Drysuit pockets

Seaskin drysuits do not have pockets fitted as standard, they must be added as option if required. Having no pockets is a good option if you can stow any additional gear you require in your BC or clipped of on Dee rings. It gives a lightweight streamlined suit. Pockets can be added to suits later but it’s never as good a finish as getting them sewn or glued on during the build process. Most people chose to future proof their suits by getting pockets fitted even if they are not carrying much gear at this point in their diving journey. Getting a bellows pocket that folds down flat when empty is good compromise for many recreational scenic divers. Technical diving generally demands two large pockets. It is possible to have more than one pocket mounted on one thigh, but it can get very crowded particularly on suits with small legs.

 

The most popular pocket position is on the outside seams, this gives great access standing, sitting and when prone diving. They are less noticeable when finning and seem to be the most streamlined position. They do not get in the way when re-entering a rib. Access problems start when carry stage bottles or using a sidemount rig.

 

Carrying large or multiple stage cylinders usually means having to have forward facing pockets, so they can still be accessed during the dive. A pocket in this position is hard to open sitting down and be slightly less comfortable when finning when loaded. Getting back into ribs with full pockets can also be awkward. It is usually possible to fit a forward facing pocket and a pee valve on the same thigh although it may sometimes be necessary to rotate the pocket around the leg slightly.

 

The compromise between the side and forward positions are the Half and Half options.

 

Forward Facing – when the pocket is centred on the front leg panel (let’s call this 0 degree)

Outside Seam – pocket is centred on the seam that runs down the outside of the leg (let’s call this 90 degree)

Half and Half, Forward – positioned at the mid-point between “Forward Facing” and “Outside Seam” (let’s call this 45 degree)

Half and Half, Backward – pocket rotated around the leg so 75% of it is on the back leg panel and 25% on the front panel (let’s call this 135 degree)

 

Half and Half, Forward placement gives reasonable access with sidemounts, works well with back gas rigs and closed circuit.

 

Half and Half, Backward placement gives good access with sidemounts although they are somewhat unsighted. They can make sitting down a problem when filled with gear.

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