Table of Contents
Why Scuba Weighting Matters
Proper weighting is critical for safe diving. Too much weight wastes air and can cause uncontrolled descents. Too little makes it impossible to descend or maintain depth during safety stops. The right amount allows effortless neutral buoyancy at any depth with minimal BCD air.
Weight needed depends on body composition (fat is buoyant), wetsuit thickness, water salinity, tank material, and lung volume. This calculator provides starting estimates to be refined through actual buoyancy checks in the water.
Weight Calculation
Weighting Guidelines
| Suit | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| No suit | +0 lbs |
| 3mm Shorty | +2 lbs |
| 5mm Full | +4 lbs |
| 7mm Full | +6 lbs |
| Drysuit | +8 lbs |
FAQ
How do I do a buoyancy check?
At surface with full tank, deflate BCD, hold normal breath. You should float at eye level. Exhaling should make you slowly sink.
Less weight in fresh water?
Yes, about 4 lbs less. Fresh water is less dense, providing about 2.5% less buoyancy than salt water.
Why more weight with thicker suits?
Neoprene contains trapped gas bubbles creating buoyancy. Thicker suits have more neoprene and more buoyancy to counteract.