What wetsuit for surfing in South Africa
Water from about 14 °C in September to 25 °C in January, from the sea temperature at 45 surf spots.
| Month | Water | Wetsuit |
|---|---|---|
| January | 16–25 °C | 🥋 4/3 mm fullsuit boots |
| February | 15–25 °C | 🥋 4/3 mm fullsuit boots in winter |
| March | 15–25 °C | 🥋 4/3 mm fullsuit boots |
| April | 16–25 °C | 🥋 4/3 mm fullsuit boots |
| May | 15–24 °C | 🥋 4/3 mm fullsuit boots |
| June | 14–23 °C | 🧤 5/4 mm hooded boots + gloves |
| July | 14–22 °C | 🧤 5/4 mm hooded boots + gloves |
| August | 14–21 °C | 🧤 5/4 mm hooded boots + gloves |
| September | 14–22 °C | 🧤 5/4 mm hooded boots + gloves |
| October | 14–22 °C | 🧤 5/4 mm hooded boots + gloves |
| November | 14–23 °C | 🧤 5/4 mm hooded boots + gloves |
| December | 15–25 °C | 🥋 4/3 mm fullsuit boots |
By region
The coast is not one temperature: the coldest and warmest month in each region.
| Region | Coldest | Warmest |
|---|---|---|
| Western Cape | November: 14 °C, 5/4 mm hooded | January: 23 °C, Springsuit 2 mm or vest |
| Overberg, Western Cape | August: 15 °C, 4/3 mm fullsuit | January: 22 °C, Springsuit 2 mm or vest |
| Garden Route, Western Cape | August: 16 °C, 4/3 mm fullsuit | January: 22 °C, Springsuit 2 mm or vest |
| Eastern Cape | August: 16 °C, 4/3 mm fullsuit | January: 22 °C, Springsuit 2 mm or vest |
| KwaZulu-Natal | August: 21 °C, Springsuit 2 mm or vest | February: 26 °C, Boardshorts / rash vest |
Surf towns
Questions
What wetsuit do I need to surf in South Africa in winter?
The sea is about 15–25 °C from December to February: a 4/3 mm fullsuit (boots in winter).
What wetsuit do I need to surf in South Africa in summer?
About 14–22 °C from June to August: a 5/4 mm hooded.
Can I surf in boardshorts in South Africa?
Yes, when the water reaches about 24 °C: at the warmest spots in January.
Do I need boots, gloves or a hood in South Africa?
In the coldest months, yes: about 14 °C in September calls for boots + gloves.