Dive mounting pockets are an essential piece of kit for divers who want to carry extra gear safely and conveniently while exploring underwater environments. As the weather warms and dive conditions become more inviting, both recreational and technical divers often find themselves in need of additional storage solutions for their accessories—whether that’s a spare mask, a set of wetnotes, a backup light, or a delayed surface marker buoy (DSMB) and spool. Mounting pockets are designed to be added to wetsuits, drysuits, BCDs, or even worn as part of tech shorts, offering a customizable approach to gear management. The most popular style is the thigh pocket, positioned on the outside of the leg where your hand naturally falls, making it easy to access contents even while managing buoyancy or navigating with gloves on. For sidemount divers or those who prefer to keep the sides of their legs clear, butt pouches and dropdown BCD pockets offer alternative storage options. All of these pockets are engineered to withstand the rigors of saltwater, repeated use, and the occasional bump against rocky entry points or boat ladders.
When choosing a dive mounting pocket, consider how you’ll attach it and the type of diving you plan to do. Permanent glue-on or sew-on pockets are favored by technical and cave divers who want a streamlined, secure solution for their neoprene or drysuit. These require careful placement—ideally marked while wearing your suit—before being fixed with a strong adhesive and left under pressure to cure fully. Strap-on pockets offer flexibility, allowing you to add storage only when needed and remove it between dives. Tech shorts, with their integrated pockets, are a popular choice for those who switch between wetsuits or want to avoid modifying their exposure suit. Look for features like bellows construction for expandable storage, secure Velcro closures that are easy to operate with thick gloves, and internal D-rings or bungee loops for clipping off sensitive items like backup torches or slates. Accessibility is key: a well-placed pocket shouldn’t interfere with your finning, and you should be able to reach the bottom easily, even in low visibility or surge. Weight management is another important factor—heavy items can pull down on your suit, so suspenders or a snug fit help keep everything comfortable and secure during your dive.
Dive mounting pockets also make thoughtful gifts for the diver in your life, especially as diving season picks up and new adventures beckon. They’re a practical upgrade for experienced divers who want to streamline their configuration, as well as for newer divers looking to expand their gear setup. Whether preparing for a summer of shore dives, boat trips, or travel to new destinations, a quality mounting pocket helps keep essential items organized and within reach. For a broader look at the range of storage solutions available, including styles and attachment methods, visit our comprehensive
Diving Gear Pockets guide. Equipping yourself with the right pocket not only enhances safety and convenience but also frees you to focus on the wonders beneath the surface—whether you’re navigating a kelp forest, exploring a wreck, or simply enjoying a relaxed reef dive.
