[1] The broad surface area of the "paddle" and the material from which it is made use friction to prevent the holster from being pulled up and away when the handgun is drawn.
Firearm wearers such as plainclothes detectives who frequently need to move between vehicles, offices, and field work may employ paddle holsters as they allow them to conveniently remove the holster and firearm when sitting and then just as easily replace it when needed.
A typical handgun holster that attaches to the user via a belt does not offer the same flexibility requiring the user to remove his/her belt in order to remove the holster.
A second disadvantage is that paddle holsters tend to be larger in size which reduces the ability to conceal them easily.
Some paddle holsters have adjustable cant and tilt allowing the "paddle" to remain upright and shaped to the hip while the angle of the draw can be adjusted to suit the user's preference.