Picking the right holster for your Glock 19 is super important. The Glock 19 is one of the most popular handguns among police officers and regular folks who carry concealed. So, having a good holster makes a big difference in comfort, safety, and ease of use. This guide will walk you through different holster types and key things to consider when choosing one.

Why the Right Holster Matters

Your handgun holster plays a big role in keeping your weapon secure yet accessible. An uncomfortable or poorly made holster can discourage you from carrying. It also introduces safety issues that put you at risk.

The right holster makes carrying easy and routine. Quality designs completely cover the trigger to prevent accidental firing. They also securely hold your pistol during even intense activity. Despite locking in the gun, top holsters allow fast, smooth drawing when needed. The perfect pick moves naturally with your body without any pinching or chafing. When you find that ideal fit, you'll hardly notice you have it on.

So take the time to select a holster made for your specific Glock 19 model. Look for one that maximizes comfort and safety through trigger coverage and retention. With the proper holster, carrying your G19 simply becomes part of your everyday routine. You’ll have confidence that your personal defense tool is close at hand if situations demand it. Yet it stays protected from unintended snags or bumps. Invest in a holster built for your needs and make carrying as effortless as getting dressed.

Types of Glock 19 Holsters

With tons of options on the market, it helps to understand the main holster categories for your G19:

Inside Waistband (IWB) Holsters  

As the name suggests, IWB holsters slip right inside your waistband to put the bulk of the gun below your clothing. This allows you to cover the firearm more easily for concealed carry. Quality IWBs use materials like Kydex or leather that mold to the individual body shape for stability and a custom fit. 

Top IWB models, including some that are considered 'hybrid' holsters, also utilize features like claw attachments to improve concealment further. Hybrid holsters combine different materials, typically a mix of Kydex and leather, to offer the benefits of both: the durability and retention of Kydex with the comfort of leather.

The main advantages of inside waistband holsters are easier concealment and great comfort when designed properly. Just be aware that the close-to-the-body position can slow your draw stroke slightly compared to external carry. 

It's important to consider the levels of retention each holster offers, which is typically listed in the product specifications. For example, Level 1 Retention (Passive Retention) relies on friction alone to secure the firearm, suitable for civilian use where quick draw is essential. Level 2 Retention adds an active device like a thumb break for greater security, appropriate for open carry. Level 3 and Level 4 Retentions include multiple active devices, offering enhanced security for law enforcement or high-risk environments.

Outside Waistband (OWB) Holsters

OWB holsters mount to the exterior of your belt or pants via loops or clips. This makes your Glock more rapidly accessible with a faster draw stroke. OWB carry also feels more comfortable to some by distributing weight across the entire belt area rather than one spot. The tradeoff is that OWB holsters don't conceal quite as easily under light garments. But they still work nicely to cover with a garment over, like a jacket.

Shoulder Holsters  

As popularized by movie detectives and bodyguards, shoulder holsters suspend your Glock 19 from harness straps across your shoulders and torso. This distributes the weight for comfortable all-day carry without relying solely on the waist belt. Shoulder rigs keep the gun easily accessible under a jacket. However, accessing and returning the gun to a shoulder holster is more challenging than a waist carry position.

Ankle Holsters

Strapping a compact holster to your ankle provides a handy hiding spot for a backup Glock 19. Ankle carry keeps the small semi-auto within reach if your primary weapon is lost or compromised. Just be aware that drawing from the ankle requires bending or kneeling down much slower than other holster spots. Ankle rigs are also not tremendously comfortable for 24/7 wear. But they provide an option for deep concealment in a pinch.

For a wide selection of quality holsters, visit Pro Armory's Holsters Collection.

Review of Top Glock 19 Holsters

After researching the testing of tons of holsters, from various testers, these were some of the hands down favorites.

1. Hidden Hybrid Holsters

Hidden Hybrid Holsters merge the rigidness of Kydex with the comfort of premium leather for an exceptional concealed carry experience. This small Pennsylvania company uses high-quality Amish leather sourced from the local community on its handcrafted holsters. The leather provides a supple, molded fit that conforms naturally to the body for unparalleled comfort. 

Meanwhile, the rigid Kydex shell delivers rugged protection and stability for the Glock itself. Together, these hybrid materials create a holster optimized for all-day carry. The Hidden Hybrid adapts seamlessly to your motions without sagging or slipping. Strategically placed suede panels wick moisture and further reduce irritation on the skin. This holster feels like an organic extension of your body thanks to its custom design elements.

With its flexible clips and spacers, the Hidden Hybrid also allows extensive customization for your optimal draw angle and weapon position. The modular nature even lets you switch from IWB to OWB carry with ease. For those who want a meticulously fitted, comfortable holster handmade in America, Hidden Hybrid is a premier choice. 

Features:

• Amish leather backer for premium comfort
• Single or double clip models
• Suede liner prevents skin irritation  

Pros:

• Leather backer prevents pinching and hot spots
• Fits lights and lasers too
• Tuckable for deep concealment

Cons: 

• More expensive than basic Kydex 
• Hybrids can wear faster than all-Kydex

2. Rounded Gear IWB Kydex Holster 

While premium holsters boast impressive features, Rounded Gear proves that simplicity and value can also create an outstanding concealed carry rig. Their minimalist IWB holster uses .08" thermoformed Kydex to balance sturdiness with a trim profile. It slips discreetly inside the waistband, hugging the body without excess bulk. The uncomplicated IWB design allows efficient on-body concealment for faster access without sweeping jacket panels out of the way.

Despite its sparse features, the Rounded Gear IWB holster excels at the fundamentals. The molded Kydex shell retains its shape indefinitely while providing a custom fit. Smooth draw strokes come courtesy of the polished edges that protect both the gun and the body. Rounded Gear also includes spacers to tweak both ride height and cant angle to your natural stance. While basic, these thoughtful touches enhance daily carry without driving up cost.

For new concealed carriers or those on a strict budget, Rounded Gear offers great value for those looking for a basic but reliable holster. Their keen understanding of holster fundamentals allows this small company to provide exceptional waistband carry rigs at near-impulse buy prices. While it may lack premium accents, this pared down IWB has everything needed for secure, accessible everyday carry.

Features:

• Molded from .08′′ black Kydex  
• Minimalist IWB design
• Easy adjust retention screws

Pros: 

• Great bang for your buck
• Decent comfort for all-day carry
• Good starter holster for new gun owners

Cons:

• May want a claw accessory for AIWB mode
• Basic design lacks premium features   

3. Tenicor Velo Holster

The Tenicor Velo has earned a reputation as one of the finest appendix-carry holsters money can buy. This minimalist rig was engineered from scratch to serve the needs of a modern defensive shooter. Tenicor obsessed over every contour and angle to shape the Velo into the ultimate AIWB companion.  

The first thing you'll notice about the Velo is how it seems to vanish once installed on the body. There's no excess material or bulk hampering your movement or printing through clothing. The Velo's streamlined profile hugs tight as a second skin. Anatomical curves and strategic texturing keep the holster planted securely, even during active wear. Yet the signature formula Kydex material adjusts its retention pressure perfectly as you draw or re-holster your Glock.

Despite its petite footprint, the Velo doesn't skimp on weapon security. The trigger guard and safety levers remain fully shielded at all times. Integrated rail spacing accommodates accessories like lights or lasers. You can even hear an audible "click" as the pistol locks into place. This ensures your G19 remains secure when you most need it.

Tenicor cuts no corners on speed and access either. The Velo rides high and tight for ideal drawing geometry. Just dip your grip hand naturally, and the Glock practically jumps into firing position. It's the fastest sub-second first shot we've tested from concealment gear. Tenicor offers the Velo in specific Glock 19 configurations to really optimize that lightning-quick deployment.

Made entirely in the USA, the Tenicor Velo costs a bit more than generic holsters. But if you're serious about safe, comfortable appendix carry, this rig is worth every penny. 

Features:

• Anatomical shape hugs the body tightly
• Minimal material for maximum comfort
• Audible retention lock confirmation

Pros:  

• Super fast draw stroke
• Nearly zero bulk or printing  
• Excellent trigger guard protection

Cons:

• Expensive but worth it
• Long break-in period

4. PHLster Floodlight 

PHLster burst onto the scene a few years back with an innovative holster dubbed the Floodlight. This aptly-named rig revolutionized the way shooters integrate weapon-mounted lights into everyday carry. The Floodlight's modular design accepts a variety of compact & full-size pistol frames. Its signature feature set revolves around seamlessly accommodating massive light units like the SureFire X300U.

The Floodlight's adjustable fit lets you fine tune retention and trigger coverage to your specific gun and light combo. This helps tailor drawing ease versus security on an individual basis. Robust shielding also guarantees proper trigger finger placement while operating the light activation switches. Such attention to detail and user customization is a PHLster hallmark. 

Another standout attribute of the Floodlight is versatility. Its robust construction holds up equally well for IWB or OWB carry. A pair of heavy-duty pull-the-dot loops keep the holster stable on the belt. Or you can swap in discreet soft loops or tuckable struts for deep concealment. This adaptability suits the Floodlight to range days, home defense, or concealed carry duty. An optional sight channel accommodates low-profile optics, too.

PHLster didn't neglect speed and weapon control either. The Floodlight's sight channel and undercut trigger guard encourage an ultra-high grip on the gun. This creates ideal drawing ergonomics for fast target acquisition. Extended controls like flared mag wells are integrated smoothly as well. The audible retention lock click reassures your pistol is secured until needed.

Available for a wide variety of weapon lights and pistols, the PHLster Floodlight commands a premium price. But its versatility, innovative modularity, and sturdy construction make this an elite holster choice. If you run a weapon light on your Glock, the Floodlight is a superb investment all around.

Features:

• Accommodates WML weapon lights
• Interchangeable components 
• Optic sight channel standard

Pros:   

• Great retention and durability
• Versatile carry options
• Allows red dot sight mounting

Cons:

• Pricey but built to last 
• Larger than typical IWB holsters

5. Galco Classic Lite Shoulder System  

The Galco Classic Lite shoulder rig transports us back to the golden era of private detectives and gumshoes. As seen in classic Miami Vice style, this premium leather harness perfectly captures old-school shoulder holster flair. Don't let its retro vibe fool you, though the Classic Lite offers ample modern function as well.

Wide-set shoulder straps distribute the weight of a full-size steel Glock 19 with ease. The double-stitched harness sports ventilated padding to tame sweltering heat under even the hottest sport coat. Premium center-cut steerhide leather molds comfortably to the upper body with use. And Galco's master craftsmen break the gun-side edges for a smooth, non-chafing draw stroke every time.

The Classic Lite's ace up its sleeve is versatility. An integrated double mag pouch provides quick access to reload your G19 on the fly. The spare ammo weight balances the holster assembly for superior all-day comfort as well. Southpaws rejoice, too unlike vintage rigs, Galco's design works smoothly for left or right-handed shooters. 

Now, it's only fair to point out that the Classic Lite's signature sweeping shoulder draw requires some practice. Under light-cover garments, this old-school rig prints more than compact IWB gear. But if you pine for the stylish functionality of an old-time shoulder holster, the Galco Classic Lite delivers in spades.

Features:

• Center cut steerhide leather
• Ambidextrous design
• Double mag pouch

Pros:

• Iconic shoulder holster style
• Spreads weight nice and evenly 
• Roomy enough for spare ammo

Cons: 

• Slow, sweeping draw stroke
• Bulky under lighter garments

6. Gould & Goodrich B803 Three Slot Pancake Holster

The Gould & Goodrich B803 Three Slot Pancake holster stands as a testament to old world leathercraft. For over four decades, G&G has hand-assembled these gorgeous leather rigs entirely in the USA. The B803 exemplifies why G&G earns such devotion from wheelgun aficionados and history buffs alike. 

Each B803 starts life as premium American leather. G&G master technicians carefully form, trim, and finish the holsters by hand. This personalized attention enables a curated fit and tailored molding to your individual firearm. In fact, final custom tuning tailors retention and draw stroke to match your preferences. Such artisanal craftsmanship shines through in every crease and contour.

Despite the old-west styling, the B803 brings plenty of modern flexibility, too. The signature three-slot design accepts belt widths from 1.25 to 1.75 inches effortlessly. It also enables straight up, straight down, or FBI raked forward carry angles. So you can really dial in your personal draw stroke efficiency. The open top facilitates slick reholstering as well.

For well over 40 years, the Gould & Goodrich Three Slot Pancake has served leather connoisseurs worldwide. Its bespoke construction and matchless style withstand the test of time. If you seek a handsome leather companion for your classic Glock that ages gracefully, this holster tips its hat perfectly.

Features:

• Vegetable-tanned glove leather  
• Allows 15° forward or straight draw
• Retention screw tuned to user

Pros: 

• High degree of customization
• Timeless old west styling
• Buttery soft leather  

Cons:

• Leather requires more TLC
• Bulkier than synthetic rigs

7. Crossbreed SuperTuck Deluxe

The SuperTuck Deluxe from Crossbreed stands out as one of the most comfortable inside-the-waistband holsters available. Crossbreed perfected their signature hybrid design that combines molded Kydex with a premium leather backing. This ingenious pairing takes advantage of each material’s strengths for an unparalleled carry experience.

The SuperTuck’s formed Kydex shell delivers excellent retention and trigger guard security for the Glock 19. Customized to each gun model, the Kydex adds no bulk yet keeps the pistol locked in place during wear. Robust belt clips anchor the rig to provide a stable platform for drawing and re-holstering. 

Where the SuperTuck truly shines is its padded leather backing. Crossbreed understands the waistband directly contacts sensitive skin areas. So, a breathable yet supportive buffer zone makes all-day carry feasible and painless. The SuperTuck’s leather panel distributes weight evenly across the belt line to eliminate pressure points. Generous venting and anti-slip fabric manage moisture and keep the holster positioned correctly.

Together, the Kydex and leather comprise an extremely durable and comfortable carry system. The SuperTuck can be worn while keeping an untucked cover garment over it. An adjustable cant allows for perfecting the grip angle for smooth draws, too. The overall design focuses relentlessly on stability, ease of access, and wearing comfort during everyday routines.

Available for compact, full-size, and tactical Glock 19 setups, the Crossbreed SuperTuck offers outstanding quality for the price. While no holster escapes break-in time as materials mold to your body, this one gets top marks for all-day comfort. For G19 owners seeking an ultra-wearable hybrid rig with versatile concealment, the SuperTuck belongs on your short list.

Features: 

• Combines Kydex and leather 
• Adjustable ride height and cant
• Available for light/laser models

Pros:  

• One of the most comfortable IWBs
• Tuckable with untucked shirt
• Good value for the quality

Cons:  

• Break-in period with leather backing
• Hybrid may wear faster than all-Kydex

How to Choose the Best Glock 19 Holster

Selecting the ideal holster for your needs involves weighing several key factors:

Comfort Matters: If a holster is uncomfortable, you probably won't wear it. Try out different holsters by wearing them while you do your usual daily stuff like sitting, walking, bending, and driving. Notice if any part of the holster pokes, rubs, or pinches as you move. If you feel uncomfortable right away, don't just settle for it. Being comfortable with your holster means you'll carry it more consistently.

Retention and Protection: Also, undo any locks on the holster and turn it upside down with your G19 inside. The gun should stay securely in place. Make sure that the holster covers the Glock's trigger guard completely. There shouldn't be any space for anything to slip inside and touch the trigger. On holsters with passive retention, you can adjust how tight the grip is with retention screws.

Material and Durability: Kydex is tough and can handle daily wear and tear, but it might start to poke after a while. Leather fits more comfortably but needs regular care. Hybrid holsters combine both materials, offering both durability and comfort. Choose the material that best suits your need for comfort versus long-lasting wear.

Concealment vs Access: The best concealed carry holsters fit tightly against the body, which might slow down your draw a bit. Holsters meant for open carry allow quicker access but might show more under clothes. Think about how you usually carry—hidden or visible—and choose a holster style that works best for that method.

Price Considerations: You can find a quality holster for under $50 if needed. But exceptional comfort, performance, and durability come at a premium. Holsters cost around $100+ and feature high-end materials and molding. Set your budget, and then compare construction quality in that range.

Conclusion  

There's no one "best holster" for all people. Prioritize safety, comfort, and performance as you evaluate different Glock 19 rigs. Try some on to get a feel for what works on your body. And invest in quality gear that meets your specific carry needs. With an excellent holster, your G19 will be a trusted companion for years to come!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most comfortable Glock 19 holster?

Hybrid models like the Crossbreed SuperTuck combine rigid Kydex with soft leather backers for exceptional comfort during all-day waistband carry.

Which Glock 19 holster is the most concealable? 

Slim-profile appendix carry (AIWB) rigs like the Tenicor Velo disappear under clothing best. They hug the body tightly with minimal material and prints.

Is leather or Kydex better for a Glock 19 holster?

Kydex is lower maintenance and stands up to more abuse over time. But leather molds more comfortably to the body. Each material has tradeoffs to weigh.

Should I get an IWB or OWB holster for my Glock 19?

IWB conceals easier under clothing but is slower to draw from. OWB offers faster access but prints more. Base your choice on carry needs and local laws. 

What is the best Glock 19 holster for women?

Holsters like the Can Can Concealment Hip Hugger cater specifically to the female form. But many unisex models work very well, too, with slight adjustments.

How much does a good Glock 19 holster cost?

You can find a totally adequate holster for around $50 or less. Exceptionally durable and comfortable models with premium features run $100+. Set your budget and look for quality construction.