Sidemount

Sidemount was born exploring caverns and siphons. The early American and British explorers of the 1970s and 80s needed to pass through restrictions where a back-mounted twinset simply wouldn’t fit. The solution: carry the cylinders at the sides of the body, in a configuration that let them cross unthinkable passages while keeping full control of their kit.

Since then sidemount has evolved, refined and spread. Today it’s no longer only for caverns. It’s a complete configuration, suited to any kind of dive — from recreational to the most demanding technical diving.

Why sidemount changes everything

The cylinders sit at the sides of the body, under the arms. The centre of gravity drops, the hydrodynamic profile improves, trim becomes natural. There’s no longer any weight on your back. Buoyancy in the water is completely different: you feel lighter, freer, more in control.

Valves, taps and pressure gauges are always in front of you, always visible and within reach. If something goes wrong, managing it is immediate and intuitive. Two independent cylinders mean total redundancy: if one regulator fails, you switch to the other without stress.

The Hogarthian configuration I use ensures everything is minimal, efficient and in its right place. Nothing superfluous. Every element has a precise function and position.

Who is sidemount for?

Everyone. The recreational diver who wants more comfort and freedom. The technical diver looking for efficiency and redundancy. Those with back problems who can no longer carry a twinset. The curious who want to try something different.

And above all: for anyone who wants to dive better.