As scuba diving evolves, so does the equipment and techniques used to explore the underwater world. One such innovation that has gained popularity is sidemount diving. While traditional backmount diving has been the standard for decades, sidemount diving offers a fresh perspective and a range of benefits that appeal to both recreational and technical divers. For those interested in diving in Koh Tao, a world-renowned diving destination, sidemount diving can open up new possibilities, making your underwater exploration even more enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll cover six reasons why you should consider becoming a sidemount diver, especially if you’re diving in Koh Tao, Thailand—a premier destination for both beginner and advanced divers. Whether you’re diving with the Koh Tao Scuba Club Thailand or seeking an SSI Advanced Course certification, sidemount diving offers a versatile and efficient way to experience the island’s rich marine life and underwater landscapes.
1. Enhanced Comfort and Flexibility for Long Dives
For many divers, comfort is a top priority. One of the primary advantages of sidemount diving is the comfort it provides, especially during long or challenging dives. Unlike backmount setups where the tank is strapped to your back, sidemount diving involves positioning tanks along your sides. This lateral placement evenly distributes the weight, relieving strain on your spine, back, and shoulders. This becomes particularly advantageous during extended bottom times or when navigating tight areas like wrecks or caves.
In Koh Tao, known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems, sidemount diving can help you enjoy longer, more comfortable dives. If you’re taking an SSI Course such as the SSI Advanced Course in Koh Tao, you’ll likely spend extended periods underwater, making comfort an essential consideration. With sidemount diving, divers can move freely, gliding through the water effortlessly. This added flexibility is especially beneficial for underwater photographers or videographers who require agility to capture that perfect shot.
For those new to the area, Koh Tao diving offers an array of dive sites, including Shark Island, Sail Rock, and the Chumphon Pinnacle. The ability to move freely and comfortably while exploring these beautiful locations can significantly enhance your diving experience.
2. Increased Safety with Redundant Air Supply
Safety is paramount in scuba diving, and sidemount diving provides an extra layer of security. One of the key safety features of sidemount diving is the use of two tanks, each equipped with its own regulator. This redundancy means that if one regulator or tank fails, you have an immediate backup. In traditional backmount configurations, divers rely on a single tank, and although backup systems exist, they aren’t as instantly accessible as they are in sidemount diving.
For divers in Koh Tao, especially those engaging in technical or cave diving, this added safety feature is invaluable. Diving in overhead environments like caves or wrecks can introduce unique risks, and having a backup air supply can be a lifesaver. Many dive shops in Koh Tao, including the Koh Tao Scuba Club Thailand, offer technical diving courses that teach the use of sidemount systems. These courses focus on advanced diving techniques and safety protocols that ensure divers are fully prepared for challenging environments.
Additionally, even recreational divers completing their SSI Advanced Course in Koh Tao can benefit from the added security of a sidemount setup. Whether you’re exploring deeper sites or simply want peace of mind, sidemount diving enhances your overall safety by offering quick access to your air supply.
3. Streamlined Profile for Efficient Movement
One of the most noticeable differences between backmount and sidemount diving is the streamlined profile it offers. Sidemount divers carry their tanks on the sides of their bodies, making them more hydrodynamic. This setup allows you to cut through the water with less resistance, reducing drag and conserving energy. For divers who enjoy exploring intricate environments like wrecks or caves, this streamlined profile offers superior maneuverability.
In Koh Tao diving, where you’ll often encounter swim-throughs and coral arches, sidemount diving can be a game-changer. Imagine exploring the famous HTMS Sattakut wreck or navigating the coral formations at Green Rock. With sidemount diving, you can glide effortlessly through these narrow spaces, reducing the risk of damaging the fragile marine environment or injuring yourself.
Moreover, if you’re pursuing an SSI Course such as the SSI Advanced Course, learning to master buoyancy and streamline your movements are key skills you’ll develop. Sidemount diving makes it easier to perfect your buoyancy control, as the tanks on either side of your body provide better balance and stability in the water.
4. Simplified Equipment Handling and Maintenance
Handling scuba gear can sometimes feel cumbersome, especially when dealing with heavy tanks or tricky terrain. Sidemount diving simplifies equipment management by allowing divers to don and doff tanks in the water. This is particularly useful when diving in locations where shore entries can be challenging or when diving from boats. In Koh Tao, where many dive sites require boat dives, this ease of handling makes sidemount diving a convenient option.
Diving with the Koh Tao Scuba Club Thailand, for example, often involves exploring a variety of dive sites, from shallow reefs to deeper pinnacles. The ability to handle your tanks with minimal effort means you’ll spend less time struggling with gear and more time enjoying your dives. This setup also allows for easy visual inspections of your tanks and regulators during the dive. Since the tanks are positioned on your sides, you can monitor your gear throughout the dive, ensuring everything is functioning properly.
For those taking an SSI Course, mastering the setup and maintenance of your gear is an important part of becoming a more self-sufficient diver. Sidemount diving not only makes this easier but also allows you to develop a deeper understanding of your equipment.
5. Extended Dive Times for More Exploration
One of the most exciting aspects of sidemount diving is the ability to carry more air, allowing for extended dive times. With two tanks, sidemount divers can stay underwater longer compared to their backmount counterparts, making it perfect for those who want to maximize their bottom time. For Koh Tao diving, where there is so much to see and explore, this can be a major advantage.
Popular dive sites like South West Pinnacle, Japanese Gardens, and the Twins are teeming with marine life, and being able to stay longer at depth means more opportunities to encounter species like whale sharks, barracudas, and vibrant schools of tropical fish. Longer dive times are especially valuable for advanced and technical divers who explore deeper sites or engage in extended cave diving.
Whether you’re completing your SSI Advanced Course or simply want to take your recreational diving to the next level, sidemount diving opens the door to longer, more immersive dives. For technical divers, this extended bottom time is critical when penetrating wrecks or caves, where air management and efficiency are vital.
6. Versatility Across Different Diving Environments
Sidemount diving offers unparalleled versatility, making it an ideal choice for divers who want to explore a range of underwater environments. From shallow reefs to deep wrecks, sidemount diving adapts to the conditions and offers more control and flexibility. In Koh Tao diving, where dive sites vary in depth and complexity, sidemount diving allows you to switch between recreational and technical diving seamlessly.
For example, if you’re interested in pursuing cave diving in the future or expanding your technical diving skills, sidemount diving is a natural progression. Many dive schools in Koh Tao, such as Koh Tao Scuba Club Thailand, offer courses specifically designed for divers who want to transition into technical diving. These courses, often part of an SSI Course, teach you how to configure and manage your gear for more challenging environments.
Even if you’re a recreational diver, sidemount diving provides the flexibility to explore different types of sites. The added comfort, safety, and ease of movement make it a great option for those who want to maximize their experience in Koh Tao’s diverse underwater landscape.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Sidemount Diving in Koh Tao
Sidemount diving is more than just a different way to carry your tanks—it’s a transformative experience that can enhance your dives in numerous ways. From improved comfort and safety to extended dive times and streamlined movement, sidemount diving offers a range of benefits that appeal to both recreational and technical divers.
In Koh Tao diving, where you have access to some of the world’s best dive sites, sidemount diving can help you make the most of your underwater adventures. Whether you’re diving with the Koh Tao Scuba Club Thailand or pursuing an SSI Advanced Course, sidemount diving provides the tools and techniques to elevate your diving experience.
So, if you’re ready to take your diving to the next level, consider giving sidemount diving a try. Whether you’re navigating a coral reef or exploring a deep wreck, sidemount diving will help you dive deeper, stay longer, and explore more.
