Sidemount diving originated in Cave Diving and Cave Exploration as
the lower vertical profile of this twin cylinder method allows for
deeper penetration into the tight confined areas of the underground
systems around the world. Sidemount diving is now the preferred
configuration for open circuit extended range, cave and deep exploration
dives.
Sidemount has been adapted into the Open Water environment for many
of the other benefits it can offer a diver as well. Using 'independent'
double cylinders a diver has additional redundancy in the unlikely event
of an equipment malfunction and offers much better visual and tactical
contact with their gas supply. All valves, hoses, O-rings, and
regulators are in close proximity to the diver and are within view at
all times. The elimination of two large cylinders on the divers back
also allows for easier mobility on a dive boat or land as the diver
prepares to enter the water. Sidemount Diving must also be considered a
method of gas management. Especially in Technical and Cave diving the
amount of gas in each cylinder must remain relatively equal. This is
accomplished by alternating breathing between each cylinder at a
scheduled rate.
Some of the other benefits often touted are the easier ability to
adjust a divers buoyancy or trim in the water. For the traveling diver
it is also much easier to acquire single cylinders versus double
cylinders at any diving location around the world.
Now openwater sidemount diving is recognized and taught by almost all of
the major training agencies around the globe.
