The heat of summer is upon us! Much of the United States is catching some of its hottest temps of the year and while we all want to get out, enjoy the weather, recreate, and catch a righteous tan hopefully that doesn't mean we are leaving our sidearm at home. While you might not want to hit the beach or the park in a pair of thick Levi jeans or even stiff cargo shorts, carrying your tricked-out, Tyrant-enhanced Glock should still be the center of mind because you obviously want to protect yourself, family, and loved ones. If the heat, light clothing, and the ability to confidently carry sounds like an impassable conundrum we are here to tell you that you have more options than you think.
If you feel like bringing back some fashion from the late '80s or early '90s, fanny packs are actually making a strong, fashionable comeback for concealed carriers. Not only are they making them in rad color schemes like they once were for groovy times at the beach, but they also are producing some with specific concealed carry pockets in more subtle, neutral tones for everyday life. When comparing the draw-stroke time from a fanny pack to AIWB (Appendix Inside-the-Waistband) it is extremely close; a difference of only tenths of seconds once you get trained. So, there isn't a huge disadvantage to carrying a firearm in a fanny pack (unless you're self-conscious of judging eyes from kids - they don't understand the cool factor of fanny packs anyways).
Another way you can carry throughout the dog days of summer is with a dedicated concealed carry athletic short. One company that makes such a product is Arrowhead Tactical. They produce a short that has a hidden, integrated belt so you have the necessary rigidity to support a handgun. Simultaneously, this is an actual athletic short so it is light, has breathable material, and it is not branded with large firearm logos so it is inconspicuous as well. The last thing you want is an athletic short that accomplishes the impossible of concealed carry in the dead of summer that is a dead giveaway to you carrying. Concealed carry should always afford you the element of surprise and the silent discretion as to whether you want to present your firearm or not. This short allows for exactly that.
So, while summertime might be a more difficult season to carry with our lack of clothing and garments to cover a carry piece, that does not mean we should give up or stop carrying. Just like in the cold weather months we have different options for carrying we likewise have separate options for the hotter ones. Keep it in mind for the next barbeque you hit up with your family or that next workout you do at the park. Until next time, continually check out our blog, join our newsletter, and watch the website for new and exciting updates! As always, let us know all of your thoughts in the Comments below. We love it when you participate in our articles and keep the conversation going!
