When you go to dive centers around the world, you will usually encounter a dive master who is 100% certain that he knows exactly how much weights you really need. In many cases, he will be wrong! Don’t let him decide for you. He is likely to give you a default answer which might be wrong and misleading. Be responsible for yourself and put some thought into your lead! To determine the amount of weights you need, to dive safely and comfortably underwater, you need a deep understanding of the subject. One thing is certain – Proper weights make you a better diver! Let’s go over some of the misconceptions which are well spread around the world. Take 10% of your body weight in lead A common rule of thumb, adhered by many divers, claims that a diver must carry weights equivalent to 10% of his body weight. While that does give you a certain range of the amount of weights you need, it does not take many important factors into account. Factors such as muscle, fat, height, gear and exposure suit are crucial when choosing weights and should be taken into account. For example, muscles sink and fat floats. A muscular man weighing 180lbs would probably need much less than 18 pounds of weight (even with a long 5mm), whereas a short stalky fellow weighing 180lbs might actually need more than 18lbs. This rule has actually led to many over weighted divers. Don’t be overweight! Most beginner divers, and even some of the more experienced I know, dive with too much weight, either consciously or without knowing. Very bad practice! There is a common belief among new divers that it’s better to sink fast than to have a hard time going under. News flash! When using proper weights, it
When you go to dive centers around the world, you will usually encounter a dive master who is 100% certain that he knows exactly how much weights you really need. In many cases, he will be wrong! Don’t let him decide for you. He is likely to give you a default answer which might be
