Hey there, fellow dive enthusiast! Ever find yourself midway through a dive wishing for just a bit more storage space? You’re not alone. We’ve all experienced those moments of fumbling with gear or struggling to keep things within reach. That’s where drysuit pockets come to the rescue, giving you easy access to tools, safety gear, and anything else you might need underwater.
In this post, we’ll dive into the different types of drysuit pockets and closure systems, helping you stay organised and stress-free on your next dive. Ready to upgrade your setup? Let’s get started! And if you’re curious to learn more about drysuits in general, check out our Ultimate Drysuit Guide.
What Are the Benefits of Drysuit Pockets?
Before we dive (pun intended) into the specifics, let’s talk about why drysuit pockets can be a game changer:
- Convenience: Having essential items like a dive slate, extra mask, or a spare SMB (Surface Marker Buoy) within arm’s reach can save you time and hassle.
- Safety: Quick access to safety gear like a dive knife or cutting tool could be crucial in an emergency.
- Organisation: Pockets help keep your gear secure and organised, so don’t end up looking like a christmas tree with accessories dangling everywhere.
- Versatility: Depending on the pocket type, you can carry more than just the basics – think wet notes, backup lights, or even a camera.
When it comes to drysuit pockets, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Different divers have different needs, so let’s look at some of the most popular options.
Bellow (Cargo) Pockets
Bellow pockets, often known as cargo pockets, are a go-to choice in the diving world—spacious, expandable, and highly practical. These pockets are a favourite among divers who need to carry a lot of gear, whether for technical dives or simply to be prepared for anything. They often feature multiple compartments and bungee loops to keep everything organised.
Pros:
- Capacity: Bellow pockets can hold a surprising amount of gear, which is great for longer, more complex dives or carrying things like wet notes, backup lights, or a camera.
- Organisation: The extra compartments and bungee loops mean you can organise your gear however you like, reducing the chance of losing something important.
- Accessibility: Usually easy to open and close, even with thick gloves.
Cons:
- Size: These pockets can be quite large and can feel cumbersome, so if you’re trying to keep a sleek profile, they might not be the best choice.
- Weight distribution: Overloading them, especially if you only have one pocket, can affect your balance and buoyancy.
Small and Flat Pockets
Next, let’s dive into small and flat pockets. These low-profile pockets are normally made out of neoprene and are great for divers who like a streamlined setup. They sit flush against your suit, which helps reduce drag and keeps your gear close at hand.
Pros:
- Streamlined: Less bulk means less drag, helping you stay streamlined in the water.
- Minimalist: Small and flat pockets are perfect for carrying just the essentials, such as a small torch, spare mask, or dive slate.
- Less likely to snag: Because they’re low-profile, they’re less likely to get caught on anything during your dive. This can be a big plus in environments where there are tight spaces or potential hazards.
Cons:
- Limited capacity: Small and Flat pockets aren’t designed for carrying a lot of gear, which can be a downside if you need extra equipment for longer dives. You might find yourself wishing you had a bit more storage space.
- Harder to access: The smaller space can make it tricky to retrieve items quickly, especially when wearing gloves.
In summary, small and flat pockets are perfect for divers who prefer a simple approach and want to keep things light. However, if you need to carry more gear, you might want to consider other options.
Different Types of Drysuit Pocket Closures
Now that we’ve covered the main pocket styles, let’s talk about closures. The type of closure your drysuit pocket uses can significantly impact how easy it is to access your gear and how secure it stays during your dive.
- Velcro Closures:
- Pros: Velcro is probably the most common closure type you’ll find. It’s easy to use, even with gloves on, and provides quick access to your gear. If you need to get into your pocket in a hurry, Velcro is your friend.
- Cons: Over time, Velcro can wear out, especially in saltwater conditions, making it less reliable. It can also get clogged with sand or debris, which reduces its sticking power.
- Zipper Closures:
- Pros: Zippers offer a more secure closure, ensuring that nothing falls out of your pockets, even during the most active dives. They’re also less prone to wear compared to Velcro.
- Cons: Zippers can be harder to operate with gloves, especially thick ones. They can also get jammed if not properly maintained, and a stuck zipper can be a real pain when you need something quickly.
- Buckles:
- Pros: Buckles are extremely secure and durable, making them a great choice for divers carrying heavy or valuable gear. They’re less likely to wear out than Velcro or zippers.
- Cons: Buckles can be tricky to open with gloves on, and they’re not as quick to access as Velcro. They also add a bit of bulk to your pocket.
- Combination Closures:
- Pros: Some pockets use a combination of closures, like Velcro with a zipper or a buckle for extra security. This gives you the best of both worlds—quick access and peace of mind that your gear is secure.
Cons: These can be a bit more complex to operate, requiring more time and coordination, especially if you’re dealing with multiple layers of closures.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Drysuit Pockets
So, how do you decide which pocket option is right for you? Here are a few things to think about:
- Diving Style: Are you doing technical or recreational dives that require lots of gear, or do you prefer minimal gear? Your diving style will heavily influence the type and size of pocket you need.
- Accessibility: How easy is it to reach your pockets during a dive? If you struggle to access them, they’re not doing you much good. This is especially important if you wear gloves on your dives.
- Comfort: Think about how the pockets will feel while you’re diving. If they’re bulky or not placed well, they can get in the way and feel cumbersome.
How to Find the Right Drysuit Pocket
Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the perfect drysuit pocket:
- Assess Your Needs: Think about what you usually carry on dives and how much space you’ll need. Are you a minimalist, or do you like to be prepared for anything?
- Try Before You Buy: When you’re at your local dive shop, take a moment to fit the accessories you usually take on a dive into the pockets you’re considering. If you normally wear gloves, try opening and closing the pockets while wearing them to see how easy they are to use.
- Consider Maintenance: Remember that zippers will need care to stay functional, and Velcro might need replacing after a lot of use.
- Think About the Future: If you plan on getting more into technical diving or doing longer dives, consider a pocket with more capacity, even if you don’t need it right now.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice with Drysuit Pockets
Choosing the right drysuit pocket might seem like a small decision, but it can really enhance your diving experience. Remember, the goal is to keep your gear accessible, organised, and out of the way when you’re diving.
So, next time you’re prepping for a dive, take a moment to consider your pocket options. It’s one of those details that can make a big difference.
Have a favourite pocket style or closure type? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear what works for you! And if you’re on the hunt for more diving tips, check out our Tops Tips for Drysuit Maintenance, Care and Storage . Happy diving!