quick weight question

[terfmop]

I'll be diving in saltwater for the first time. All my dives to date have been in cold water quarries and lakes. I regularly use a 7mm, hood and gloves, which requires I use 15# of lead. I will be switching to a new 3/2mm.

So, I'm adjusting 2 variables here. I've heard that a good rule of thumb is to add 5-6# when in salt and same config. However, I've never used my 3/2 before...it is brand new.

 

[Nismo]

I would start with the 15 pounds and go from there. Using a 4/3 in cold fresh water, I use the same amount of weight as my 2/1 shorty in warm salt water.

 

[Dr Neil]

I got a formula from my OW instructor years ago and it seems to work for me.

Start with 5% of your body weight for salt water or 4% of your body weight for fresh water.

Add 1lb. of weight for every milimeter of thermal protection

Add 4lbs. for an aluminum 80 tank.
for other tanks, adjust according to their empty positive or negative buoyancy

With this formula a 200 lb. diver in salt water using a 5 mil wet suit and an aluminum 80 tank would wear 19 lbs. of weight.