How can you manage buoyancy effectively in a dry suit?

Managing buoyancy effectively in a dry suit primarily involves the strategic use of the suit's inflation and exhaust valves. When divers wear a dry suit, they have to contend with the additional air trapped inside the suit that affects buoyancy. By utilizing the inflation valve, a diver can introduce air into the suit to increase buoyancy, while the exhaust valve allows for the release of air to decrease buoyancy. This fine-tuning is essential for achieving neutral buoyancy, which is vital for safe and efficient diving.

The air inside the dry suit behaves similarly to air in a buoyancy control device (BCD) — adding air increases the size and the buoyancy of the suit, while releasing air allows the diver to descend more easily. Proper management of this air contributes to the diver’s ability to control their ascent, descent, and hover without unnecessary effort or risk.

While other methods such as using weights, adjusting fin position, or controlling breathing patterns can support buoyancy management, the most direct and effective means in a dry suit is through the careful manipulation of the suit's inflation and exhaust valves. These valves empower the diver to actively manage their buoyancy as they adjust to changing underwater conditions.