Drysuit Training
The importance of proper training in the use of a drysuit cannot be over emphasised. Like all pieces of equipment, a drysuit should be first tried in a controlled and safe environment.
READ THE MANUAL!The following organisations can help you with all aspects of your diving skills and also run specialist drysuit courses.
PADI
The Drysuit Diver Speciality course is intended as a safe, supervised introduction to drysuit diving. The Drysuit course will familiarise divers with the skills, knowledge, procedures, techniques, problems, hazards and enjoyment of diving with a drysuit. You'll learn how to master buoyancy control with a drysuit, how to look after your drysuit and much more. If your planning to dive in the UK then a Drysuit is a must!
SSA
The SAA runs a number of national courses open to members. These are in addition to the standard club-based courses, such as the standard diver grades, Nitrox, etc. If you are interested in more information, please speak to your DO or Regional Representative.
BSAC
Theory Lessons 1 & 2
* Lecture 1: drysuits and equipment
*Lecture 2: drysuit diving techniques
Sheltered Water Lesson 3
Using a drysuit
*Dressing and seals
* Kit up & buddy checks
* Buoyancy checks in standing depth
*Surface swims with varying degrees of inflation
Underwater
*Buoyancy & trim
*Head first and feet first descents
*Inversion / Blow up drills
* Forward roll to head up position
*Quick disconnect of inflator hose
Surface
* Over-inflate to blow seals
* Recovery using BC
Diver rescue
* Controlled self ascent using drysuit
* CBL buddy using drysuit
Open Water Lesson 4
Drysuit dive experience
Trainee ODs
* Skills integrated into all OD OW lessons
Ocean Divers
* Completed SO1 diver rescue lesson using a drysuit
Sports Divers and above
* Dive to max 15m demonstrating full drysuit control