What Goes in Your Thigh Pockets?
Left vs. Right Pocket Setup
Thigh pockets are a simple, practical way to carry important gear during a dive. Whether they're built into your wetsuit or drysuit—or added using pocket shorts—they help you keep essential items secure and easy to reach without cluttering your BCD.
If you're newer to diving, you may not be using thigh pockets yet—but they’re a great upgrade once you start carrying more than just the basics.
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, even during long or challenging dives
- Consistent organization: You always know where things are—no guesswork
A Simple Left vs. Right Pocket Setup
You don’t need a ton of gear to use your pockets effectively. For most recreational dives, this simple setup works well:
| 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 Don’t Have Pockets?
Many recreational BCDs don’t have functional pockets—or they’re hard to use when you’re underwater. If that sounds familiar, consider:
- Neoprene pocket shorts: Worn over your wetsuit or swim trunks
- Add-on pockets: Some wetsuits and drysuits allow for aftermarket pockets
- Upgrading over time: You don’t need everything all at once—build your setup gradually
The Dive Otter’s Setup (and Why)
As you dive more, you might start carrying a bit more gear—not to overload yourself, but to stay prepared. Here’s what I carry and why:
Left Pocket – Working Pocket
- SMB with attached Delrin spool - This is the one item I always want fast access to so it’s pre-attached and ready to deploy
- 1–2 spare double enders - Useful for securing gear, clipping items temporarily, or problem-solving
- Whistle & Mirror - Easy to grab if I need to signal at the surface
Right Pocket – Backup / Emergency Pocket
- Backup mask (not in a case) - I don’t expect to need this—but if I lose my mask, it’s critical. No case needed; folded flat and placed carefully
- Wetnotes or slate - Useful for dive plans, compass bearings, or communicating underwater. Rarely used, but extremely helpful when needed
- Backup spool - only when the dive calls for it
This setup helps me stay streamlined and consistent. I always know where my gear is, and I can access what I need without fumbling.
A Few Tips
- Pre-stage gear so it’s easy to find by feel (even with gloves)
- Don’t overload your pockets—carry what you need, nothing more
- Practice retrieval on safety stops or shallow dives
- Stick to your system—consistency builds confidence