An equipment carrier configured to secure at least one piece of equipment to a user, and corresponding method. The equipment carrier includes at least one equipment holder configured to be secured to the user. The equipment holder includes an engaging portion configured to receive the equipment. At least one tether includes a first portion attached to the equipment and a second portion attached to the user at a second location offset from the engaging portion. The at least one tether applies a tension force on the equipment to retain the equipment with the engaging portion of the equipment holder. The tension force is negligible when the equipment is disengaged from the equipment holder and positioned near the second location.