Sidemount Diver
The SDI Sidemount Diver course teaches you how to configure and dive a recreational sidemount system with balance, precision, and streamlined control. You’ll learn how to set up your equipment, manage independent cylinders, and perform sidemount‑specific skills with confidence in both confined and open water environments.
This course is ideal for divers who want a more balanced, flexible equipment configuration, improved trim and streamlining, or a pathway toward future technical training. Training includes academic learning, land‑based equipment workshops, confined water practice, and open water dives.
Availability: Contact us for booking information
SIDEMOUNT DIVER
What You’ll Learn
You’ll learn how to safely configure and dive a recreational sidemount system with balance, precision, and obsessive control of your equipment and environment.
- Sidemount equipment options and configuration
- Cylinder rigging and attachment methods
- Regulator setup and hose routing
- Proper weighting, trim, and streamlining
- Gas management using independent cylinders
- Communication and problem‑solving procedures
- Water entries and exits with one or two cylinders
- S‑drills and sidemount‑specific safety checks
Program Overview
This course teaches you how to configure, manage, and dive a recreational sidemount system with confidence and control. Training includes academic learning, land‑based equipment workshops, confined water practice, and open water dives.
Prerequisites: SDI Open Water Scuba Diver or equivalent; minimum age 18, or 15 with parental consent.
Required gear: A sidemount harness/BCD, two regulators, and appropriate cylinders. Rental equipment is available.
Explore gear options and rental availability:
Continuing Education Diver Add‑On Options
Where Training Takes Place
Training takes place at:
- The Scuba Ranch (May–Oct)
- Balmorhea State Park (Nov–Apr)
Locations are selected based on season, conditions, and course scheduling.
What Comes Next
Many divers continue their training with specialties that build on the precision and control learned in sidemount:
