Sidemount Diver

I started sidemount diving over 10 years ago as part of my initial tech and deco training. Since then I’ve done thousands of sidemount dives and trained divers and instructors on this gear configuration. I am a big fan of sidemount diving and most of my cave diving is in sidemount. I generally prefer it over other configurations. Sidemount offers true cylinder independence, a low profile, and modularity.

There are many sidemount systems and methodologies. It’s crucial to develop solid foundational skills in sidemount before introducing it into cave or deco environments. A structured sidemount course is the best time value for developing those skills.

The sidemount course can fall into two categories – technical and recreational

Technical programs give you the skillset and knowledge to transition the sidemount configuration into cave or decompression environments. Extensive focus is placed on rim, control, and buoyancy. When appropriate, deco/stage cylinders are integrated as part of the course.

A recreational sidemount program gives divers the baseline configuration knowledge and skillsets of sidemount. This program is better for less experienced divers who will then get more diving experience in sidemount before progressing into the technical world.

Both programs work with the individual to perfect their sidemount kit for them. Cylinder rigging, gear tweaking, regulator, and gas management are all core components of any sidemount course.

Day 1
Rigging session
Dive 1
Fills and video review
Day 2
Dives 3+4
Fills and video review
Day 3
Dives 5+6
Fills and video review

Sidemount diving requires precision in rigging, assembly, and donning. You should expect to learn about the history, practical applications, and various styles of sidemount. While there are many ways to accomplish a sidemount dive, there are methods that work better than others and our goal is to examine the “why” and the “how”. This gives you the ability to make informed decisions that best suit your diving.

Benefits of sidemount:

  • Cylinder Independence – no chance of isolation manifold failure because there isn’t one.
  • Ease of Entry- You can enter that water with 0 cylinders.
  • Shorter Profile – Easier access to passages that are wider than they are tall.

Drawbacks of sidemount:

  • Gas Management – You must swap regulators regularly to keep pressures balanced.
  • Width – Sidemount is harder to fit in passages that are narrower than they are tall (like shipwreck doors).
  • Paradox of Choice – Because of the customization available some divers choose methods resulting in lots of drag and inefficiency.

Sidemount Diving vs. Diving Sidemount

Sidemount Diving is using sidemount where it’s required – like small passages or entrances which require rappelling. Diving sidemount is using the configuration in areas where doubles could also be used. Sidemount diving is much less common. We rarely need to use the sidemount configuration, but the benefits of sidemount and comfort often encourage people to dive sidemount exclusively.

Can you sidemount off a boat?

Absolutely! I’ve done this many, many times. It is, objectively, less efficient than using doubles, especially for boats in South Florida. Gearing up takes longer in sidemount than doubles and ladders are not typically wide enough to easily accommodate “widemount” but there are techniques and procedures we can use to make it easier to accomplish.