Weight calculation - Seeking advice

[Ed Hatfield]

I have just purchased my first dry suit and will be trying it out on the May 5th weekend in a controlled environment (Gilboa Quarry).
I am seeking advice on a 'starting point' to get the correct weight. The suit is the Polar Fit Trilam from Mares (Mobbys). I have the heavy full undergarment and will be diving an 'Airtrim' Mares BC. with the integrated weight sytem. I am looking for a practical amount of weight to start with and I will add weight in the pockets until I acheive my goal. As a reference, I normally carry 24 lbs with a 7mm at Gilboa. All other equipment will be the same with the exception of the suit and undergarment.
Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

 

[Igodeep]

Ed, it very hard to say how much wieght you will need. Your undergarments are going to make a huge difference. If you have access to a pool, I would do a weight check before you go. Since you have been diving a 7mm before, I would start with the same 24 pounds and see what happens.

 

[fppf]

I use 26 with a full 7mm and with my drysuit and a fleece.
For my heavy snow suit I need 32.
Thats with an AL 80, I drop 6 when I use my steel 120.

 

[Ed Hatfield]

Thank you both for the input. That is exactly the type of information I was looking for.