Benefits of Leather vs Nylon vs ??? material for holsters?

[duucfho]

I'm new to concealed carry, and had a question regarding holster materials. I went and picked up an Uncle Mike's holster for my J-frame just to get me by for now.

I tried out a Galco IWB as well as Galco In-Pocket holster. They felt bulky and a little stiff, though I'm sure that it softens a bit with use.

After looking around on the forums, most everyone agrees that you can't beat a good quality leather holster. But no one ever really mentions a reason behind that statement. If you guys can enlighten me, that'd be great. Why leather?

Is it more durable over many years? Are molded fits to a specific gun better than the "fits any small gun with 2" barrel" sizing? Does it attract less dirt and lint? Does it handle sweat issues better? I'm willing to spend money on one, I just don't know why I would yet.

Thanks!

 

[Oldfalguy]

Personnel choice

I am no expert on holster but I have found leather to be the material of choice for me- Why, I think they are stiffer and easier to re-holster, less bulky ( figure they have steel in them)I feel they are easier on the finish but can't prove it. I have several but by and large they are either Bianchi or Galco. I have a small Colt Pony Lite in a Galco pocket holster in my front pocket and really like it- I use paddle holsters for both auto and revolvers Colt Pythons to PPK. I like paddle because with the hot weather here in Texas sometimes you have to lose the jacket no matter how light weight it is and we do not have open carry and I do not want to walk into a restaurant with even an empty holster and taking a belt on and off is a pain- ergo just pull it off- wide stiff belt helps with all holsters, so I am having a belt/paddle holster being made for mP7M8 but until then I stick with the Colt Pony Lite and leave the glock 17 under my floor mat.

Mark