Fresh vs. Salt water weights

[jasondbaker]

I've heard some rough formulas based on your body weight. For example, one formula proposes that the diver wears 5% of their body weight.  These are only rough estimates because the amount of weight required can vary significantly depending on the exposure suit, tank size, BC type, body mass, diver experience level, and salt or fresh water. 

If you know your freshwater weight requirements in a given exposure suit/BC/tank configuration you should plan to add a couple more pounds for salt water diving. 

Equipment can make a big difference though.  When I dive in salt water with a regular jacket BC and full 3mm suit I need 8-10lbs of lead.  When I dive with an aluminum backplate+wing I only need 3lbs. I'm 6-2", 195lbs.