Looking for the best fishing shorts? Choosing between cargo pockets and deep hand pockets can impact your comfort, mobility, and gear storage. Here’s the breakdown:
- Cargo Pockets: Great for carrying larger items like tackle boxes or tools. Positioned externally, they offer more storage but can be bulky and restrict movement.
- Deep Hand Pockets: Sleeker and easier to access for essentials like phones or keys. They’re less spacious but allow better mobility and reduce bulk.
Quick Tip: If you need to carry a lot of gear, cargo pockets are the way to go. For a lighter, streamlined option, deep hand pockets are ideal. Match your choice to your fishing style for the best experience.
Cargo Pockets: What They Offer and Their Limits
Cargo pockets provide a handy, external storage option for keeping essential fishing gear within reach. Positioned on the sides or back of your shorts, these compartments are designed to hold tools, tackle, and other items that can make your angling experience smoother. Knowing how they're built and their limitations can help you decide if they suit your fishing needs.
How Cargo Pockets Are Built
Cargo pockets come in various styles, including flap-protected or zippered designs, often featuring drainage holes, reinforced linings, and organizational panels. For instance, the AFTCO Deckhand Camo Shorts use overlapping fabric flaps to shield your gear from water and debris, offering extra protection when you're out on the water. On the other hand, zippered closures are favored for their ability to keep items secure, even in rough conditions.
Most cargo pockets are positioned on the thighs to avoid interfering with your natural stride. Others may be located on the back, ideal for storing items you don't need to grab frequently. These thoughtful design elements explain why many anglers prefer cargo pockets for specific fishing scenarios.
Why Anglers Choose Cargo Pockets
The spacious design of cargo pockets makes them perfect for carrying larger items like tackle boxes, tools, and kits without creating awkward, bulky shapes. Unlike deep hand pockets, which are better suited for slim items, cargo pockets can handle heavier gear while maintaining comfort.
"Zippered pockets are ideal for keeping your valuables secure, while cargo pockets provide ample space for tackle boxes, pliers, and other essentials", says DERY.
Some shorts, like Simms Guide Shorts, include zippered cargo pockets tailored for specific tools, such as pliers. Similarly, Pelagic Ocean Master Fishing Shorts feature a "triple threat tool pocket" with reinforced lining to safely store multiple items. These features highlight the practicality of cargo pockets compared to the sleeker, less accommodating design of hand pockets.
Downsides of Cargo Pockets
While cargo pockets are undeniably useful, they aren't without drawbacks. Their bulkier design can sometimes restrict movement or make your shorts feel heavier, especially when fully loaded. Additionally, they tend to retain water longer than integrated pocket designs, which can be inconvenient during fishing trips.
Another issue is line management. The external placement of cargo pockets can create extra surfaces where fishing lines may snag, particularly in environments like surf fishing or dense vegetation. Retrieving specific tools from a packed cargo pocket can also take more time compared to the quick access offered by hand pockets.
Lastly, the external nature of cargo pockets makes them more prone to wear and tear. Sharp objects, thorny plants, or abrasive surfaces can damage the fabric, potentially reducing their durability over time.
Deep Hand Pockets: Design and Performance
Deep hand pockets offer a sleek and practical alternative to the bulkier cargo pocket designs, making them a favorite among anglers who prefer a more streamlined approach. These pockets are seamlessly integrated into fishing shorts, combining comfort with functionality for those constantly on the move.
How Deep Hand Pockets Are Made
Deep hand pockets are built with extra depth compared to the shallow ones you’d find in everyday casual wear. Positioned along the side seam, the opening is designed for effortless access - your hand slides in smoothly without hassle. High-quality Fishing Shorts use durable materials and thoughtful construction to balance usability with longevity. This smart design ensures you can access your essentials easily, all while avoiding unnecessary bulk. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference for anglers.
Benefits of Deep Hand Pockets for Fishing
Deep hand pockets are all about accessibility and simplicity. Whether you’re grabbing your phone to snap a photo of your latest catch or reaching for line cutters, these pockets keep your essentials within easy reach. Their low-profile design minimizes bulk, giving you full freedom of movement - perfect for navigating cramped spaces on a boat or scrambling along rocky shorelines.
"Pockets aren't just about convenience - they provide a secure way to keep essentials like phones, keys, and wallets close at hand. A well-designed pocket offers peace of mind, especially when traveling or navigating busy environments."
Another advantage? They support a minimalist approach to carrying gear. Instead of overloading yourself with external compartments, deep hand pockets encourage you to stick to the essentials, keeping your setup light and agile. For anglers looking for a blend of functionality and comfort, Reel Comfort’s Mens Fishing Shorts are designed with these exact benefits in mind.
Limitations of Deep Hand Pockets
Of course, deep hand pockets aren’t without their downsides. One notable drawback is the lack of secure closures. Without zippers or fasteners, items like phones or keys can slip out during sudden movements, such as bending over or climbing into a boat.
Additionally, their storage capacity is more limited compared to cargo pockets. While they’re perfect for smaller essentials like a phone, multi-tool, or keys, they’re not designed to hold larger items like tackle boxes or bait containers. And when the pockets are fully loaded, items can shift around, making it tricky to retrieve what you need quickly.
How Anglers Pick the Right Pocket Type
The type of pockets you choose - cargo or deep hand pockets - can make a noticeable difference in your fishing experience. Savvy anglers consider their gear needs, fishing conditions, and comfort preferences before deciding on the pocket style that suits their activities best.
Matching Pockets to Fishing Methods
Your fishing method often dictates which pocket style works better for you. If you prioritize ease of movement and a sleek design, deep hand pockets might be your go-to. On the other hand, cargo pockets provide extra space for organizing a variety of tackle and accessories, making them ideal if you need quick access to multiple tools. Weigh your mobility needs against your gear requirements to find the right fit.
Comfort and Movement Considerations
For long fishing trips, comfort and freedom of movement are essential. Deep hand pockets keep items close to your body’s natural center of gravity, which helps distribute weight evenly. This reduces strain during hours of walking, standing, or casting. Plus, they allow for better airflow, making them a great choice for hot summer outings.
Cargo pockets, while offering more storage, can become uncomfortable when heavily loaded, especially with heavier gear. They may create pressure points that can impact your mobility. This is why some anglers turn to innovative designs, like those from Reel Comfort, to strike a balance between storage and comfort.
Reel Comfort's Storage Solutions
Reel Comfort has taken these challenges into account with their thoughtfully designed Fishing shorts. Their shorts feature deep hand pockets that combine easy access with secure storage, solving many of the issues anglers face.
For $59.99, Reel Comfort’s Mens Fishing Shorts offer features like removable thigh pads for rod support, quick-dry water-resistant fabric, four-way stretch panels, and a zippered back pocket for valuables. These shorts are designed to enhance functionality and comfort during your fishing adventures. Check out their Fishing shorts to learn more.
sbb-itb-cb0a783
Side-by-Side: Cargo Pockets vs Deep Hand Pockets
When it comes to choosing between cargo pockets and deep hand pockets, understanding their differences can help you decide which suits your storage needs better. Both options have unique strengths in terms of capacity and organization, and this comparison highlights their key features.
Complete Comparison Chart
| Feature | Cargo Pockets | Deep Hand Pockets |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | Offers ample space for larger and multiple items | Smaller overall capacity |
| Internal Organization | Often includes compartments like magazine slots, knife pockets, straps, bungees, and D‑rings | Usually a single compartment with minimal divisions |
| Expandability | Features 3D or accordion designs for flexibility when filled | Fixed size and shape |
| Typical Contents | Ideal for maps, field dressings, fishing tools, camping gear, and other tackle | Best for carrying essential items |
For more detailed information about these features, check earlier sections of this guide.
Deep hand pockets, on the other hand, are designed with a focus on simplicity and security. While they offer less storage space, they provide a sleek and streamlined solution for carrying everyday essentials.
Reel Comfort’s Fishing shorts strike a balance by combining deep hand pockets with zippered compartments, offering both storage and control. These Mens Fishing Shorts are thoughtfully designed to provide functionality without compromising on a clean, minimalist look.
If you frequently carry larger or more varied items, cargo pockets might be your go-to option. But if you lean towards a simpler, essentials-only approach, deep hand pockets could be the better choice. Explore Reel Comfort’s Fishing shorts to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Conclusion: Choosing What Works for Your Fishing
Deciding between cargo pockets and deep hand pockets boils down to your fishing habits and what you need to carry. Cargo pockets are ideal for anglers who like to keep tools, tackle boxes, and other gear within easy reach, thanks to their generous storage space.
On the other hand, deep hand pockets are perfect for those who prefer a sleeker option, carrying just the essentials without adding extra bulk - great for more active fishing styles.
One thing you can’t overlook is waterproofing. Keeping your gear dry and accessible is a must for any fishing trip. Think about your usual fishing environment when making your choice. Shore fishing often benefits from the convenience of cargo pockets, while boat fishing might lean toward the secure, low-profile design of deep hand pockets. It’s all about finding the right balance between practicality and comfort.
Reel Comfort’s Fishing shorts are designed to meet these needs. They combine deep hand pockets with secure zippered compartments, offering water-resistant fabric and thoughtfully placed storage that doesn’t compromise mobility or comfort. These Mens Fishing Shorts are built to make your time on the water easier, not harder.
Pick the pocket style that suits your fishing routine best. Look for shorts that feature durable materials, a comfortable fit, and storage options that simplify your experience on the water. Check out our Fishing shorts to make your next fishing trip even better.
FAQs
Which is better for fishing shorts: cargo pockets or deep hand pockets?
When deciding between cargo pockets and deep hand pockets, it really comes down to how and where you’re fishing. If you’re in an active fishing situation - constantly moving and needing quick access to tools like pliers or small tackle - deep hand pockets are your go-to. They’re not only convenient for grabbing gear on the fly but also more secure and comfortable when you’re on the move.
On the flip side, cargo pockets shine when you need to carry bulkier or multiple items. Whether it’s extra fishing line, a small tackle box, or even snacks for a long day on the water, these pockets offer plenty of room. They’re ideal for extended trips or when you want to keep everything you might need within easy reach.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance between quick accessibility and ample storage to match the demands of your fishing adventure.
How can I care for fishing shorts with cargo pockets to keep them durable and functional?
To keep your fishing shorts with cargo pockets in great shape and ready for action, it's important to care for them properly. Always check the care label for specific instructions, but generally, you should machine wash them in cold or warm water on a delicate cycle. Skip the harsh detergents or bleach - those can weaken the fabric over time. Once washed, either hang them up or lay them flat to dry in a well-ventilated spot. This helps maintain their shape and prevents unnecessary wear.
After each fishing trip, give your shorts a good rinse with freshwater. This removes salt, dirt, and grime that can break down the material if left unchecked. When you're not using them, store the shorts in a cool, dry place. A breathable mesh bag works well to keep them fresh and functional. With regular care, your fishing shorts will stay comfortable and ready for your next outing.
In what fishing situations are deep hand pockets more useful than cargo pockets?
Deep hand pockets come in handy during fishing trips, especially when quick access to gear is a must. Take handlining, for instance - having tools or bait right at your fingertips can make all the difference in maintaining control and responsiveness. These pockets are perfect for stashing small essentials like hooks, lures, or weights, so you can stay focused on your line instead of digging through your gear.
They’re also a lifesaver in fast-paced situations, like navigating snaggy spots or handling slippery bait fish. With their easy access and practical design, deep hand pockets are a smart choice for anglers who value convenience and efficiency on the water.
