Weight for a 5 mm wetsuit: what to know
A full 5 mm suit adds about 4 kg of lift in this model. Suits age: old neoprene has compressed and floats less, so an old 5 mm may need less lead than a new one.
Worked example
For an 80 kg diver with an average build, wearing a 5 mm wetsuit and using an aluminum 80 tank in saltwater, the calculator estimates 6.5 kg (14.5 lb). Your number will differ with your body and gear, so enter your own values above and then do a buoyancy check.
Common questions
How much weight for a 5 mm wetsuit?
About 4 kg more than no suit for an average diver. See the estimate above for your numbers.
Why did I need less weight after a year?
Neoprene loses bubbles with use and compression, so it floats less.
Is 5 mm the default in the calculator?
Yes, with an aluminum 80 tank in saltwater, because it is a common all-round setup.
Do I need a hood with a 5 mm suit?
Often in cooler water. A hood adds about 1 kg of lift, so re-check your weighting when you add one.
How much lead does a 5 mm suit add compared with no suit?
About 4 kg in this model, before any adjustment for tank or water.
Related calculators
Weight for a 7 mm wetsuitWeight for a drysuitWeight when diving without a wetsuitHow much weight do I need?
