Scuba Diving Silicone Regulator Necklace: A Step-by-Step Guide for Divers

By Lauren Holland

Updated November 2026

A scuba diving silicone regulator necklace keeps your alternate air source within easy reach and off the floor of the ocean. In this guide you will learn how to pick the right necklace, size it for your body, and set it up so your octopus stays clipped, clean and ready to use. The steps below work for most recreational divers, though you should always confirm gear choices with your instructor or dive shop.

What a Silicone Regulator Necklace Does

A regulator necklace is a loop, usually a coated cord or woven strap, that holds your secondary regulator (the octopus) at chest height. Silicone versions are popular because the material stays flexible in cold water, resists UV and salt better than many plastics, and does not snag easily on gear. The necklace should let you grab the octopus with one hand without twisting or searching for it.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 8 Best Dive Bomb Shell Bags for Scuba Gear Transport (2026).

How to Size and Fit the Necklace

Put on your exposure suit and BCD, since bulk changes where the necklace sits.
Stand upright and hold the octopus at mid-chest, roughly where your hand naturally falls.
Measure around your neck at the point where the necklace will rest. Most adjustable silicone necklaces cover a broad range, so check the manufacturer’s stated length range before you buy.
Leave enough slack that you can lift the regulator to your mouth without pulling the cord tight against your throat.
Test by bending forward and sitting down. The regulator should stay in front of you and not slide behind your shoulder.

Attaching and Securing Your Octopus

Most necklaces use a clip, a cord lock or a small loop to hold the hose. Route the hose so it lies flat across your chest and does not cross your mouthpiece path. Use a bungee or hose keeper if your necklace does not include one, so the second stage does not drift toward your hip or float up toward your face during descent.

Testing Before You Enter the Water

Before every dive, pull the octopus from its clip, breathe from it briefly on the surface, and return it. Check that the purge button works and that the hose has no kinks. Tug the clip gently to confirm it will not release by accident.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Setting the necklace too tight, which can restrict breathing comfort and make swallowing harder.
Letting the hose hang too long, so it catches on reef, line or your fins.
Skipping a pre-dive check after storing or rinsing the necklace.
Storing silicone near heat or in direct sun for long periods, which can degrade the material over time.
Ignoring wear on clips and cord locks, since a failed clip underwater is a real safety issue.

Recommended Gear

Silicone octopus keeper: Holds the second stage at a steady chest position so it is easy to grab during a buddy breathing drill. View on Amazon
Hose retainer bungee: Keeps the hose flat against your body and out of the way of your arms and fins. View on Amazon

FAQ

Is a silicone regulator necklace better than a nylon one?

Silicone tends to stay flexible in cold water and resists salt and UV well. Nylon can be just as safe if it is in good condition, so choose based on fit, comfort and how well the clip holds.

How often should I replace my regulator necklace?

Inspect it before every dive and replace it when you see cracks, stiffness, frayed cord or a clip that no longer locks firmly. Your dive shop can help with a periodic gear check.

Can a regulator necklace replace training on buddy breathing?

No. The necklace only holds the octopus in position. Emergency air-sharing skills must be learned and practiced in a certified course, and you should consult your instructor for current procedures.

Conclusion

A well-fitted scuba diving silicone regulator necklace keeps your alternate air source secure, visible and quick to reach. Size it for your body, test it on the surface, and check it before every dive. Keep practicing emergency skills with a certified instructor so the gear supports your training rather than replacing it.

Ready to choose one?

About Lauren Holland

Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our scuba gear for women guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.

About the author

Lauren Holland

Lauren Holland writes reviews and buying guides for Scuba Women.