I tested « heavy feet » diving: an adventure out of time under the sea!

A dive initiation like no other in Saint-Pierre Bay

After two years of mission in the Caribbean, the call of the unknown presented itself to me in the form of an initiation offered by Jacques-Yves Imbert, an iconic figure in diving in Saint-Pierre Bay. Surprised, I reminded Jacques-Yves that I already had a state certification, proof of some experience in diving. But his promise of new sensations piqued my curiosity, and I agreed to play along.

An unusual meeting and gear

On the dock of the port of Saint-Pierre, Jacques-Yves introduces me to Pierre Passot (see box), a great specialist in diving equipment, already preparing some quite unusual gear. Despite my title as a trimix instructor, used to handling multiple tanks, I discovered something entirely different here: no air tanks, but instead long hoses, a massive pump, a very heavy diver’s helmet equipped with portholes, two large weights, and strange shoes with thick soles. A magnificent diver’s knife is prominently displayed nearby. To complete the outfit, a thick canvas drysuit is handed to me before being asked to sit so that I can be meticulously equipped.

The dressing ritual

I feel almost regal: everything is ready to dress me like a president! However, it’s impossible to equip oneself here: it’s a whole team that must help me put on this historical gear, for an unprecedented ‘heavy feet’ initiation for me. I admit I appreciate these attentions, so I let myself be guided without protest.

Putting on the drysuit doesn’t really unsettle me, being already used to it, except that this one, very rigid, offers a unique sensation. Then comes a heavy strapping loaded with lead that compresses my chest and back, not to mention an unusually looking ventral safety block. At this moment, I guess the difficulty in getting up or even standing: I really feel like I weigh a ton.

The helmet’s placement accentuates this feeling of heaviness, although it remains open at the front: I do not feel claustrophobic yet. Firmly attached to the collar with solid copper bolts, it becomes impossible to lose it accidentally. An additional weight is felt when I am connected to the air supply hose. Finally, as the cherry on top, these famous diver’s shoes, massive, literally pin me to the ground. I immediately understand why these divers are called the ‘heavy feet’.