How tight should weight belt be ?

[ryan65]

Hi
I recently went diving with 16 pounds (2 x 6 , 2x2) , full wet suit 5 mm.
I realized that the belt was a little tight and it interfered with my ability to take a full breath with the belly .
so I loosened the belt a little but then when I dove , the belt rose a little above my waist.
So I am wondering how do you keep the belt loose enough to enable maximum expansion of stomach and yet stay in place during the dive.

 

[Irishdiver]

You should be wearing a rubber or silicone belt and it should be around your hips not your belly.

 

[Bill McIntyre]

Many people use crotch straps.

Neptonics Weight Belt Crotch Strap

Our Weight Belt Crotch Strap stops any horizontal or vertical movement of your weight belt allowing you to focus on your spearfishing, get yours today!

neptonics.com

 

[Mr. X]

Yes, stretchy belt; I like the Marseille type buckle. Yes crotch strap , you could probably make one but ensure your belt can still quick release.

I use a slightly stretchy RA rubber belt. Never used a crotch strap, thought about it but rarely felt the need for it. However, I have been using a camo Mares weight vest in recent years; it's nice to take some weight off the belt.

Again, you need to be able to dump the weights, quickly and cleanly, in an emergency. So I keep most weight on my belt and should be able to slip the vest off too, if necessary.

BTW I usually carry more weight than you with my 5mm wetsuit, especially if spearing in shallower water. I also have a small weight I can clip to D-ring on my belt for fine adjustment. Take the weight vest off for greater adjustment?

 

[MAKO Spearguns]

Quick Release Weight Vest ("zero drag")

The MAKO Spearguns Quick Release Weight Vest is equipped with an innovative quick release system that allows you to instantly remove it with one quick movement with just one hand

makospearguns.com

Weight Belt Crotch Strap

The MAKO Spearguns Weight Belt Crotch Strap keeps your weights in place preventing your weight belt from sliding up when you descend.

makospearguns.com