In this article, we share practical advice to help you make the right choice of diving weights for scuba diving. This is an essential part of your equipment, and using the correct amount of weight is key for both safety and comfort underwater.
It is important to be careful with this element of your gear. As a general rule, it is always better to carry less weight than too much. While weights help you descend, they can reduce your safety by making it harder to ascend.
Use Less Weight on Deeper Dives
It is recommended to reduce the amount of weight as your dive becomes deeper. Carrying too much weight can become a serious problem during ascent, when it may be too late to correct.
Diving weights will make your descent faster and your ascent slower, so it is essential to use them carefully and with proper control.
- Too much weight → faster descent and difficult ascent
- Too little weight → difficulty descending
- Correct weight → controlled and safe dive
Weights for Different Diving Activities
Depending on the type of activity, the use of weights may be recommended or not.
| Activity | Use of Weights |
|---|---|
| Freediving (recreational) | Not recommended |
| Scuba diving with tank | Required |
For recreational freediving, weights are generally not recommended. A basic freediving setup is enough for enjoyment and safety.
For scuba diving with a tank, weights are necessary and are usually worn with a weight belt or integrated into the BCD (jacket).
How to Find Your Ideal Weight
To determine the correct amount of weight, follow this simple buoyancy test:
- Stay vertical in the water
- Keep your BCD completely empty
- Do not move your fins
- Breathe normally
You should remain submerged up to eye level. This indicates that your weighting is close to optimal.
Recommended Weight Guide by Wetsuit Thickness
The thickness of your wetsuit affects your buoyancy and therefore the amount of weight required.
| Wetsuit Thickness | Recommended Weight (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| No wetsuit / rash guard | 0 – 2 kg |
| 3 mm (warm waters) | 2 – 4 kg |
| 5 mm | 4 – 6 kg |
| 7 mm | 6 – 10 kg |
Final Recommendations
- Start with less weight and adjust gradually
- Always check your buoyancy before diving
- Avoid carrying excess weight
- Ask your instructor for guidance if unsure
Proper weighting is one of the most important skills in scuba diving. Mastering it will improve your safety, reduce air consumption, and make your dives much more enjoyable.