The lower attachment point dictates the pitch of the cylinder. As a rule of thumb, aluminum tanks require the lower clips to be moved down the tank as they become positive during the dive. Steel tanks generally stay fixed closer to the hip. 2. Dynamic Buoyancy and Trim
A successful sidemount setup requires dedicated systems rather than hybrid harnesses to ensure optimal streamlining.
: Position your lower attachments based on your specific body length. Achieving Flawless Trim and Buoyancy sidemount principles for success verified
Typically, a "long hose" (approx. 2 meters) is used on the right cylinder for gas sharing, while a shorter hose is used on the left.
The following story illustrates these principles through the eyes of a diver transitioning from traditional back-mount to sidemount, following the curriculum of specialized guides like the Sidemount: Principles For Success eBook by Andy Davis. The Story of Leo’s Transition The lower attachment point dictates the pitch of
Sidemount is inherently a redundant system. Managing two independent gas sources requires a disciplined mental approach.
: Alternate between your left and right regulators every 30 to 50 bar (500 to 700 psi). Achieving Flawless Trim and Buoyancy Typically, a "long
Before you add gas to your wing, you must balance the teeter-totter.
To verify success in streamlining, you must ensure that your cylinders sit perfectly parallel to your body. Tanks should not flare outward at the bottoms or drop too low below your hips. Proper bungeeing keeps the valves tucked tightly into your armpits, while correct bolt snap placement on the lower cylinder rigging ensures the tanks hug your flanks. A streamlined profile reduces the effort required to move through the water, directly improving gas consumption and reducing fatigue. 2. Absolute Trim and Buoyancy Control
The lower attachment point dictates the pitch of the cylinder. As a rule of thumb, aluminum tanks require the lower clips to be moved down the tank as they become positive during the dive. Steel tanks generally stay fixed closer to the hip. 2. Dynamic Buoyancy and Trim
A successful sidemount setup requires dedicated systems rather than hybrid harnesses to ensure optimal streamlining.
: Position your lower attachments based on your specific body length. Achieving Flawless Trim and Buoyancy
Typically, a "long hose" (approx. 2 meters) is used on the right cylinder for gas sharing, while a shorter hose is used on the left.
The following story illustrates these principles through the eyes of a diver transitioning from traditional back-mount to sidemount, following the curriculum of specialized guides like the Sidemount: Principles For Success eBook by Andy Davis. The Story of Leo’s Transition
Sidemount is inherently a redundant system. Managing two independent gas sources requires a disciplined mental approach.
: Alternate between your left and right regulators every 30 to 50 bar (500 to 700 psi).
Before you add gas to your wing, you must balance the teeter-totter.
To verify success in streamlining, you must ensure that your cylinders sit perfectly parallel to your body. Tanks should not flare outward at the bottoms or drop too low below your hips. Proper bungeeing keeps the valves tucked tightly into your armpits, while correct bolt snap placement on the lower cylinder rigging ensures the tanks hug your flanks. A streamlined profile reduces the effort required to move through the water, directly improving gas consumption and reducing fatigue. 2. Absolute Trim and Buoyancy Control