The Reasons Why Do Scuba Divers Dive Forward and Backwards

 

A question often asked by novice divers is why do divers dive backwards? Essentially, diving backwards places less strain (and pressure) on the diver's head and face. Whilst this may seem trivial, it can have a significant impact on how comfortable you are underwater and can also potentially save your life.

In answer to the question "why do scuba divers dive backward", the forward facing positioning of most divers helmets provides the most efficient way of dealing with the effects of surface swirls and wave action whilst below water. This is because the diver's head is held above the surface of the ocean or water and all of the forces affecting it are pushed down through the helmet. When divers do roll backwards however, the force of the air against the diver's head is suddenly forced up through the nose of the diver's mask. This creates a sudden wind pressure push that can cause the mask to crack or even collapse.

Another reason why do scuba divers dive backwards is because in order to gain a better feel for the bottom environment, divers will often turn their mask in a backward position to obtain a greater depth perception. This allows the divers to see the areas below them and can help them to avoid obstacles such as reefs and shoals, which could otherwise increase the danger of capsizing or losing their balance. In order to maintain their balance, divers must keep their heads and hands above the surface at all times.

A further reason why do scuba divers dive backwards is to gain more mobility when working in narrow currents that are too strong to negotiate. For example, in some wrecks that have large submarine cables attached to the hull of the ship, divers may need to remove their mask and move cautiously around these cable wires in order to access the inner parts of the ship. Although it would seem simple to simply lower one's mask and move forward, doing so could result in serious injury if they should stumble or fall into the sub. It is for this reason that divers will often dive down and roll their mask multiple times before getting in a position to safely access the cables.

As you can see from this explanation, the main reason why do scuba divers dive backwards is to gain a sense of adventure in the underwater world. These divers take the time to investigate and enjoy the beauty and wonder of the underwater ecosystem. It is this unique quality of diving that allows these divers to safely explore many different environments, discover new species of fish, as well as discover treasure and other underwater mysteries.

If you have been diving for some time, you probably have had the experience of dealing with decompression sickness. However, you may not realize it at first. A divers experience with this sickness typically ends up in them wanting to try again, when they are unable to understand why they are not able to feel their heads or feel the water beneath their feet. The first thing a novice scuba diver should learn is how to quickly decompress using proper hand signals and proper breathing methods, allowing them to increase their vertical dive and their overall experience.