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—— Gear Review · Weights

Leaderfins Neck Weight

1 kg / 2 kg / 3 kg · Basic rubber/PVC coating · Hook closure

The cheapest option that works: fine for trying neck weighting on a tight budget, but the comfort and stability shortfalls are noticeable compared to Molchanovs and Salvimar.

6.8 / 10
—— Verdict
Budget option only
Leaderfins · Weights
—— Price (USD)
~$35
Affiliate link · disclosed below
—— What we like
  • + Very low price, lowest in the category
  • + Three weight increments including 3 kg for divers needing more
  • + Functional for its intended purpose
—— What to know
  • − Basic shape: not anatomically contoured, shifts more than premium options
  • − Coating quality lower, may need neoprene padding for comfort on long sessions
  • − Hook closure is slower in emergency situations
Marcus Webb
Marcus Webb
Freediving Researcher and Editor
Published · Jun 22, 2025 Updated · Apr 28, 2026
— Section 01

Overview

The Leaderfins neck weight exists for one specific buyer: someone who wants to test neck weighting at minimum cost before committing to a premium product. It works. It holds the weight on your neck, and for short sessions in calm conditions, the shape limitation doesn't matter much.

For regular training use (multiple sessions per week, extended sessions) the comfort gap relative to the Molchanovs and Salvimar weights becomes apparent fairly quickly. The coating is firmer and the shape less refined, which makes it a better trial weight than a long-term one.

If you're not sure neck weighting helps your trim, the Leaderfins is the cheapest way to find out. The Omer neck weight is the other low-cost trial option, at around $10 more.

—— Frequently asked

Questions about
Leaderfins Neck Weight.

01 Is the Leaderfins neck weight comfortable for long sessions? +
Less so than Molchanovs or Salvimar. The PVC/rubber coating is firmer and the shape is less contoured. For sessions over 60 minutes, some divers find it necessary to add a thin neoprene sleeve between the weight and the wetsuit. This is workable but adds inconvenience. At this price point, it's an expected compromise.
02 Why is a 3 kg neck weight sometimes needed? +
Divers in very thick wetsuits (7mm+) in cold water, or divers with strong positive buoyancy for their body type, sometimes need more than 2 kg neck weight to correct trim. The Leaderfins 3 kg option fills this gap; most premium brands max out at 2 kg.
—— Compare with

Related weights reviews.

freediving-weights

Molchanovs Neck Weight Review: The Category Standard

The benchmark neck weight: anatomical shape, rubber protection, and reliable quick-release that doesn't shift on duck dives. Worth the premium over budget options.
freediving-weights

Salvimar N.A.T. Neck Weight Review: Best Value Neck Weight

The practical alternative to the Molchanovs: ergonomic shape, softer rubber, three weight options, and a lower price that makes sense for most recreational divers.
freediving-weights

Omer Rubber Neck Weight Review: Budget Pick

Does the job at a lower price: durable rubber, reliable hook clasp, and functional for recreational use, with less refined positioning than Molchanovs or Salvimar.
Freediving Guides · 2026 Edition 04
—— Sources

What this article is based on

  1. AIDA International, the world freediving federationAIDA International
  2. Freediving safetyDivers Alert Network (Alert Diver)
  3. SSI Freediving programs and certification levelsScuba Schools International