Drysuit weight approximation formula

[divad]

Is there a rough formula to figure out drysuit vs. wetsuit weight needs? Just as a starting point. Like, If I use 6#s in a three mil wetsuit with an AL 80, around how much would need in a drytsuit with a 100 weight undergarment.

 

[dannobee]

Salt water or fresh? Shell suit or Neoprene? The rule of thumb is 10% of body weight + 5lbs with lightweight unders and a shell suit. Add 5 lbs more if the drysuit's neoprene. Compressed/crushed neoprene, maybe 2 lbs instead of adding 5. Add a couple of pounds if you're diving salt water. Obviously, do a pool check to confirm before doing a real dive.

The rule of thumb also suggests that you weigh 120 lbs (5% of body weight for a 3mm suit), so take that for what it's worth.

 

[jonnythan]

I'd say somewhere between 6 and 30 pounds.

It's basically impossible to come up with a formula of any sort. You just have to get in the water and try it out.

 

[Dive-aholic]

It also depends on what type of BC you're using. With my bp/w (AL bp), crushed neoprene DS, in fresh water, with an AL80, I add about 12 pounds. But I'm a sinker.

 

[divad]

There has to be some "ballpark" ratio.

 

[jonnythan]

Not really. I'd guess somewhere between 12 and 24 pounds.

 

[divad]

Not really. I'd guess somewhere between 12 and 24 pounds.

That indicates a ballpark ratio. That's what I was thinking. Thanks.

 

[divad]

OK, after seeing what I have writ, it seems I'm the one who should come up with the "ballpark" ratio.

 

[hopeitsapar]

The 10% of body weight plus 5 pounds is almost exactly what I use, I did not know this foumula but it is within 1 pound of what I am able to get down with. I have tried to go to the 10% only and have difficulty getting down. I use a fleece DUI and a DUI FLX50/50 and a Ranger LTD.

Seems like a good estimate

 

[rickyd]

Hmmmm, interesting formula. It's also within a pound or so of what I use with my DUI CF200 and 200 gram fleece.