In the world of concealed carry, comfort and concealment go hand in hand. The choice of a reliable holster and belt is crucial—but those alone don’t always solve the common issue many everyday carriers face: discomfort. That’s where Gun holster pillow comparison come into play. These small, soft wedges are attached to the inside of the holster to provide extra comfort, better concealment, and improved stability.
If you’re new to the idea or looking to upgrade your setup, this in-depth gun holster pillow comparison will help you understand the options available and how to choose the best one for your specific needs. We’ll specifically focus on two of the top contenders in this space: the Mastermind Tactics Pillow and the Cloudster Pillow, both available at CloudsterPillow.com.
What Is a Gun Holster Pillow?
A gun holster pillow, also known as a holster wedge, comfort pad, or tactical carry pillow, is a soft foam attachment applied to the body-facing side of a holster. Its primary purposes are:
Comfort: It prevents the hard edges of a Kydex holster from digging into the abdomen or pelvis.
Concealment: By pushing the muzzle end of the holster outward, the grip of the firearm is pushed inward, reducing printing.
Stability: The pad fills gaps between your body and holster, reducing holster shifting while walking, sitting, or bending.
While holster pillows are particularly popular among AIWB (Appendix Inside the Waistband) users, they are also beneficial for any IWB carry method.
Why You Need a Holster Comfort Pad
Without a holster pillow, carrying a firearm can lead to:
Red marks or bruising from holster pressure
Increased printing under fitted shirts
Frequent holster shifting throughout the day
Temptation to remove the holster when driving or sitting for extended periods
A well-designed holster wedge solves all these problems without interfering with your draw or adding unnecessary bulk.
Gun Holster Pillow Comparison: Mastermind vs Cloudster
Let’s break down the differences between the two most popular holster pillows—Mastermind Tactics Pillow and the Cloudster Pillow—to help you make an informed decision.
1. Comfort & Material
Mastermind Tactics Pillow:
Made of high-density closed-cell foam, it provides moderate cushioning. It’s firm but still comfortable and holds its shape over time.
Cloudster Pillow:
Built with premium memory foam that adapts to your body shape, offering superior softness and comfort, especially for long wear. It features a breathable, antimicrobial cover to enhance ventilation.
Winner: Cloudster — Better long-term comfort and pressure relief.
2. Concealment Enhancement
Both pillows improve concealment by pushing the holster bottom outward, which causes the grip to tuck in. However:
Mastermind: Provides slight grip rotation, excellent for subcompact pistols.
Cloudster: Offers greater rotation and coverage, better suited for larger firearms or users with leaner body types where printing is more likely.
Winner: Cloudster — More effective at reducing printing, especially with full-size firearms.
3. Profile and Bulk
Mastermind: Very slim and discreet. Ideal for tight pants or fitted clothing.
Cloudster: Slightly thicker due to the memory foam but still low-profile enough for everyday carry.
Winner: Mastermind — Slimmer profile, better for minimalist carry setups.
4. Durability
Mastermind: Highly durable foam that resists sweat and retains shape with regular use.
Cloudster: Memory foam has a longer wear lifespan and the outer cover resists moisture and bacteria buildup.
Winner: Cloudster — Built for long-term, heavy-duty use.
5. Attachment Method
Mastermind: Attaches with peel-and-stick adhesive or optional Velcro.
Cloudster: Includes strong dual-layer adhesive and Velcro for a more secure, adjustable hold.
Winner: Cloudster — More secure and versatile attachment options.
6. Pricing and Value
Mastermind: Budget-friendly and ideal for new users or those on a tight budget.
Cloudster: Premium price, but the added comfort and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious carriers.
Winner: Depends on budget
If price is your top concern, go with Mastermind. If you’re looking for long-term value, Cloudster is worth the investment.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
Feature Mastermind Tactics Pillow Cloudster Pillow
Material High-density foam Premium memory foam
Comfort Moderate Maximum
Concealment Aid Good Excellent
Thickness Slim profile Medium profile
Durability Very Good Excellent
Attachment Adhesive/Velcro Strong adhesive + Velcro
Breathability Moderate High
Ideal For Casual/occasional carry Daily/professional carry
Price Range Affordable Premium
— Daniel S., firearm instructor
Who Should Choose Which Holster Pillow?
Choose Mastermind if:
You’re new to concealed carry or holster wedges
You want a discreet, ultra-thin comfort upgrade
You carry subcompact or compact pistols
Budget is a concern
Choose Cloudster if:
You carry daily for long hours
You use full-size or heavier handguns
Comfort is your top priority
You need breathable, durable materials
Final Thoughts: Comfort Is Not Optional
In the world of EDC (everyday carry), the more comfortable your setup, the more likely you are to stick with it. A gun holster pillow might seem like a small addition, but it can make a big difference in your overall carry experience—especially for appendix carriers.
Whether you opt for the minimalist Mastermind Tactics Pillow or invest in the Cloudster Pillow for premium comfort, both are excellent choices that provide noticeable improvements in comfort, concealment, and stability.
