Scuba Weight Calculator
Calculate optimal ballast weight for neutral buoyancy diving based on body weight, equipment, and diving conditions
Calculate Scuba Ballast Weight
Your body weight without equipment
Weight of mask, fins, regulator, BCD, etc. (typical: 12kg/26lbs)
If provided, overrides body + equipment weight
Thicker wetsuits require more weight for buoyancy control
Salt water provides more buoyancy than fresh water
Steel tanks are heavier and less buoyant than aluminum
Beginners may need slightly more weight for buoyancy control
Ballast Weight Results
Calculation method: Base weight (10% of total mass) + wetsuit buoyancy + water density + tank adjustment + experience factor
• Heavy weighting - consider reducing if possible
Buoyancy Analysis
Example Calculation
Tropical Diving Example
Diver: 70kg body weight
Equipment: 12kg (standard gear)
Wetsuit: 3mm (warm water)
Water: Salt water
Tank: Aluminum 12L
Experience: Intermediate
Weight Calculation
Base weight: 8.2kg (10% of 82kg total)
Wetsuit buoyancy: +2.9kg
Tank adjustment: +2.0kg (aluminum)
Salt water factor: ×1.03
Total ballast: ~13.5kg
Wetsuit Temperature Guide
1-2mm Wetsuit
26-28°C (79-82°F)
Tropical waters
3mm Wetsuit
24-27°C (75-81°F)
Warm waters
5mm Wetsuit
18-25°C (64-77°F)
Temperate waters
7mm Wetsuit
12-21°C (54-70°F)
Cold waters
Safety Tips
Always perform a buoyancy check before diving
Start with calculated weight and adjust as needed
Consult dive master for local conditions
Consider weight distribution for stability
Practice buoyancy control in pool first
Understanding Scuba Diving Weight and Buoyancy
What is Neutral Buoyancy?
Neutral buoyancy is the state where a diver neither sinks nor floats, but remains suspended in the water column. This is achieved by balancing the diver's weight with their buoyancy, allowing for effortless movement underwater and better air consumption.
Why Proper Weighting Matters
- •Reduces energy expenditure and air consumption
- •Prevents damage to coral reefs and marine life
- •Improves safety and emergency response capability
- •Enhances underwater photography and navigation
Factors Affecting Buoyancy
Body Composition
Muscle is denser than fat, affecting natural buoyancy
Water Salinity
Salt water (1030 kg/m³) vs fresh water (1000 kg/m³)
Exposure Protection
Wetsuit neoprene traps air and adds buoyancy
Equipment Choice
Steel vs aluminum tanks, BCD size, accessories
Water Density Effects
Higher density means more buoyant force and potentially more weight needed