Local shops moving away from SDI?

[DVNGN8-E]

Good morning everyone!

I’ve noticed a recent trend here in DFW that several shops who were primarily SDI-based are moving away from it towards NAUI, SSI, and PADI. Is this just a fluctuation of industry trend, or are training opinions shifting away from SDI due to some perceived “issue” with their training/class structure? Looking for thoughts/opinions/insight…

For what it’s worth, the certs that I currently own are SDI and I’m always looking to continue learning and improving my skills to become a better diver. I also recognize that each agency has their own pros and cons - especially when you reach the higher levels specialties. I simply would like to make sure that I’m pursuing the best possible training available - and knowing of course that also depends on the instructors and their focus on the individual student becoming better divers versus pushing certs because of the dollar.

just thought I would pose the question to the group for any insight and perhaps constructive conversation. Hope you’re all well!

~Nate

 

[Eric802]

Which shops? The only one I'm really familiar with is Scuba Adventures in Plano, and they're SDI.

 

[DVNGN8-E]

Which shops? The only one I'm really familiar with is Scuba Adventures in Plano, and they're SDI.

ScubaToys in Dallas, High Tide in Mansfield - those are two i know of… International Scuba in Carrollton and Plano are still SDI also…

 

[Tigerpaw]

ScubaToys in Dallas, High Tide in Mansfield - those are two i know of… International Scuba in Carrollton and Plano are still SDI also…

 

[formernuke]

Go for instructor not agency. In the recreational world the actual standards are the same the way the material is presented if different, but it's the same material and required skills.

A good instructor regardless of agency will focus just not on the required skills and materials but will also do stuff to help you become a better diver above what is just required.

For example in just open water the requirements are just do the skills a lot of instructors will have the students kneeling, a good instructor will have them neutral in proper trim doing them. The same applies across all the classes.