Choosing the right concealed carry jacket for your winter needs is significant. It should be warm and comfortable and allow transparent access to a sidearm in self-defense situations. The fabric shouldn’t snag or catch on accessories like car keys or gun magazines. It should also be oversized to accommodate an IWB or OWB holster without pinching.
Comfort
As with any winter gear, you will want concealed carry coats and jackets that fit comfortably. Always do up on sizes, as a good fit can directly impact how well you can wear the coat and form muscle memory when drawing from your concealed carry holster.
Many concealment-ready winter jackets are designed to look like regular clothing so you can feel comfortable and safe simultaneously. Some look more like a shirt than a rugged tactical jacket and can conceal a firearm and your wallet, maps, passport, and other essentials.
Some also feature adjustable cuffs so you can comfortably draw your firearm without letting the cold in or your sleeves get in the way of your draw. The jacket is also built with quality zippers and Prym snaps and is tapered for a classic professional look.
Concealment
Concealed carry coats are designed with ambidextrous pockets to help keep your weapon hidden and accessible. These pockets close with a snap to ensure your firearm stays secure and are deep enough for comfortable use. They are also lined for trigger guard protection.
A concealed carry jacket is typically cut on the larger side to accommodate your firearm without creating a noticeable bulge in your waistline. It should be thick enough to provide warmth but not so thick that it’s bulky and uncomfortable.
Choosing the right coat is critical when wearing a concealment holster in cold weather. The extra layers you wear will slow your access to the firearm, so finding a jacket that will allow you to draw and fire in a dangerous situation quickly is essential. Ideally, choose one that has a square edge front. This will be less likely to flap open and reveal your holster.
Style
You’ll likely wear your winter jacket for most of your time outdoors, so it should offer you convenient access to your concealed carry weapon. Look for a coat that doesn’t obstruct your firearm or cause it to get caught on accessories such as holsters and belts.
A concealed-carry-friendly jacket should also allow you to form muscle memory for your draw position without snagging or pinching on the arms and shoulders. Look for ambidextrous pockets and zippers that can be easily accessed as the weather changes.
Before purchasing a jacket online, consult the sizing chart and take note of the measurements listed. Most companies will include torso, chest measurements, and arm length. Consider those when ordering your coat if a brand offers different sizing options, such as petite or plus. A good rule of thumb is to go one size up when purchasing a coat, which will help you avoid an uncomfortable fit and give you room to layer your clothing.
Storage
In addition to keeping you warm, the best concealed carry coats offer plenty of storage space for your firearm and EDC gear. You want pockets that close securely and accommodate your IWB or OWB holsters. Look for a few extra features, such as music pockets with ports or water-resistant zips and security pockets positioned along a seam or under a flap.
For the coldest environments, choose a jacket with premium insulation. This helps with weather resistance and warmth, but the type of insulation will impact how lightweight and compact the jacket is when packed. It will also affect how the jacket performs during winter activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.
