ScubaJo once bubbled...
Question, what's DIR? [/B]
I thought your question would have generated an answer from some of the tech divers on here but I see none yet ssooooo. I'll give it a whril. I'm not a tech diver so I have no opinon for or against but here is what I think its about and anyone (or everyone) may correct me if I'm wrong.
DIR is an abreveation for "Doing It Right" and is a kind of diving "philosophy" that attempts to address (all) areas that are related to diving some of which are equipment, skills, safety and even fitness. They believe that there is an "optimum" and best way to do everything from fin straps to hose routings and evrything in between. It is all incorporated into this system that stresses safety and efficiency.
It gets really tricky with DIR divers and non-DIR divers and alot of threads can be, shall we say... interesting. The non-DIR crowd also believes in "the best way" but it is what an individual has learned is best for him/herself - not necessarily what DIR has stated. They may practice a few or even most of the aspects that DIR has also adopted but may disagree with a few of the points of the concept and so are deemed to be non-DIR. It appears to be an all of nothing philosophy.
DIR divers are very steadfast and abrupt in their doctrine and can be very aggressive in proving thier point. They appear to some to be arrogant in their beliefs because "they're right and everyone else is wrong" NOT ALL ARE LIKE THIS.
If you stay on the board long enough you will learn a ton from both sides! I am starting to go the tech route and am trying to look at what everyone does. Someone on the board has an excellent article that he will e-mail you that explains it 10 times better than I am (sorry, I forget who...). If you want to learn more a search of the board will give you lots or go to:
http://www.gue.com/info/index.shtml
they are the agency that teaches DIR.
Now if you'll excuse me I'm going to get the fire department to come because I think I'm going to get my whole house flammed!!!!!