Why is DIR controversial?

[headhunter]

As I understand it, the "all black" thing is mainly an internet joke. I believe that red has been used in the WKPP for a long time due to filming purposes but don't quote me on that.

Personally I prefer all black dive equipment. I think it looks nice, doesn't fade too much, and isn't distracting like other colors (read: neon pink). If other people want to wear colors, go for it.

Thanks for pointing out that the color thing is simply a joke and that it is not required that anyone wear any particular color. People reading about DIR for the first time in this thread might think that this is actually a serious requirement, which of course would be silly (I'm liking this word today).

Christian

 

[matt_unique]

...
the statement that DIR practicioners are arrogant and elitists is your bias coming through. that's your belief.
...

That "belief" is shared by many more than Rick. I did not start out with a negative impression of DIR, it evolved from experience with those who represent DIR.

DIR is controversial because of the those who represent it.

--Matt

 

[dive2deep]

Wow this thread blew up like most others arguing this age old "religion" topic. It's like porn, if you like it, buy it, if you don't, stop going into the porno section of the video store (too offensive)...

Then there's people like me, who are in the process of training with GUE, and I dive mostly with GUE trained guys, but do not consider myself DIR. My gear is for the most part GUE configuration, except for my Poseidon regs. When I talk to GUE divers, I get crap for the type of regs I use, when I talk to non-GUE divers, I get harrassed for being 'DIR'. Dude, I just can't win, and all I wanted to do was dive....

Szymon

 

[Bill51]

OK, now let me see if I understand the two possible answers to the OP question.

In one corner we have people saying the controversy results from the name implying that anyone not diving DIR is doing it wrong, and that either DIR attracts arrogant elitists or grows them to a disproportionate level to the size of the following and that they are rather vocal.

In the other corner we have people saying the controversy results from non-DIR people being insecure about their own diving abilities or thin skinned, and that non-DIR divers pick on DIR divers.

Sounds to me like part of the perspective of the second group just confirms the opinion of the first group.

 

[WJL]

When I talk to GUE divers, I get crap for the type of regs I use, when I talk to non-GUE divers, I get harrassed for being 'DIR'. Dude, I just can't win, and all I wanted to do was dive....

Szymon

Now you know the truth. We're all agreed on one thing - it is our duty to take every opportunity that arises to give you a hard time.

BTW, nobody likes your avatar. And your dog is ugly.

 

[Green_Manelishi]

Wow this thread blew up like most others arguing this age old "religion" topic. It's like porn, if you like it, buy it, if you don't, stop going into the porno section of the video store (too offensive)...

Then there's people like me, who are in the process of training with GUE, and I dive mostly with GUE trained guys, but do not consider myself DIR. My gear is for the most part GUE configuration, except for my Poseidon regs. When I talk to GUE divers, I get crap for the type of regs I use, when I talk to non-GUE divers, I get harrassed for being 'DIR'. Dude, I just can't win, and all I wanted to do was dive....

Szymon

Dive solo. There won't be anyone around to harass you for doing it rong. :11:

 

[dive2deep]

Dive solo. There won't be anyone around to harass you for doing it rong. :11:

Yes, but can you imagine the load I'll get from the GUE crowd at that point. Poseidon is one thing, Solo, you better get head protection on.

Szymon

 

[nadwidny]

I do have one question - 2 months back I saw a GUE class at the Blue Grotto - all of the GUE instructors were wearing red/black dry suits - what happened to the all black thing? Of course colors wont save us, wont kill us, and don't help with the sac rate either....

There never was an all black thing except on the internet. Find some pictures of JJ and George from the mid to late 90's and you'll see them usually in a red/black suit.

I shoot video and it drives me nuts when people that I dive with go all black.

 

[ShallowDiverDave]

I told my OW instructor that I was training to become a solo diver. He is heavily involved in the DIR philosophy, and had been trying to persuade me in the same direction. How do you think he responded? He hasn't responded, and probably never will.

 

[lamont]

OK, now let me see if I understand the two possible answers to the OP question.

In one corner we have people saying the controversy results from the name implying that anyone not diving DIR is doing it wrong, and that either DIR attracts arrogant elitists or grows them to a disproportionate level to the size of the following and that they are rather vocal.

In the other corner we have people saying the controversy results from non-DIR people being insecure about their own diving abilities or thin skinned, and that non-DIR divers pick on DIR divers.

Sounds to me like part of the perspective of the second group just confirms the opinion of the first group.

non-DIR divers do pick on DIR divers. this very post of yours confirms the opinion of the second group. or do you not choose to see that?