Posted by Robin on November 02, 2001 at 10:20:07:
In Reply to: Speaking of wetsuit buoyancy... posted by Maciek on November 01, 2001 at 12:56:56:
this has worked great for me: put the wetsuit in a mesh bag (big gamebag, laundry bag, etc.) jump in the pool either with or without SCUBA and a nice assortment of weights attached (start with 25-30lbs)to the drawstring or handle of the bag in a manner where some of it can be removed (down to 15lb for full 6mm). squeeze out as many bubbles from the suit as you can while underwater then begin removing weight in small increments until the suit lifts off the bottom then return two lbs. I have found (just for universal measure) that Sport Chalet rental wetsuits one piece/xxl/6mm takes 18lbs to sink at the surface in freshwater (if no one pees in the pool!) and about 1 1/2 lbs less at 9 ft. Of course saltwater makes it more buoyant that's why I put back the two lb. I guess it sounds complicated but it is real basic and effective and I feel it's good to know the numbers for the suit!