuracy during rapid-fire scenarios.

Compatibility with aftermarket accessories like weapon lights, red dot optics, and extended magazines increases its versatility. If you plan to use these attachments, ensure your holster accommodates them without compromising retention or draw speed.

The Glock Safe Action System includes three passive safeties that engage automatically when the firearm is not in use. This design prioritizes safety while maintaining readiness under stress. When choosing a holster for this model, consider how well it secures the trigger guard to prevent accidental discharge.

Whether you're carrying IWB at the appendix position or OWB on the hip, understanding the dimensions and features of your Glock 17 helps you select a holster that optimizes comfort and functionality.

Why Holster Fit Matters for Glock 17

Holster fit directly impacts safety, comfort, and accessibility when carrying a Glock 17. A poorly fitting holster can compromise retention, increase printing, or make drawing your firearm slower and less reliable.

Safety Concerns

A proper fit ensures the trigger guard is fully covered to prevent accidental discharges. Since negligent handling accounts for 99% of unintentional discharges, securing the trigger area is critical. For example, Kydex holsters offer rigid protection that keeps the trigger inaccessible until drawn.

Retention and Security

Retention systems like passive friction or active locking mechanisms depend on precise holster dimensions. If the fit isn't snug, your Glock 17 may shift during movement or fall out entirely. Adjustable retention options allow you to customize how tightly your pistol stays in place without sacrificing draw speed.

Comfort During Carry

An ill-fitting holster can cause discomfort due to improper weight distribution or excessive bulk. The Glock 17's full-size frame requires a holster designed to accommodate its size while minimizing pressure points against your body. Materials like neoprene reduce chafing during extended wear, especially with inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry.

Concealment Efficiency

For concealed carry users, a good fit reduces printing by keeping the firearm close to your body. Appendix carry positions benefit from slim-profile holsters made of materials like polymer or leather that contour well without adding unnecessary thickness.

Compatibility with Accessories

If you've added optics or weapon lights to your Glock 17, ensure the holster accommodates these modifications. Many modular designs include cutouts for red dot sights or light attachments while maintaining secure retention around the slide and barrel.

Carry Position Considerations for Glock 17

Choosing the right carry position impacts comfort, accessibility, and concealment when carrying a Glock 17. Each position offers distinct advantages based on your daily activities, body type, and clothing preferences.

Inside-the-Waistband (IWB)

IWB holsters sit inside your waistband, offering excellent concealment for the Glock 17. This position works well at the appendix (12 o'clock to 2 o'clock) or hip (3 o'clock to 5 o'clock). It minimizes printing but may feel tight if you wear fitted pants. Look for slim designs made from Kydex or leather to reduce bulk.

Outside-the-Waistband (OWB)

OWB holsters attach outside your belt and provide faster draw speeds due to easier access. They're ideal for open carry or range use but can be harder to conceal under light clothing. A high-ride OWB holster paired with a sturdy belt improves retention and stability.

Appendix Carry

Appendix carry holsters position the firearm in front of your torso between 12 o'clock and 2 o'clock. This method allows quick access while seated but might cause discomfort during extended periods of sitting. Holsters with adjustable cant angles help optimize comfort and drawing efficiency.

Small-of-Back (SOB)

Carrying at the small of your back places the Glock 17 around the 6 o’clock position. While it conceals well under loose shirts, accessing your firearm can be slower, especially when seated or driving. SOB carry also increases risk of injury if you fall backward.

Chest Carry

Chest rigs secure the holster across your chest using straps, making them suitable for outdoor activities like hiking or hunting. They keep the Glock 17 accessible even with bulky gear but aren't practical for everyday concealed carry due to visibility.

Drop Leg Holster

Drop leg holsters strap around your thigh, providing fast access during tactical scenarios or competitive shooting events. These are less discreet than other options but work well when wearing duty belts or heavy outerwear that limits waistline space.

Key Factors by Position

1. Printing: IWB reduces printing better than OWB; appendix carry balances both factors effectively.
2. Comfort: Chest rigs excel in active environments; SOB may strain lower backs.
3. Accessibility: Drop leg setups allow rapid draws; IWB requires practice for smooth retrieval.
4. Sweat Retention: Neoprene-backed holsters minimize moisture buildup compared to polymer-only models.

Evaluate each position based on how often you'll need quick access versus maximum concealment and adjust accordingly to match your lifestyle needs with the Glock 17's dimensions and weight distribution.

Retention & Draw Speed

Retention ensures your Glock 17 stays secure during movement, while draw speed impacts how quickly you can access it. Holsters with adjustable retention systems, like screws or passive friction locks, let you customize the hold strength to match your activity level.  

Active retention mechanisms, such as thumb breaks or trigger guard locks, add an extra layer of security but may slightly slow your draw. These are ideal for open carry scenarios where firearm retention is critical. Passive systems rely on material fit and pressure alone, offering faster draws but less resistance against accidental dislodging.

Draw speed depends on holster design and placement. OWB holsters typically allow quicker access due to their external position, while IWB options prioritize concealment over speed. Appendix carry offers rapid draws in standing positions but might feel awkward when seated. If you're using accessories like optics or weapon lights, ensure the holster accommodates them without obstructing the draw path.

Material choice also affects both retention and draw smoothness. Rigid materials like polymer and Kydex provide consistent retention and snag-free draws, whereas softer options like leather or neoprene may wear down over time, reducing effectiveness. Evaluate these factors based on your daily activities and preferred carry method to balance security with accessibility effectively.

Material Options for Everyday Carry

Choosing the right material for your Glock 17 holster impacts comfort, durability, and performance. Each option offers distinct advantages depending on your carry style and environment.

Kydex

Kydex is a rigid thermoplastic known for its heat resistance and shape retention. It maintains consistent tension around the firearm, ensuring secure retention even with frequent use. Kydex holsters are ideal for concealed carry due to their slim profile and resistance to sweat or humidity. For example, if you carry IWB in hot climates, Kydex prevents moisture buildup while keeping your Glock 17 accessible.

Injection-Molded Polymers

Injection-molded polymer holsters provide similar benefits to Kydex but often come at a lower cost. These holsters offer excellent durability and precise fitment for the Glock 17's dimensions. They also support modularity by accommodating accessories like optics or weapon lights without compromising retention or draw speed.

Leather

Leather holsters deliver traditional aesthetics and initial comfort but soften over time. This softening can reduce retention reliability, especially under humid conditions or prolonged exposure to sweat. If you prefer leather for OWB carry, ensure it fully covers the trigger guard and retains its shape after repeated draws.

Neoprene

Neoprene-backed hybrid holsters combine flexibility with padding for added comfort during extended wear. These are popular among appendix carriers seeking reduced pressure against the body when sitting or bending. However, neoprene may retain more sweat compared to rigid materials like Kydex.

Selecting a material depends on factors such as daily activity level, climate, and desired concealment efficiency.

Adjustability & Modularity

Adjustability and modularity enhance a holster's versatility, allowing it to meet your specific carry needs. Adjustable cant angles let you position the Glock 17 for optimal draw speed and comfort. For example, appendix carriers may prefer a forward cant, while those using OWB holsters might favor a neutral or backward tilt for better accessibility.

Modular designs support compatibility with various attachments like weapon lights, optics, or suppressor-height sights. Some Kydex and polymer holsters feature removable mounting plates or interchangeable clips, enabling transitions between IWB and OWB configurations without purchasing multiple holsters. This flexibility is particularly useful if you alternate between concealed carry and open carry scenarios.

Retention adjustments improve security by letting you fine-tune how tightly the holster grips your firearm. Many models include screws or tension systems that accommodate personal preferences or account for wear over time. If you're active during daily carry, this feature ensures the Glock 17 stays secure without sacrificing quick access.

Sweat guards are another adjustable element in some holsters, providing added protection against moisture buildup on both the firearm and your skin. These guards can be trimmed or repositioned to suit different body types or clothing styles.

Holsters offering modular belt attachment options increase usability across diverse activities. Paddle mounts work well for casual use, while loop systems provide stability during high-movement tasks like running or hiking. Quick-detach mechanisms simplify removal when transitioning from carrying to storage.

Prioritizing adjustability and modularity ensures your Glock 17 holster adapts to changes in lifestyle, gear setups, and preferred carry positions over time.

Trusted Glock 17 Holster Options

Choosing a reliable holster for your Glock 17 ensures comfort, security, and accessibility. Below are trusted options designed to meet various carry needs.

Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

The Cloak Tuck 3.5 for Glock 17 is an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster offering comfort and adjustability for concealed carry. Its breathable neoprene backer reduces sweat retention during extended wear, while the Boltaron shell provides durability and consistent firearm retention.

The tool-free retention system lets you customize the grip strength quickly, ensuring secure yet accessible draw control. Adjustable ride height allows fine-tuning of positioning for optimal concealment and comfort based on your body type or clothing choice.

• Weight: 8.6 oz
• Dimensions: 10.5in x 10.0in x 2.5in
• Materials: Neoprene, Boltaron, TPE

This holster works well if you prioritize all-day wear without sacrificing concealment or firearm stability.

Shapeshift 4.0 Holster

The Shapeshift 4.0 for Glock 17 excels in both comfort and concealability with its innovative design features. A soft CoolVent neoprene base enhances breathability and prevents irritation against your skin during long hours of use. The stainless-steel core adds structural support, maintaining shape integrity even under pressure from movement or tight clothing.

Full trigger guard protection eliminates accidental discharge risks, while reduced printing keeps your Glock discreetly hidden beneath most outfits.

Its ability to bend naturally against your body improves overall fit for users carrying at positions like appendix or hip carry.

• Weight: 9.8 oz
• Dimensions: 9.5in x 8.25in x 2.0in
• Materials: Neoprene, TPE

If you're looking for enhanced flexibility combined with safety features like full trigger coverage, this option delivers excellent performance.

Chest Holsters

Chest holsters for Glock 17 provide easy access to your firearm during outdoor activities such as hiking or hunting where waistline carry may be impractical due to gear interference or mobility constraints. These holsters position the firearm securely across your chest using adjustable straps that accommodate different torso sizes and layers of clothing.

Choose this style if quick access in rugged environments outweighs concealment concerns.

Hook & Loop Holsters

Hook & loop holsters for Glock 17 offer versatile mounting solutions by attaching directly to surfaces like vehicle panels or bags equipped with compatible hook-and-loop fields (e.g., MOLLE systems). This setup enables secure storage of your Glock within reach when traditional waistband carry isn't feasible.

These work best for off-body setups requiring adaptable placement options without compromising firearm stability.

Belly Band Holsters

Belly band holsters for Glock 17 wrap around your midsection using elastic material to hold the Glock snugly against your body under casual attire like gym clothes or dresses where belt loops aren't available. Many models include compartments for spare magazines or small personal items alongside the gun slot.

Opt for belly bands if maximum concealment under non-traditional outfits is essential but ensure proper trigger guard coverage when selecting one.

OWB Holsters

Outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters for Glock 17 excel in open-carry scenarios by providing faster draw speeds compared to IWB designs due to their external positioning along the beltline. Materials like Kydex enhance retention reliability while maintaining consistent reholstering ease over time despite frequent use.

Use OWB styles when accessibility takes precedence over deep concealment requirements—ideal for range days or law enforcement duties involving visible sidearms.

Drop Leg Holsters

Drop leg holsters for Glock 17 attach securely via thigh straps below the hip level, allowing unrestricted upper-body movement during tactical applications such as training drills or active-duty operations requiring rapid deployment capabilities paired with heavy gear loads above the waistline area.

Select drop leg configurations specifically tailored toward high-mobility tasks demanding immediate weapon availability regardless of additional equipment weight distribution factors involved elsewhere on duty rigs/clothing setups.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best holster for your Glock 17 is a decision that requires careful consideration of your specific needs and preferences. By focusing on factors like fit, material, retention, and carry position, you can ensure both safety and comfort in any situation.

Take the time to evaluate how you’ll use your holster daily and explore options that align with your lifestyle. A well-suited holster not only enhances accessibility but also provides peace of mind knowing your firearm is secure and ready when needed.

Explore Top-Rated Glock 17 Holsters

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of holster for a Glock 17?

The best holster depends on your needs. For concealed carry, an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster offers excellent concealment. For open carry or range use, outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters provide easy access. Consider factors like comfort, retention, and lifestyle when choosing.

Why is holster fit important for the Glock 17?

A proper fit ensures safety by covering the trigger guard to prevent accidental discharge. It also enhances comfort, keeps the firearm secure during movement, and improves accessibility for quick draws.

What materials are ideal for Glock 17 holsters?

Kydex is durable and retains its shape well, making it great for everyday carry. Leather offers traditional aesthetics but may lose retention over time. Hybrid options with neoprene backing provide added comfort for extended wear.

How does retention affect carrying a Glock 17?

Retention secures the firearm in place during movement. Adjustable retention systems allow you to customize grip strength, balancing security with draw speed based on your preferences and activities.

Can I use a Glock 17 holster with accessories like optics or lights?

Yes, many modern holsters are designed to accommodate attachments such as weapon lights or optics. Look for modular designs that support these features without compromising fit or functionality.

Which carry position works best for a Glock 17?

Carry positions depend on personal preference and activity level. Appendix carry allows quick access but may be uncomfortable when sitting. OWB is ideal for open carry, while IWB provides better concealment.

Are adjustable cant angles necessary in a Glock 17 holster?

Adjustable cant angles improve versatility by allowing you to optimize draw speed and comfort based on your preferred carry position and daily activities.

What should I prioritize: draw speed or retention?

It depends on your needs. For concealed carry, prioritize retention to ensure safety. For tactical scenarios or range use, faster draw speeds might take precedence over maximum retention.

Can one holster work for both concealed and open carry?

Some versatile designs like hybrid or modular holsters can work for both purposes by offering adjustable features such as cant angle or belt attachment options suitable for different situations.