Every year the category for women in shooting sports continues to grow, and this year was no exception. During SHOT Show this year, I searched for the latest concealed carry holsters and other gear for women. As a result, I was able to put together a list of great gear for the female shooter in 2023. Hit the range or street in style this year with these great products.
Concealed Carry Holsters and More for Women from SHOT Show 2023
Versacarry: Compound Custom Essential IWB Holster
Fitting top carry gun models including (but not limited to) the Glock 43, Sig Sauer P365, Taurus GX4, and more, this holster from Versacarry features the best of both worlds. Combining high-end buffalo leather with familiar kydex, the wearer has the ultra-comfortable feel of leather against the skin. Correspondingly, the robust kydex is exposed on the exterior outward-facing portion of this holster.
This holster is meant to be used with a carry belt measuring 1.5 inches wide. Belts are also offered by the brand should you not have one to call your own.
For more information, please visit Versacarry.com.
Dene Adams: Active Bra Holster
The Active Bra Holster is available in three different colors ranging in size from 32B through 42DDD. The Active Bra Holster from Dene Adams allows you to carry your sidearm in clothing that may not typically be considered “carry-friendly.”
Each bra is constructed to include a holster canted at a 45-degree angle. As a result, you can draw your gun smoothly without contorting yourself into an awkward position. Each bra is designed with a racerback design. This makes it ideal for wearing with a variety of tank tops during the summer. Fitting sub-compact and micro-compact guns from a plethora of brands, this solution for active women everywhere is sure to be a hit.
For more information, please visit DeneAdams.com.
Mission First Tactical: Belly Band Holster
Simply calling the MFT Belly Band Holster a holster does not do it justice. It can hold your sidearm, pepper spray, phone, and whatever else you would normally consider part of your everyday carry. This holster is a hit among ladies who opt not to carry a purse while out running errands. Specifically, because it keeps the essentials secure yet seemingly invisible to peering eyes.
Additional storage options include space for a spare magazine and a zippered pocket for your ID and credit card. Fitting waists ranging from 26” through 52” and weighing a mere 16 ounces adding this to your EDC regimen is a no-brainer.
For more information, please visit MissionFirstTactical.com.
Browning 1911-380 Black Label Crushed Orchid Compact
Browning has breathed new life into its small yet mighty 1911 chambered in .380 with a new batch of Cerakote slide finishes. Pictured here is the crushed orchid finish, with other color options, including copper and polar blue. As with the standard 1911-380 Black Label previously released, each handgun comes equipped with fixed 3-dot sights, extended beavertail to help prevent slide bite, skeletonized hammer, and ambidextrous safety control.
For more information, please visit Browning.com.
Ariat: Jackie Square Toe Slipper
Wear them while cleaning your guns indoors or while hanging out around the campfire. Either way, the EVA soles have you covered. The slippers are available in a variety of hides ranging from deer to zebra. These slippers make an excellent gift for you or a friend, with options to satisfy individual tastes.
Impeccable stitching and suede accents elevate the Jackie line of slippers to a new level. Don’t let the fur scare you when it comes to caring for your new kicks, for cleaning is as simple as spot cleaning with a damp cloth and leaving them to air dry.
For more information, please visit Ariat.com.
Bushnell Performance Pro Bobcat Sunglasses
These stylish yet purpose-driven sunglasses from Bushnell are ready for adventures on both land and sea. The polarized lenses are constructed of high-end polycarbonate material and are made to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
The hydro-oleophobic coating on the lenses repels both oil and water. Likewise, the lenses meet stringent ANSI Z87.1 standards when it comes to impact resistance. For this reason, you can rock these on the range as well. Additional features include carefully crafted lenses that not only filter blue light but enhance both depth perception and the appearance of the color itself.
For more information, please visit Bushnell.com.
Premier Body Armor – Female Concealable Armor Vest
The Female Concealable Armor Vest is designed specifically to fit the curves of the female form. This level IIIA vest is available in sizes small through XX- large and features six different adjustment points. As a result, it will fit every body shape from pear to apple, hourglass, and beyond.
The lining of this vest is constructed of a moisture-wicking material keeping you comfortable during wear. The internal plate pocket on this vest ships with a 5”x8” Level IIIA plate, making it out-of-the-box ready. Additional features include stab and slash-resistant exterior, machine washable carrier, and internals made in the good ol’ USA.
For more information, please visit PremierBodyArmor.com.
Garmont: T8 Athena Boots
The Athena boot first launched at this year’s SHOT Show and naturally caught the eye of every lady walking by. As this boot is designed specifically for females, we see features such as a narrower heel, increased arch support, and a shorter Achilles area in the rear.
Lightweight and flexible, this boot moves with the wearer, allowing for comfortable and extended wear. The sole of the Athena boots provides the utmost traction and grip on all terrain. In addition, the water-resistant and abrasion-resistant suede leather upper keeps feet comfortable, dry, and protected.
For more information, please visit GarmontTactical.com.
5.11: Britta Skinny Denim Jean
We are all familiar with range wear such as pants and jackets adorned with pockets galore from 5.11 Tactical. However, we have recently seen a surge of purpose-built yet ultra-comfy options for women hit the shelves. Recently, 5.11 launched an array of jeans. Pictured here are the Britta Skinny Denim Jeans in dark denim (with black also available). They are offered in sizes 0-16 with three different length options: short, regular, and long.
Unlike typical skinny jeans you may have worn in the past, the portion above the knee provides a great amount of flex when moving about, with the area past the knee fitting more along the lines of a typical skinny jean fit. Worn with flats during the summer or paired with boots in the cooler months, these jeans are quickly becoming a fan favorite.
For more information, please visit 511Tactical.com.
5.11: Seacoast Anorak Jacket
We’ve all been to the range or elsewhere when the weather decided to take a turn for the worse, and we were left unprepared, cold, and wet. The Seacoast Anorak Jacket from 5.11 swoops in to save the day and warm those shivering bones.
A fleece-lined interior keeps your core temperature up, while elastic binding at the sleeves prevents an icy draft from sneaking in. Zippers at the sides of this jacket allow for ventilation and easy access to your phone, wallet, or carry gun. Similarly, the quarter zip up front allows for an even further layer of ventilation should you get toasty.
For more information, please visit 511Tactical.com.
Habit: Women’s Cedar Branch Insulated Parka
Nothing can end a dream hunt quicker than shivering in cool, damp weather conditions. Newly released from Habit and launched at this year’s SHOT Show specifically for women is the Cedar Branch Insulated Parka, available in sizes small through 2XL.
Made of a stealthily quiet Tricot fabric, this parka offers features such as scent-blocking technology, waterproof fabric construction, and wrist cuffs with snaps, just to name a few. Paired with the matching bibs of the same pattern, the wearer is now all set to sit and wait for that trophy elk or massive gobbler to cross their path.
For more information, please visit HabitOutdoors.com.
Klean Freak Antibacterial Body Wipes
Ideal for those days when you go straight from the range to the store or to have lunch with a friend. These 11” by 11” antibacterial body wipes are a lifesaver when running home for a quick shower isn’t an option.
These wipes aren’t your everyday body wipe as they include nourishing ingredients. This includes chamomile for soothing your skin, as well as aloe and witch hazel to provide cooling relief. Purchase a box of your favorite scent or a sampler of the six that Klean Freak offers. Available scents are peppermint, citrus, unscented, coconut, lavender, and tea tree.
For more information, please visit KleanFreak.com.
Rounded: Tactical Belt Loop Leggings
Leggings with holster inserts have flooded the market in recent years. So, it’s not every day that a new set catches your eye. Enter stage right the Tactical Belt Loop Leggings from Rounded. Available in sizes small through extra-large and in three styles (grey, black, and black with a pleat) these leggings fit your favorite belt with widths ranging between 1.5 inches to 1.75 inches.
Along the sides, you will find two pockets for your phone or other items you wish to keep handy. The wide waistband and skinny fit complement many body styles, while the poly-spandex blend wicks away moisture. Additionally, it flexes easily during the rigors of exercise while keeping your carry gun secure with your holster of choice.
For more information, please visit RoundedGear.com.
5.11: Frances Fleece Coat
What more can we say about this fleece? It is cozy and warm and pairs nicely with the Britta Skinny Denim Jean and pair of tall brown boots. This coat is available in sizes extra-small through extra-large, as well as offerings in three colorways. Specifically vanilla, volcanic, and roasted barley.
Secure storage options do not escape this fleece as it contains four pockets to secure your everyday gear, such as a wallet, cellphone, and more. Ribbed knit cuffs prevent cool air from sneaking up your sleeves during wear. Correspondingly, the snap-close hood provides yet another layer of protection.
For more information, please visit 511Tactical.com.
Under Armour: Women’s Defender Pant
Under Armour has made a large push in women’s wear in 2023, starting strong with the Women’s Defender Pant. Featuring Under Armour’s patented legacy fit, these pants boast 4-way stretch and a loose straight leg fit.
Reinforced stitching on the enlarged belt loops provides an additional layer of security to your kit. Likewise, the reinforced overlay on the side pockets prevents tearing from knife clips. Another key feature of the Defender pants is the articulated knees allowing optimal stretch during kneeling, running, climbing, and more.
For more information, please visit UnderArmour.com.
Under Armour: Women’s Tac Rival Job Fleece
For women in job fields such as security and the like, the Tac Rival Job Fleece launched this year was designed to meet the career-specific needs of those who wear it. Aside from being made of oh-so-comfortable fleece, if you take a closer look, you will see handy features such as dual mic loops, a deep chest pocket for a handheld radio, and pen pockets along the sleeve.
Additionally, from the elbow down, you will find additional layers of fabric woven in to provide further support and protection. Choose from your choice of colors, including dark navy blue, black, and OD green.
For more information, please visit UnderArmour.com.
Walkers Disruptors
Electronic ear protection is a staple in many shooters range bags. Personally speaking, electronic buds during warmer months are a must, as muffs oftentimes cause too much warmth on the noggin’. Not to mention a headache if you have your hair pulled back in a ponytail.
Walkers packed quite a punch into their newest in-ear offering with features such as five varying ambient sound settings to enhance what matters most, such as hi-frequency boost, voice, and more.
Included with each set are varying sizes of foam/silicone tips fitting all ears and providing varying levels of protection. Battery life is quite extensive with the Disruptors, lasting up to 11 hours when used in ambient mode or up to 6 hours if you happen to be streaming your favorite music or podcast during use.
For more information, please visit WalkersGameEar.com.
Franchi Instinct Sideplate 28-Gauge
We first saw the Franchi Instinct Sideplate shotgun hit gun stores in 2022. But new for this year is the addition of two new chamberings: 28-gauge and 16-gauge. Just like their predecessors, these two new offerings come equipped with a custom-fitted hard case, auto safety, auto ejectors, and barrel selectors so that you may choose over or under.
Lastly, the Instinct Sideplate ships with the following extended chokes: cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, improved modified, and full. Additional features of this scattergun include a red fiber optic front sight, beautiful AA-grade walnut stock, a 14.5-inch length of pull, and more.
For more information, please visit FranchiUSA.com.
Gamo Swarm Magnum Pro Gen3i
Starting off the new year with a third-generation reiteration of the infamous Gamo Swarm. Choose from two different caliber options: .22 and .177. Ready to use right out of the box, the Swarm Magnum Pro Gen3i ships with a Gamo 3-9×40 scope, ready to take aim and become a squirrel’s worst nightmare.
Changes have been made to the stock of this air gun, improving upon comfort and ergonomics. However, it still maintains features we’ve come to know and love, such as the two-stage trigger, IGT gas piston, and Whisper Fusion dampener, just to name a few.
For more information, please visit Gamo.com.
5.11 PT-R Gym Backpack
It is important to stay in shape, especially if you are a competitive shooter. Running to and from various stages as quickly as possible can take its toll. And if you are not in decent shape, it only means precious seconds will be added to your time while you catch your breath.
The PT-R Gym Backpack from 5.11 appears simple from the outside yet has a lot to offer on the inside. Keep your shoes and sweat rag in the ventilated shoe pocket on the exterior of the pack while your belongings inside remain clean and sanitary.
Additional items can be stored on the exterior of the pack with the included (and removable) compression straps. Padded shoulder straps prevent uncomfortable pressure during wear, and the addition of a laptop pocket is perfect for working out on your way into the office or on your way home.
For more information, please visit 511Tactical.com.
