edwants2dive
Glowstick
Thanks for all the replies and encouragement. For the record I’m 5’10” and weigh in at about 185 lbs. I’m a bit over weight but certainly not obese. Problem is waist is larger than hips. The wet suit I was using was 2 piece kind of thing with a jacket over the main suit so, some of it was probably 14mm. I was warm in the 48 degree water. And yep losing it at depth would not be a good thing. I am frustrated with the process and the lack of support from the LDS. It’s been a long time since my original certification and since my last dive. Shoot I had never even worn a BCD until my confined water dives.........
@MJS1946 Don't give up! there is way too much enjoyment and fun to be had diving. I am by no means an expert (hell I am still a novice at best) but I am learning each time I get in the water. As to the weight thing We are about the same height but I weigh a bit more (230) but my the fresh water setup l use (just did a few last month) is - 5mm wet suit, AL 80 tank (most common out there), Weight integrated BCD (yes fins mask snorkel Reg) my weighting for that is 16 lbs 2-5 pound shot bags in integrated pouch at my waist and 2- 3 pound shot bags in trim pockets on back for the same setup in salt I add 2 pounds to each waist pocket and I get down very easily. I say all that because I bet we are shaped pretty similar ( my belly is probably protrudes out a bit farther). So don't give up and enjoy the warm water scene.
Welcome aboard here glad to have you around. The gang here is great and you will find a ton of useful info and advice from them.