RAID - Sidemount Diver
RAID Sidemount Course
The RAID Sidemount course is a specialty program that teaches certified divers the techniques and benefits of sidemount configuration, where cylinders are mounted along the sides of the body rather than on the back. This setup provides improved streamlining, better mobility, easier access to cylinder valves and regulators, and enhanced comfort.
The course covers equipment configuration, water entry and exit procedures, buoyancy and trim control, propulsion techniques, and gas management specific to sidemount diving. It is suitable for recreational divers and serves as a foundation for technical or overhead environment diving.
Benefits of the RAID Sidemount Course
- Improves streamlining and reduces drag for more efficient movement in the water
- Enhances mobility and access in confined spaces or overhead environments
- Provides redundant gas supply with independent cylinders and easier valve/regulator access
- Offers better weight distribution and comfort, reducing back strain
- Facilitates easier cylinder handling on the surface and during transport
- Builds skills in buoyancy control, trim, and specialized propulsion techniques
- Increases overall safety through improved equipment management and emergency procedures
Prerequisites
- Minimum age: 15 years
- Certified as RAID Open Water 20 diver or equivalent from a recognized agency
- Completion of the standard RAID medical questionnaire (certain conditions may require physician approval)
- Signing of liability release and safe diving practices agreement forms
Participants must complete or update all required RAID forms via the RAID User Portal.
Course Structure
The course is conducted by a certified RAID instructor and combines self-paced online theory with practical water sessions:
1. Academic Development
Completed via RAID’s online FREe-Learning platform. Topics include:
- History and advantages of sidemount diving
- Equipment selection, configuration, and accessories
- Gas management, valve switching, and balancing procedures
- Propulsion techniques, buoyancy, and trim in sidemount
- Entry/exit methods and emergency protocols Students access digital manuals, complete quizzes, and pass a final exam.
2. Equipment Orientation
Detailed review and personalized setup of sidemount harness, wing, cylinders, regulators, and accessories.
3. Practical Water Training
- Confined water training (minimum 1 hour): Skill refinement, including cylinder attachment/removal, trim, and problem-solving.
- Open water training: Minimum of two dives (total minimum 3 hours underwater time) Skills include neutral buoyancy propulsion, cylinder handling, gas sharing, valve drills, and simulated emergencies, with emphasis on safe and efficient execution.
Duration and Format
- Theory: Self-paced online (typically 4-6 hours)
- Practical sessions: Usually completed over 2-3 days, including confined water and at least two open water dives
- Overall program: Flexible scheduling to accommodate skill mastery
Equipment Provided
During training, the dive center typically supplies all required scuba equipment, including:
- Tank
- Regulator
- Mask, snorkel, fins
- Sidemount harness and buoyancy wing
- Weights
Participants are encouraged to provide their own personal items such as mask, fins, snorkel, sidemount, swimsuit and towel. A dive logbook, and certification card need to be presented on beginning the course.
Certification
Upon successful completion, students receive a globally recognized electronic certification (e-card) issued by RAID. The certification is permanent and downloadable from the RAID portal. It recognizes proficiency in underwater action camera use, with no changes to depth or diving limits.
Next Steps to Enroll
1. Create a free account on the RAID User Portal: https://user.diveraid.com
2. Purchase the Sidemount course materials in the RAID Store and access them via https://diveraid.com/sidemount/.
3. Contact the center to book, discuss fees, and schedule your session. The center will unlock training materials, conduct the program, and handle any recognition.
The RAID Action Camera certification equips divers with practical skills to capture and edit high-quality underwater media, enhancing documentation and sharing of diving experiences.
