Dry suit weighting

[beeger]

Don't stress it. Regarding weighting, all the advice in the world won't get you more than "close" until you jump in the water and start figuring out what you need. Then, over the course of some dives with your new suit as you become more comfortable you will probably drop a couple lbs.

A BP/wings is a sweet setup. If you go with a steel BP, as opposed to aluminum, you get about 6 lbs just by wearing the BP. Sure I would recommend switching, but do it because of the fact that, IMHO, it is a superior setup, not just for the weight options.

I used to dive the Balance. I know the BC well. It’s a good BC, as far as BCs go. With a drysuit, full insulation, and an aluminum tank, it is going to be close to maxed out. You might be able to squeeze it all in, but how comfortable will it be? I'm not sure. As I mentioned those weight pockets can hold 10, but are much more comfortable (and safer) with 7 or less (if you have the new Balance with the fancy weight retainers the “secure-ness” of the velcro might be less of an issue). The trim pockets can hold 5, but are more comfortable with 4 or less. As soon as the ice clears, head out to Square Lake and start experimenting.

Steel tanks are a really good idea around here. Do you own aluminum tanks? If not, then just rent steels. I believe Northland Divers rents steels, as does GUDC (but avoid 8" diameter steel tanks (95s) - the tank strap on the Balance will not hold onto a tank that wide securely). A steel tank alone should help you drop 3-4 lbs. If you are serious about diving cold water frequently, save up and get yourself a couple steel tanks. With the Balance, the OMS/Faber 85s would be an excellent choice. With a BP/harness, your options are much more open.

I think the Balance would work with a steel tank, but that depends on you and your body type. With an aluminum tank, unless you are a small, very lean person, I'm not quite sure. But maybe. It will work just fine, regardless, if you add additional weight through a weightbelt, but that's kind of an annoyance.

In summary, yes, move to a BP/harness. I think you will be much happier, but you will still have weight distribution issues to deal with. In the mean time, plan for what you know and start experimenting as soon as possible. Heck, even though you might sweat off 10 lbs, join Admin Chris for one of the pool outings and start experimenting there.