SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Practice Exam 2025 - Free Scuba Diver Practice Questions and Study Guide

The standard weight limit for recreational diving tanks is typically around 80 cubic feet, which is the most common size for aluminum tanks used in recreational diving. This size strikes a balance between providing enough air for a typical dive and remaining manageable in terms of weight and buoyancy for divers.

Tanks designed for recreational diving are made to be lightweight, allowing divers to maneuver easily and ensuring that they can comfortably carry the tanks on land and in the water. The 80 cubic foot tank is widely accepted in the diving community, and its size supports the average dive profile for both beginner and experienced divers alike while adhering to standard industry practices.

Tanks larger than 80 cubic feet are available and can be beneficial for specific diving conditions or extended dive times, but they are less common as standard options for recreational divers. Smaller tanks, while easier to handle, may not provide sufficient air for many dive profiles, which makes the 80 cubic feet tank the industry standard.