The best Scuba Weights in 2024

Looking to buy the best scuba weights for your next dive?

Here you will find a lot of information and a detailed buyer’s guide for scuba weights.

Why do we need to use weights during scuba diving?

The primary role of scuba weights is to help divers achieve neutral buoyancy underwater. As divers wear buoyant equipment like wetsuits, BCDs (Buoyancy Control Devices), and tanks, weights compensate and assist in sinking and maintaining desired depths.

Types of Scuba Weights

While most of you will have used hard weights made of lead, there are several types of scuba weights you can use on a dive.

Let’s look at each of them:

Soft Weights

These are pouches filled with small lead pellets. They are soft to touch and can fit into integrated BCD pockets or weight belts.

Pros: Flexible, comfortable, and can contour to your body.

Cons: Might be more expensive and can occasionally leak.

Hard Weights

These are solid blocks or pieces of lead with slots to slide onto belts. They are the most common ones used around the world and you have probably learned to use them in your Open Water Diver course.

Pros: Durable, often cheaper, easy to slide on/off.

Cons: Can be uncomfortable against the body if not positioned properly.

Ankle Weights

Strapped around the ankles, they prevent the legs from floating too much due to buoyant fins or wetsuits. They are also frequently used by freedivers.

Pros: Helps maintain horizontal trim.

Cons: Extra weight to carry, may not be needed by all divers.

Neck Weights

Often used by freedivers, these weights are wrapped around the neck to make descending easier.

Pros: Great for freediving, make descending easier

Con: Inconvenient

Integrated Weights

These are built into BCDs, allowing divers to ditch the weight belt. They are not weight pieces in themselves but a way to attach them securely.

Pros: Convenience, streamlined diving profile, and enhanced comfort.

Cons: Can be tricky for beginners to release in emergencies, typically more expensive.

Tips and Tricks for Using Scuba Weights

1. Start with a Weight Check: Always begin by establishing how much weight you need in controlled conditions, preferably shallow waters. Use our guide to doing a proper weight check for more tips!

2. Distribute Evenly: It’s crucial to distribute weights for even buoyancy. Using integrated pockets in your BCD can help.

3. Safety First: Always ensure you can release your weights quickly in emergencies, especially if you’re using a weight belt.

4. Trimming: If you find yourself constantly adjusting your buoyancy, consider trim weights. They allow for micro-adjustments.

Technical Considerations

Material: Lead has been the go-to material for weights. However, eco-friendly alternatives are emerging due to environmental concerns, including recycled materials and other dense, non-toxic metals.

Shape & Comfort: The shape of your weight can impact comfort. Rounded or contoured edges are preferable.

Weighting for Different Environments: Saltwater is denser than freshwater, meaning you’ll need more weight in the ocean than in a lake.

How many weights should I use during a dive?

To determine the perfect amount of weight to carry on a dive, there are two options: Do a weight check before each dive or use a scuba diving weight calculator.

Use our scuba diving weight calculator to calculate your scuba weight in just a few clicks!