30lbs+ of weight is a lot to put in a belt, or in an integrated BC. When I dive dry I use a SS BP/STA. That weights approx. 12lbs, and that is twelve less pounds on the belt.
The DUI weight system is a good answer for a lot of weight. I find putting much over 20lbs on a belt makes for a heavy belt.
I'm not sure I think a weight belt is a better solution than a weight integrated BC for the majority of divers. I've seen belts fall off of divers, or hanging off their ankles. The couple that died off Boynton beach about a year ago did so in part because the divers girlfriend attempted to dump his belt only to have it catch around a rope they were tangled in.
This is a personal preference, and subjective. My experience is that weight integrated systems are easier especially for new divers. Where they run into issues is when one is pushing the weight limit of the BC (33lbs hits that).
Someone mentioned that they see weight pockets on the reef on a regular basis. That is most likely user error. The current crop of weight integrated BC's does not have the *self release* feature (OK, Defect!
) that a couple models in the past displayed. However with those types of systems, one has to make sure that the pocket is inserted correctly! :11doh:
I personally love the Zeagle system for this reason. No expensive weight pockets that limit the weight configuration, and are sometimes difficult to clip in. Just put the weight in the weight pocket, zip it, and no worries.
To the OP, I hate to say it, but a heavy BP/STA and some channel weight would go a long way towards reducing the amount of weight you need on a belt. OTOH, you are back to a heavy BC, but SOMETHING has to be heavy!