I typically use the dive shop's rental gear while in the pool, so that the students can mirror my demonstration, since we'll be using the same setup. They'll typically be using rental equipment anyway, also from the dive shop.
This keeps my gear chlorine-free, although this isn't always an issue since one of the pool I use most is actually unchlorinated but uses filtered water instead. It's really more for the students' benefit.
In OW, I use an "unconventional" setup, which I agree allows the students to see alternatives -- I use a backfloat and weight-integrated SQ Balance (slightly modified), with an AirSource II as my AAS. My SPG is a tiny Tritium, mounted on the right side and routed over the shoulder and clipped into place on the shoulder D-ring. No console, but I use my Vyper (wrist) as a depth gauge and timing device (and of course, as a dive computer
), and wear a dive watch for backup depth and dive time information.
I don't demo in OW anyway, so the differences between our setups (e.g., I'm using integrated weights, they're using weightbelts) don't cause a problem. Still, I make sure to explain to the students the differences in my configuration, and how they don't depart from any of the standards they've been taught during the course (for example, alternate air source, quick release weights, complete instrumentation). This additional info is also useful to them when they finally go and buy their own gear.
I prefer not to go doubles and backplate, though, as that might be too much of a departure from what they saw me use and what they'll be using.
This keeps my gear chlorine-free, although this isn't always an issue since one of the pool I use most is actually unchlorinated but uses filtered water instead. It's really more for the students' benefit.
In OW, I use an "unconventional" setup, which I agree allows the students to see alternatives -- I use a backfloat and weight-integrated SQ Balance (slightly modified), with an AirSource II as my AAS. My SPG is a tiny Tritium, mounted on the right side and routed over the shoulder and clipped into place on the shoulder D-ring. No console, but I use my Vyper (wrist) as a depth gauge and timing device (and of course, as a dive computer
), and wear a dive watch for backup depth and dive time information.I don't demo in OW anyway, so the differences between our setups (e.g., I'm using integrated weights, they're using weightbelts) don't cause a problem. Still, I make sure to explain to the students the differences in my configuration, and how they don't depart from any of the standards they've been taught during the course (for example, alternate air source, quick release weights, complete instrumentation). This additional info is also useful to them when they finally go and buy their own gear.
I prefer not to go doubles and backplate, though, as that might be too much of a departure from what they saw me use and what they'll be using.
