CochraneScuba Basic Weight Calculator

NOTE: This calculator is for discussion purposes only and is not intended for actual dive planning.
Refer to your certifying agency procedures to plan your dives.
This weight calculator is based on the PADI Weighting Guidelines used in the Peak Performance Buoyancy course.

How much weight do I need?.
Although only a buoyancy check can determine the proper amount of weight needed, here is a weight calculator that'll get you started.
This calculator is based on individuals of average build, diving in salt water. Lean individuals may need less weight, while heavy individuals may need more.

You may also need to add more (or less) weight depending on any of the following:

Body Weight Rule
Water Type - Fresh water will need less weight than salt Fresh Salt Fresh - subtract 4-7 lbs, depending on body weight
Dive Skin Yes No Add 1-4 lbs
Thin (3 mm) Wetsuit or Shorty Yes No Add 5% of your body weight
Medium (5 mm) Two-Piece Wetsuit Yes No Add 10% of your body weight
Cold Water (7 mm) Two-Piece Wetsuit with Hood and Boots Yes No Add 10% of your body weight, plus 3-5 lbs
Neoprene Dry Suit Yes No Add 10% of your body weight, plus 7-10 lbs
Shell style Dry Suit using light weight nonfoam underwear Yes No Add 10% of your body weight, plus 3-5 lbs
Shell-style Dry Suit using heavy-weight or foam underwear Yes No Add 10% of your body weight, plus 7-14 lbs
Tank Material - Aluminum will need more weight than Steel Aluminum Steel Add 5 lbs if using an Aluminum 80
Lower Range Upper Range


 
For more information, contact:
Tim B Cochrane
1-615-497-8833
 
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