Ankle Holsters

Ankle holsters provide a concealed carry option on the inside of the ankle, most commonly used as a backup carry position for a second smaller pistol or as a primary carry method when other positions are impractical. They are popular with plainclothes law enforcement as a backup to a primary duty gun, and with civilians who need to carry while seated for extended periods where other positions become uncomfortable. Impact Guns carries ankle holsters in neoprene, leather, and Kydex configurations.

Read our full Ankle Holster Buying Guide ↓

Ankle Holster Buying Guide

When Ankle Carry Makes Sense

Ankle carry is rarely a first choice — the draw is slow and requires significant movement to access the gun. It makes sense in specific situations: as a backup carry position for a second gun while seated for long periods (driving, desk work) where the ankle is accessible while other carry positions become compressed; as a primary carry position for plainclothes officers whose clothing or job function makes waist carry impossible; or for armed professionals in formal environments where the ankle is the only practical concealed position. For most defensive applications, waist carry — IWB or OWB — provides faster access and is preferred.

Which Pistols Work for Ankle Carry

Ankle holsters work best with compact and subcompact pistols in the Ruger LCP, Glock 42/43, Sig P365, and similar size range. Full-size pistols are too heavy for ankle carry — the constant weight on the lower leg causes the holster to slide down and become uncomfortable and unstable within hours. The heavier the pistol, the more aggressive the calf strap needs to be to keep the holster in place, and even then full-size guns are impractical. For ankle carry, a light .380 ACP or compact 9mm is the right choice.

Inside Ankle vs. Outside Ankle

Ankle holsters are worn on the inside of the non-dominant ankle — the right ankle for left-handed shooters, the left ankle for right-handed shooters. This positioning allows the dominant hand to reach across and draw the gun naturally. Outside ankle carry places the gun on the outside of the dominant ankle, which some carriers prefer for faster access when seated. Inside ankle carry is the more common convention and what most ankle holsters are designed for.

Comfort and Retention

Ankle holster comfort depends primarily on the padding material and the calf strap. Neoprene-lined holsters (Galco Ankle Glove, Uncle Mike's) provide the most comfortable long-term wear and wick moisture. The calf strap prevents the holster from sliding down during walking — it should be snug but not so tight as to restrict circulation. Many ankle holsters include a thumb break or retention strap over the gun; this slows the draw but adds security during physical activity. For a backup gun worn all day, a neoprene ankle holster with an adjustable calf strap is the most practical choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ankle carry comfortable for all-day use?
With the right holster and a light pistol, ankle carry is manageable for all-day wear. The Galco Ankle Glove with a Ruger LCP is the benchmark comfortable ankle carry setup. Heavier guns become uncomfortable within hours. Wearing pants with a slightly longer inseam helps keep the holster concealed when seated or stepping up.

How do you draw from an ankle holster?
The standard ankle draw: step back with the non-gun-side leg, drop to one knee or crouch, use the non-dominant hand to lift the pant leg while the dominant hand accesses the grip, draw and present. This takes significantly more time than a waist draw — ankle carry is a backup option, not a primary defensive position.

Does Impact Guns carry ankle holsters?
Yes. Impact Guns carries ankle holsters for compact and subcompact pistols at our Ogden and Boise stores and ships nationwide.

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