AREN LITE VS. AREN ELITE IWB

Both the AREN LITE and the AREN ELITE are designed for inside-the-waistband carry, offering excellent concealment. They're both crafted from durable .08” Kydex, known for its rigidity, precision molding, and excellent retention. However, their subtle differences cater to slightly different preferences and needs. 

Which IWB holster option is right for you? Let's break it down.  

 

You can check out our video comparison as well HERE

 

AREN LITE: MINIMALIST ALL POSITION

The AREN LITE, as its name suggests, embodies a more streamlined and minimalist approach. It was designed as an “all around” IWB with a focus on being adaptable to all carry positions. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable IWB holster that do not carry in the appendix position.  

SINGLE CLIP DESIGN

The AREN LITE is the much-needed update to our “Signature IWB” holster line that we released in 2020 – which utilizes a single, top mounted belt clip. A single clip holster like the LITE typically functions better in positions such as strong side (3-5 o'clock) or even small of the back. With added holster CANT, the holster can be angled to allow carrying and drawing from these positions more natural.  Unlike the AREN ELITE, the LITE can be carried in all carry positions – including appendix if desired. The LITE comes with 3 belt clip options: FOMI, DCC MONOBLOCK & ULTITUCK. 

 

MINIMALIST WING DESIGN

The AREN LITE was designed to reduce the overall holster form factor and designing a new holster wing to accommodate that was a must. On each LITE holster, we have created a mounting spot for the wing tucked as close as possible to the firearms trigger guard (or light body, if light bearing). By doing this, we can drastically reduce the overall width of the holster and with our contour cuts of the holster shell we can create the smallest full coverage (covers the entirety of the firearm) IWB. The AREN LITE wing was designed to be removed if desired. Carrying in the 3-5 o'clock positions can sometimes be uncomfortable with a wing on the holster so it can be removed entirely, and by design the holster will function the exact same.  

The AREN LITE comes with 2 different sizes of wings to customize carry and fit. 

 

FlatPoint BELT CLIP MOUNT

On a top mounted IWB, the belt clip rests directly on the body of the holster. Every firearm has a different shape, different controls, and the gun itself is never a flat surface. Because of this, the holster belt clip can sometimes sit weird – where one side of it may be raised because it is resting on a cut out for the slide stop etc. On the AREN LITE we have added a mount directly underneath where the belt clip sits to create a totally flat surface for the belt clip to rest. This allows 100% contact of the belt clip in most positions, which increases retention of the holster on your beltline.  

 

COST-EFFECTIVE

Generally, the AREN LITE will be a more budget-friendly option compared to the AREN ELITE, making it an attractive choice for those looking for quality without as many bells and whistles. 

 

STANDARD LITE FEATURES

 The AREN LITE comes standard with all the features below: 

  • Adjustable Click-Retention - Tighten or loosen the draw of the holster with a satisfying "click". 
  • Adjustable Holster Ride Height - Raise or lower where the holster sits on your waist. 
  • Adjustable Holster Cant - Tilt the holster forward or backward (15 degrees) to adjust draw angle. 
  • Optic Cut - Deep optic cut to accommodate all current red dots on the market.  
  • Suppressor Height Sights - Raised sight channel to accommodate raised suppressor height sights.
  • Open Muzzle - End of holster is open to fit small comps, threaded barrels and allows debris to fall through.  
  • Minimalist Concealment Wing - Tucks the firearm grip into your stomach to prevent printing (includes 2 sizes). 
  • Reholstering Ledge - Front of holster is raised to allow a clear, safe and smoother reholstering.  
  • FlatPoint Wedge Mount - The back of the holster includes a slightly raised flat platform to create a nice smooth mounting surface for an aftermarket wedge. 
  • FlatPoint Belt Clip Mount - Slightly raised flat platform underneath the belt clip to maintain 100% contact of the belt clip and the holster at all times to improve clip retention on the waistline.

AREN ELITE: AIWB PERFECTION 

The AREN ELITE is our dedicated appendix IWB and was designed for those who desire a more adjustable and customizable approach to their daily carry. 

 

 

ENHANCED MODULARITY AND ADJUSTABILITY

While both holsters offer some adjustability, the ELITE boasts a wider range of features and customizable options. For starters, it is a dual clip holster design whereas the LITE model is a single clip design. The dual clips add stability to the holster and help prevent movement on the beltline. The ELITE also allows more nuanced (and a wider range of) adjustments for ride height and cant of the holster. 

 

APPENDIX WING DESIGN

Although both holsters offer a concealment wing, the ELITE wing was designed specifically with appendix concealment in mind. It is larger (in height and width) than the LITE wing, which contributes to the concealment capabilities of the ELITE model. Unlike traditional holster wings, it is mounted to the side of the holster right underneath the grip and is a little bit wider to help distribute the weight of the firearm. This helps rotate the firearms grip into the body to prevent printing; and although the wing itself does not have ride height adjustments, it was specifically designed so that no matter where you adjust the belt clips the wing retains over 90% coverage of the belt for optimal rotation. The holster and wing were designed in tandem, and the wing is not made to be removed.  

The ELITE comes with 2 different sizes of wings to customize carry and fit.  

 

ENGIMA COMPATIBLE

The AREN ELITE was designed to be used with all current versions of the PHLster Enigma. Although not the “typical” mounting solution, the ELITE can be mounted to the Enigma utilizing the belt clip mounts on the holster. With our strategic appendix wing design, you can attach the AREN ELITE to the Enigma and have full use of the wing, and full use of our adjustable retention. PHLster says that only holsters that utilize a specific kind of wing, like the ModWing or Raven Concealment wing, are compatible, but we are proud to say that is not the case! If you do want to use the AREN ELITE with the Enigma, a separate small hardware kit is required and can be purchased on our website.  

 

STANDARD ELITE FEATURES

The AREN ELITE comes standard with all the features below: 

  • Adjustable Click-Retention - Tighten or loosen the draw of the holster with a satisfying "click". 
  • Adjustable Holster Ride Height - Raise or lower where the holster sits on your waist. 
  • Adjustable Holster Cant - Tilt the holster forward or backward to adjust draw angle. 
  • Optic Cut - Deep optic cut to accommodate all current red dots on the market.  
  • Suppressor Height Sights - Raised sight channel to accommodate raised suppressor height sights 
  • Open Muzzle - End of holster is open to fit small comps, threaded barrels and allows debris to fall through.  
  • Concealment Wing - Tucks the firearm grip into your stomach to prevent printing.  
  • Reholstering Ledge - Front of holster is raised to allow a clear, safe and smoother reholstering.  
  • Trigger Guard Supports - Added rigidity and strength helps prevent cracking or breakage in the most common area of failure in any holster - the trigger guard. 
  • FlatPoint Wedge Mount- The back of the holster includes a slightly raised flat platform to create a nice smooth mounting surface for an aftermarket wedge. 
  • PHLster Enigma Compatible - Fully compatible with all 4 current versions of Enigma 

WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

The choice between the AREN ELITE and the AREN LITE boils down to your specific carry setup and preferences: 

Choose the AREN ELITE if: 

  • You carry in the appendix position 

  • You desire maximum adjustability for your holster. 

  • You want to utilize the PHLster Enigma 

 

Choose the AREN LITE if: 

  • You carry 3-6 o’oclock, or want flexibility to carry in multiple positions. 

  • You prefer a more minimalist, “simple” holster ready to go out of the box. 

  • You prioritize simplicity and comfort for everyday concealed carry. 

  • You're looking for a cost-effective yet high-quality IWB solution. 

 

No matter which AREN model you choose, our commitment to quality Kydex construction and precise fit is second to none. Consider your specific needs, assess your current (or planned) firearm setup, and you'll be well on your way to selecting the perfect concealed companion. If you have any questions, need advice or insight on anything firearm / concealed carry related – reach out to our CS team at info@hillikeholsterco.com 

Knowledge