How to Choose the Best Glock 22 Holster

Whether you’re shopping for a holster for a new Glock 22 or looking to refine your current carry setup, the goal is the same: finding a holster that fits this proven, duty‑ready handgun properly.

So, what should you consider when selecting a holster for the Glock 22?

The best holster for a Glock 22 should mirror the pistol’s practical design by staying lightweight, concealable where possible, and purpose‑built. Focus on durable construction, adjustable features, and dependable safety elements that allow you to carry your G22 with confidence.

Before you can narrow down the right holster for your needs, it helps to understand how the Glock 22 is built and intended to be used. Knowing the firearm’s design makes it easier to choose a holster that supports both comfort and performance.

About the Glock 22

The Glock 22 Gen5 is widely known for its reliability and long‑standing role as a duty‑ready handgun. It has been trusted by professionals and civilian shooters alike for years. That reputation comes from Glock’s consistent approach to durability, simple operation, and performance that holds up under hard use. For gun owners looking for a proven full‑size pistol for personal defense, the Glock 22 remains a well‑established option.

The Glock 22’s full‑size design supports strong control, predictable recoil management, and consistent handling during extended use. Gen5 updates were introduced to improve overall function without changing what shooters already trust about the platform. The result is a handgun that feels familiar but refined, making it well-suited for home defense, range training, and defensive carry setups where reliability matters most.

From a technical standpoint, the Glock 22 is chambered in .40 S&W and ships with a standard 15‑round magazine. It features a 4.49‑inch Glock Marksman Barrel, which is designed to enhance accuracy. The pistol uses Glock’s Safe Action® System and features an ambidextrous slide stop lever and a flared magazine well to support smoother reloads. With a weight of just over 28 ounces and a full‑size frame, the Glock 22 balances capacity, control, and performance in a single platform. Understanding these features can help you decide how the G22 fits into your carry or defense plan and what type of holster setup will support it best.

 Glock 22 Specs

What to Look for in a Glock 22 Holster

Now that you have a clearer picture of how the Glock 22 is built and what it’s designed to do, the next step is finding a holster that pairs well with this capable, full‑size handgun.

Holster Type

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when choosing a holster is how you plan to wear it. Your carry position directly affects the type of holster that will work best for you.

As a full‑size pistol commonly used in duty and defensive roles, the Glock 22 is most often carried in positions that support its larger frame, like outside the waistband. Carry positions like strong‑side, typically around the 3–5 o’clock area, are common choices, while appendix carry may be less practical for some due to the pistol’s size.

This decision matters because not every holster is built for every carry position. For instance, the Vedder Holsters LightTuck® is a versatile option that can be worn in multiple positions, while other designs, such as the SideTuck®, are purpose‑built for appendix carry in the 1–2 o’clock position.

Once you’ve settled on your preferred carry position, you can quickly narrow your options by removing any holsters that don’t support that setup. From there, it’s easier to focus on details like materials and available customization. If you’re still unsure which carry position works best for you, our “Concealed Carry Positions: Ultimate Guide” article is a helpful place to start.

Material

Holsters are most commonly made from three materials: leather, Kydex, and nylon.

Although they are widely available, nylon holsters are generally not recommended for concealed carry. They are far less durable than other options and tend to collapse once the firearm is removed, which can make reholstering more difficult and potentially unsafe.

Leather holsters are another popular concealed carry option and are well known for their comfort and longevity. That said, leather can become sticky when exposed to sweat, moisture, or humid conditions. While leather holds up well over time, it does not match the overall toughness of Kydex and will typically wear out sooner.

Kydex is the most commonly used holster material today, and for good reason. It offers excellent durability, strong concealment, and a high level of adjustability.

Kydex holsters are heat‑molded to a specific firearm, creating a secure, precise fit for the Glock 22. Even though Kydex is a thermoplastic, these holsters remain comfortable for everyday wear.

If you want the strength of Kydex paired with the comfort of leather, a hybrid holster may be the right choice. Hybrid designs combine a rigid Kydex shell with a leather backing to deliver the advantages of both materials.

You can check out our entire selection of Kydex and hybrid holsters here to learn more about the benefits of each. 

Adjustability

For pistols like the Glock 22 that are often carried regularly, adjustability plays a major role in both comfort and concealment.

Adjustable retention is one of the most valuable features to look for. It allows you to fine‑tune how firmly the holster holds your firearm, helping you balance draw speed with security while also supporting safe carry.

Adjustable cant is another important feature. This lets you angle the firearm forward or backward to find the best balance of comfort, concealment, and accessibility. Many Vedder holsters offer up to 30 degrees of forward and reverse cant, which exceeds the adjustment range of many holsters that only tilt one direction or offer limited movement.

Lastly, adjustable ride height allows you to control how high or low the Glock 22 sits on your waist. Whether you prefer deeper concealment or a higher carry position, this adjustment makes it easier to tailor your setup to your preference.

Customization 

No two carry setups are exactly alike. Every shooter has different preferences, requirements, and style, and with the wide range of aftermarket firearm accessories available today, it’s important to choose a holster that can support those variations.

All Vedder Holsters are handcrafted to order and built to match your specific firearm. You’ll find a wide selection of Kydex color options, and our holsters feature full sight channels with the ability to be cut for many common lights, lasers, and optics.

In addition, our holsters can be configured for both right‑ and left‑handed users and ordered with different belt clip sizes or optional add‑ons, such as a holster claw. Certain models also offer options like sweat shields and combat cuts.

If you have a firearm modification that isn’t listed on our site, you can always reach out to us with the details. We’ll work with you to determine whether we can build a holster that fits your setup.

Design

There’s more to a holster’s design than appearance, color options, or adjustable components. Several design elements also serve as important safety features and should never be overlooked.

The most critical part of any holster design is a precise fit to your firearm. With a well‑made Kydex holster, the Glock 22 should seat cleanly and securely, often with a noticeable click when it locks into place. This confirms the handgun is properly retained and won’t shift or come loose during movement.

Vedder’s Glock 22 holsters are molded for a highly accurate fit, leaving virtually no unwanted movement once the pistol is holstered. Poorly fitted holsters are not only unsafe, but they can also cause unnecessary wear on your firearm over time.

Just as important as proper fit is a well‑designed trigger guard and strong belt clips. Without durable clips, a holster may shift on your belt or even come loose during daily wear. A quality trigger guard should fully enclose the Glock 22’s trigger with minimal visible opening. If the trigger area is exposed, foreign objects could enter the holster and contact the trigger, which creates an obvious safety concern.

All Vedder Holsters are built with full trigger guard coverage, helping ensure nothing can access the trigger while the firearm is holstered.

Comfort

Firearms like the Glock 22 are often worn for extended periods, so comfort should be a top priority when choosing a holster. If a holster isn’t comfortable, it’s far less likely to be worn consistently.

As a full‑size handgun, the Glock 22 can still be carried comfortably with the right holster design. That said, certain features can noticeably improve overall comfort.

Hybrid holsters are often considered the most comfortable option. The leather backing flexes against the body and helps distribute the weight of the firearm, which can make a larger pistol, like the Glock 22, feel more stable and easier to wear throughout the day.

For those who prefer an all‑Kydex setup, holsters that contact the body at two points can offer similar weight distribution. Even single‑point contact designs can be comfortable when they include adjustable features, allowing you to fine‑tune positioning until you find the right balance of comfort and concealment.

For added comfort with a Kydex holster such as the LightTuck®, the Vedder HolsterPad adds a cushioned barrier between the holster and your body. It can be trimmed to fit your holster or left longer to wrap around the muzzle end, helping prevent pressure against the leg during appendix carry.

Lastly, while the Glock 22 is commonly carried inside the waistband, some shooters find outside the waistband carry to be even more comfortable. If you’re having trouble finding a comfortable inside the waistband setup for your Glock 22, an outside the waistband option may be worth considering.

Concealment

Concealment is a key consideration for any everyday carry holster. After all, discreet carry is the goal, and it becomes even more important when carrying a larger handgun like the Glock 22.

The Glock 22 is a full‑size pistol, which means concealment takes more planning compared to compact or subcompact models. Its larger frame and longer grip require a holster that minimizes bulk and keeps the firearm tight to the body. Pairing the Glock 22 with an oversized, awkward, or snag‑prone holster only makes concealment more difficult than it needs to be.

So, what actually makes a holster easier to conceal?

One of the first things to evaluate is the holster shell itself. To reduce printing, the shell should have a smooth, snag‑free profile and remain as thin as possible without giving up durability. A streamlined shell helps the holster blend into your body rather than stand out under clothing.

The clip design also plays a major role in concealment. Many holsters on the market use bulky plastic clips that can create visible printing. A thinner steel clip is a better option. Our patented Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip is made from smooth spring steel and sits flat against the belt, making it easier to hide under everyday clothing, including a basic T‑shirt.

Optional concealment accessories can further improve how the Glock 22 carries. Add‑ons like pancake clips, holster claws, and holster wedges help pull the firearm closer to the body, reducing grip printing and improving overall concealment.

Warranty

While features like concealability, comfort, and adjustability are critical when choosing a new holster, it’s equally important not to overlook the product’s warranty.

A solid warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong with your holster, it can be repaired or replaced. It also reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality and durability of their product.

At Vedder Holsters, every holster comes with a 30‑day risk‑free trial and a lifetime guarantee. This ensures that if you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, or if an issue arises down the line, you’re fully protected. You can learn more about our warranty policy here. 

Best Glock 22 Holster Options

Now that you’re familiar with the key features to look for in a quality holster, it’s time to get straight to the recommendations. Below are our picks for the best concealed carry holster options for the Glock 22 available today.

Best IWB Holster for Glock 22

No two shooters are the same, and concealed carry needs can vary widely. With that in mind, we’ve broken down some of the top holster options based on different preferences and carry styles.

Starting with the overall best inside the waistband holster for the Glock 22: the Vedder Holsters LightTuck®. This Kydex holster is highly versatile and can be worn in nearly any carry position. It offers fully adjustable retention, three ride height settings, and up to 30 degrees of forward and reverse cant. Lightweight, tuckable, and equipped with our patented Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip, the LightTuck® is a dependable option for inside the waistband carry.

If comfort is your top priority, a hybrid holster may be the better route. The Vedder Holsters RapidTuck® and ComfortTuck® are both designed for carry in the 3–5 o’clock position and feature a premium cowhide or horsehide leather backing.

These holsters are built to gradually conform to your waistline, providing excellent comfort and reliable concealment. The RapidTuck® also includes adjustable ride height and cant, allowing you to fine‑tune the fit to your preference.

Another solid choice for the Glock 22 is the Vedder ProTuck®. This hybrid holster blends the comfort of the ComfortTuck® with a dual‑point contact design and a contoured shape that naturally follows your body. It is intended for 3–5 o’clock carry and includes fully adjustable retention.

Lastly, for those who want to carry a spare magazine alongside their firearm, the Vedder SideTuck® is worth a look. This holster delivers the same discreet profile as the LightTuck® while adding an attached, fully adjustable custom Kydex magazine carrier. It also includes a claw attachment, adjustable retention, and a two‑point contact design for added stability and concealment.

Best Glock 22 Holster: OWB

For those who prefer outside the waistband carry, selecting the right holster is crucial for comfort, accessibility, and security. Here are our top picks for Glock 22 OWB holsters based on different carry preferences.

One of the best outside the waistband options for the Glock 22 is the Vedder Holsters LightDraw®. This Kydex holster is designed to be both functional and comfortable. It features adjustable retention and a double‑sided, fully reinforced shell that supports one‑handed reholstering with ease.

If you’re seeking a hybrid OWB option, the Vedder Quick Draw is an excellent choice. It combines a premium leather backing with two built-in belt loops for secure attachment. Designed for comfort and quick access, this holster works well in most outside the waistband positions.

For those who prefer a paddle-style holster, the Vedder ProDraw® is a top contender. It offers the most adjustability among OWB options, including adjustable retention and up to 15 degrees of forward and reverse cant. Lightweight and equipped with Vedder’s OWB Paddle Clip, the ProDraw® is easy to put on, remove, and wear comfortably throughout the day.

Best Chest Holster for a Glock 22

Thanks to the Glock 22’s full‑size frame and common use during outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and hiking, chest holsters are a popular carry option for this handgun. One of the top chest holsters available for the Glock 22 is the EverTrek® Chest Holster.

This holster features a molded Kydex shell paired with a fully adjustable mil‑spec nylon harness. It includes three quick‑release buckles along with adjustable retention, ride height, and cant, making it well-suited for long hikes, harsh weather, and frequent use. Noise‑free, corrosion‑resistant hardware helps keep your setup discreet and reliable in the field.

Wide straps and a breathable mesh shoulder pad allow the EverTrek® to remain comfortable during all‑day wear, while three points of contact keep the holster secure in a wide range of conditions. A flexible elastic backing lets the holster move naturally with your body, and serrated buckles make it easy to clip and unclip, even when wearing gloves. 

Summary

Whether you prefer inside the waistband or outside the waistband carry, choosing a holster that fits your carry style is essential.

Ultimately, the best Glock 22 concealed carry holster is the one that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Take the time to consider the features that matter most, compare your options, and make a well-informed decision based on what you’ve learned about selecting a quality holster.

Looking for a reliable, custom-fit holster? Visit our Holsters by Gun Model page to find Kydex holsters tailored to your firearm. Plus, explore our Resources Page for gear recommendations, concealed carry guides, and exclusive content to elevate your carry system.