The Side Hustle: Discover Sidemount Diving
Sidemount introduces a different approach to diving, and it has quickly gained a lot of popularity around the world. The basic idea is this: by carrying cylinders along your sides instead of behind you, you achieve a more streamlined profile, easier access to your valves, and a sense of balance that changes the way you move underwater. For divers looking to expand their skills and explore new possibilities, the Sidemount Diver Specialty is an exciting next step.
What is Sidemount Diving and Why Do It?
Sidemount was originally developed by cave divers who needed a safe and flexible way to navigate through tight spaces. Over time, its benefits have proven valuable in all kinds of diving. Having cylinders at your sides distributes weight more comfortably and makes it easier to adjust your trim, which in turn improves your buoyancy control.
The configuration also allows for extended gas supply and redundancy, providing a safety margin that backmount systems cannot always match. While sidemount is an essential foundation for technical divers, it is just as appealing for recreational divers who simply want more comfort and control underwater.
Why Choose the Sidemount Diver Specialty Course?
This course is designed to help you transition confidently into the sidemount system. Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, you will learn how to configure and don the equipment, practice efficient gas management, and refine your buoyancy while carrying two cylinders.
Many divers find that sidemount reduces strain on their back, improves balance, and creates a sense of freedom that enhances the overall dive experience. For those considering future wreck, cavern, or technical training, it provides the skills and familiarity needed to take the next step. For others, it simply expands the range of options available for everyday diving.
What You Will Learn During Sidemount Training
The Sidemount Specialty is built around both theory and practice, ensuring you understand the principles of the configuration before applying them in the water. You will cover equipment setup, hose routing, and cylinder attachment, then move into confined water to get comfortable with the system in a controlled environment.
From there, you progress to open water dives where you will fine-tune buoyancy, master cylinder switching, and build confidence in problem-solving skills. By the end of the course, you will have the ability to plan and execute dives with sidemount equipment safely and effectively.
Who Should Take the Sidemount Diver Course?
Any certified diver interested in improving their comfort, safety, and versatility underwater will benefit from learning sidemount. It is a natural choice for divers who want to extend bottom time by carrying more gas, and for those exploring environments where redundancy and streamlining are critical.
Even if you are not planning to move into technical diving, the course offers immediate advantages for recreational diving, giving you the tools to approach your dives with greater flexibility and confidence.
How to Start Your PADI Sidemount Diver Specialty in Vancouver
To enrol in the course, you need to be at least 15 years old and certified as a PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent. Training takes place here in Vancouver, where our instructors provide hands-on guidance and support throughout the process. Booking is straightforward through the Diving Sports website, and our team is always available to answer questions about prerequisites, scheduling, or equipment requirements.
The Sidemount Diver Specialty introduces a new level of comfort, safety, and control that can enhance every dive you make. Whether you are looking ahead to technical training or simply want to enjoy a different way of diving, sidemount opens the door to a more flexible and rewarding underwater experience.
Next Course Dates:
Classroom & Pool: October 22nd and October 25th, 2025
Ocean Dives: November 1st and November 2nd, 2025
Secure your spot today and start your sidemount training with Diving Sports.
