just coming in here to kiss your *** a bit :D

[LiteHedded]

I've recently had the opportunity to dive with some DIR folks and I'm totally in awe of the way you dive.
the way you're trimmed out and have your gear squared away is just awesome.
since diving with DIR people I've picked up a few things and finally have my trim totally squared away. after getting rid of all the excess weight I didn't even know I was carrying, bending my knees and extending my arms out front a bit were the key for me.
horozontal ascents and descents really blew me away the first time I saw it.

i wouldn't be opposed to taking fundies but it's not an inexpensive proposition for someone who doesn't already own DIR gear. maybe one day.
anyway, I'm a fan

 

[JeffG]

Thanks

 

[Cave Diver]

I've recently had the opportunity to dive with some DIR folks and I'm totally in awe of the way you dive.
the way you're trimmed out and have your gear squared away is just awesome.
since diving with DIR people I've picked up a few things and finally have my trim totally squared away. after getting rid of all the excess weight I didn't even know I was carrying, bending my knees and extending my arms out front a bit were the key for me.
horozontal ascents and descents really blew me away the first time I saw it.

i wouldn't be opposed to taking fundies but it's not an inexpensive proposition for someone who doesn't already own DIR gear. maybe one day.
anyway, I'm a fan

Glad you've had a positive experience, as opposed to what many on the board has had.

Just as an FYI, DIR isn't the only group that has gear squared away, good trim, etc. Maybe one of the more consistent and likely the highest profile though.

Before disregarding Fundies as too expensive, look at the requirements. It's been a while since I did it, but there were very few things that were *required* but there were a lot of *suggestions* in order to get the most out to the class.

If you aren't in "DIR compliant" gear, its a good learning experience as they discuss the why's and why nots of various types of gear.

 

[pickens_46929]

FYI, sometimes you can rent or borrow gear for Fundies... don't let "owning" get in the way of "doing"...

 

[LiteHedded]

I don't know how helpful it would be for me to take the class in gear I wouldn't be using after the class
*shrug*

 

[DIR-Atlanta]

If you aren't in "DIR compliant" gear, its a good learning experience as they discuss the why's and why nots of various types of gear.

That was true under the old "seminar" format, but since GUE made Fundies a full-blown certification class, they are now requiring DIR gear to take it.

 

[RonFrank]

I'm going to try doubles when I can hook up with my ABQ buddy while next at the hole. The reason I am using a BP/W for dry diving is because of that same buddy who allowed me to dive his singles setup more than a few times... Hmmm... maybe I better stay away from him!

I've found that DIR trained divers are great folks to dive with, and learn from. They also generally carry around a lot of spare gear, and are often willing to hook you up if you want to try different configurations, as long as it's Black!

I doubt I'll do Fundies at least anytime soon. But that does not preclude one from learning, and doing skills. My dry setup would get the DIR stamp of approval with maybe some minor niggles about my yellow zip ties, brass bolt snaps, and White Manta Ray fins! :11: I've learned a lot from DIR trained divers, which is one reason this forum is in existence.

 

[DIR-Atlanta]

FYI, sometimes you can rent or borrow gear for Fundies... don't let "owning" get in the way of "doing"...

I think it's better to have the gear beforehand, and to get a few practice dives in with it before starting the class. Everything will feel a little different to you, and you don't want to be struggling with it during the class itself. It also helps a lot if you can talk to some local DIR divers to get pointers on adjusting the harness, etc. They will go over all that stuff again in Fundies, but at least you will have a decent "first approximation".

 

[BarryNL]

I don't know how helpful it would be for me to take the class in gear I wouldn't be using after the class
*shrug*

That's the beauty of DIR - if you do it you will be using the same gear - or close enough to make no difference

 

[TSandM]

Well, just make sure your perception is correct. You don't have to have doubles, or a dry suit, or a can light to do Fundies. Just a backplate and wing, and non-split fins, and a long hose setup. The BP/W is a big step, expense-wise, that's true. But you can pick things up used for substantial discounts if you watch the boards and ebay. A long hose is about $40 new, retail. Jet fins also come up on e-bay, or are $70 on LeisurePro.

The class costs more than the gear changes will run you, if you're careful. And it will change your diving forever.