Converting from Wet to Dry - Who did the Training?

[Melicertes]

In my previous post I said that I had no difficulty adjusting to the drysuit. I should mention that I did 5 dives in a quarry and was fairly comfortable with the bouancy before attempting a fresh water cold temp wreck dive. I wasn't suggesting that anyone should dive dry until they have a couple of controlled environment dives under their belt. If you don't have the chance to dive in a quarry or similar environment with divers you kow and trust to 'keep an eye on you' then by all means Take The Course.

Yes, I agree. Familiarizing oneself with new gear under controlled conditions is of course the first few steps. Personally I'll be hitting our nice deep pool for some quality playing time. Once I am convinced I have it totally nailed to my satisfaction I'll be looking for someone experienced out here on SB in my area, who dives dry, and who would not mind meeting a drysuit noob for a few support dives to iron out the kinks. Then I'm off to Catalina Island at Casino Point for a few relatively easy dives. After that, well we'll see.

 

[tc_rain]

I took the drysuit cert class. It was a good class that not only dealt with using the suit but also discussed the care of the suit and the different types of suits available. It also gave the pros and cons of each suit that helped me decide on what I was looking for in the suit before buying one. I also did not have the option of the tutelage of an experienced drysuit diver so this was my only choice. If you can find someone knowledgeable that you trust, I am sure they can do just as well as a PADI cert class. However, something to keep in mind is that if you plan to rent a suit most places will require a cert card. DUI Dog days even require a cert card or you had to go with an instructor.

 

[dannobee]

I didn't see an option for what I did. My regular dive buddy is an MSDT, so I asked him if I needed a course for the drysuit I just bought (I was willing, considering I might rent one on vacation someday). He said no, just practice in the pool to get my weighting close, then he'd keep an eye on me once we got into open water.

It worked out for me, but alas, it will take a dozen dives or so before you're comfortable again.

 

[Melicertes]

I didn't see an option for what I did. My regular dive buddy is an MSDT, so I asked him if I needed a course for the drysuit I just bought (I was willing, considering I might rent one on vacation someday). He said no, just practice in the pool to get my weighting close, then he'd keep an eye on me once we got into open water.

It worked out for me, but alas, it will take a dozen dives or so before you're comfortable again.

All the more reason to get in the water. Any excuse to get in the water is a good one.

 

[bogrady]

DUI DOG Day + Amazon.com for the Drysuit book and DVD. All you'll ever need.