Scuba Weights and Belts

About

Both scuba divers and freedivers use Diving Weights and Belts to descend into deeper waters and stay submerged. Weight distribution also helps to trim the diver properly. Dip ‘N Dive carries a large selection of weights, including uncoated, hard-coated, lead shot weights, ankle weights, and weights that integrate directly to your BCD. In addition to that, we offer a variety of weight belts, pockets, and assorted accessories. At Dip ‘N Dive you can easily find a combination of products to create a perfectly fitting dive weighting system. Learn How to Choose Dive Weights What Are the Different Dive Belts & Weights? Weight belts are the most common weighting system currently used for recreational diving. Scuba diving belts are normally made of tough nylon webbing and have a quick-release buckle that helps to drop the weight rapidly in case of emergency. The weights, used with a weight belt are usually simple rectangular lead blocks with slots for straps in them. The lead is used because of its high density and resistance to corrosion. Some weights are coated in plastic, for even better corrosion resistance. These weights are also considered to be less abrasive to wetsuits. Some weight belts hold a number of pouches that can be filled with normal lead weights or soft weights - bags with small lead shots. This system enables the diver to add or remove weight more easily than with weights threaded onto the belt. Another benefit of using soft weights is that they conform to the diver’s body and are, therefore, more comfortable to carry. Freedivers use weights primarily to counteract the buoyancy of a wetsuit. However, they are more likely to weight for neutral buoyancy at a specific depth, and thus must take into account the compression of the air in their lungs. Unlike scuba divers, freedivers rarely use nylon belts. A more popular choice is a rubber belt or, as it’s also called, a Marseillaise belt. These belts contract on the descent as the diving suit and lungs are