What Goes in Your Thigh Pockets?
Thigh pockets are a practical way to carry small but important gear during a dive. Whether they are built into your wetsuit or drysuit, or added with pocket shorts, they keep essentials secure and within reach without cluttering your BCD. If you are newer to diving, pockets become valuable once you carry more than the basics.
Left vs. Right Pocket Setup
Organizing by side speeds up retrieval and reduces fumbling. A simple plan that you follow on every dive makes each item easy to find by feel and keeps your trim clean and predictable.
Why Use Thigh Pockets?
- Easy access: You can reach them even while in horizontal trim
- Streamlined setup: No dangling gear, fewer snags
- Secure storage: Items stay put during long or challenging dives
- Consistent organization: You always know where things are
A Simple Left vs. Right Pocket Setup
You do not need much to use your pockets effectively. For most recreational dives, this balanced layout works well and keeps the working items on the left with backups on the right.
| Left Pocket (Primary Use) |
Right Pocket (Less Used / Backup Items) |
|---|---|
| SMB with spool (pre-attached) | Wetnotes or a small slate |
| Whistle or signal mirror | Spare double ender or small backup light |
What If You Do Not Have Pockets?
Many recreational BCDs lack functional pockets or they are hard to use underwater. If that sounds familiar, consider one of these options to add usable storage without changing your whole kit.
- Neoprene pocket shorts: Worn over your wetsuit or swim trunks
- Add-on pockets: Some wetsuits and drysuits allow aftermarket pockets
The Dive Otter Setup (and Why)
As your diving expands, a few extra items can improve readiness without adding clutter. The list below mirrors a simple working side and a backup side so you can find what you need by touch.
Left Pocket - Working Pocket
- SMB with attached Delrin spool - Fast access item, pre-attached and ready to deploy
- Whistle and mirror - Quick to grab for surface signaling
Right Pocket - Backup / Emergency Pocket
- Backup mask (not in a case) - Folded flat and placed carefully for rare but critical needs
- Wetnotes or slate - Handy for plans, bearings, or underwater communication
A Few Tips
- Pre-stage gear so it is easy to find by feel, even with gloves
- Do not overload your pockets; carry what you need and nothing more
- Practice retrieval during safety stops or shallow dives
- Stick to your system because consistency builds confidence