As I watch the DIR debate go round and round- backplates wings etc etc. I keep
getting stuck on if people used the 'normal'(non-DIR) stuff correctly they
would be pretty much DIR.

If your BCD fits and you are weighted properly and understand how to use the
attchment points on most BCDs you are pretty streamlined. As streamlined as a
backplate and wings? I dunno-but good enough for most of the diving.

Granted a huge portion of the diving population dives in BCDs that are too big,
over weighted without securing dangling hoses. They are under experienced and
trained very very quickly but if anything DIR doesn't address this.

If people routed consoles properly(close to body) and secured them, then got
their octo located and secured- understood what the velcro and clips were
designed for and used them accordingly. Most 'traditional' set-ups work really
well.

My biggest bitch is that DIR seems to be trying impose a singular approach for
everyone. People differ and diving styles and missions differ to-

Being streamlined is great! I understand the advantages of that. Saving money
is nice too. But DIR isn't the holy grail, what we have works especially when
it is used correctly. There are lots of ways to be more effienct underwater and
lots of bargins to be had.

IMHO DIR seems to make the most sense for a small part of the diving population
that dive very often, love to play with their 'toys'. Not the 'average joe'
diver who makes a trip a year and won't be diving in three years.

For the masses I think soft packs, traditional hose set-up, weighting, etc etc
makes more sense.