This page is an English translation of the original Italian article. The original publication date and historical context have been preserved.
Many divers rarely perform a genuine weight check. Newer divers may simply ask the guide how much lead to use or may deliberately overweight themselves. More experienced divers often rely on a familiar configuration and adjust it from memory.
This article looks at the factors involved in weighting and why the answer is more nuanced than choosing a number of kilograms.
How is a weight check performed?
The original method described entering the water in the complete configuration, with the BCD empty and a nearly depleted cylinder, then adding enough weight to float around eye level while holding a normal breath. In that condition, exhaling should allow a controlled descent and inhaling should create a small upward response.
The exact procedure taught by agencies may differ, so use the method prescribed in your training and confirm the result with a qualified professional.
How much weight should I start with?
Starting from zero and adding weight piece by piece can be slow. In warm water with little exposure protection, only a small amount may be required. A thick wetsuit, drysuit and buoyant accessories can substantially change the result. Rules based on a percentage of body weight are only rough starting points—not final answers.
What about the gas in the cylinder?
The gas itself has weight. A cylinder becomes lighter as gas is consumed, so a diver who is correctly weighted at the beginning may become too buoyant near the end unless this change has been considered. The final check therefore matters most with a low cylinder pressure and the actual equipment that will be used.
Fresh water or salt water?
Salt water is denser than fresh water, which increases buoyancy. A configuration that is correct in a lake may require additional ballast in the sea. The difference is often several kilograms for a fully equipped diver.
After considering the suit, equipment, cylinder, remaining gas and type of water, verify the result in a controlled environment. The goal is to complete the dive and hold a safety stop neutrally with a realistic reserve pressure—not to carry unnecessary lead.
