Cape Town has two very different oceans on its doorstep, and the right wetsuit depends on which side you surf and what time of year it is. Use this guide to match your wetsuit thickness to the water temperature, then shop the right suit with confidence.
Cape Town water temperatures at a glance
| Area | Typical summer water | Typical winter water |
|---|---|---|
| False Bay (Muizenberg, St James, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek) | Around 16 to 21°C | Around 13 to 16°C |
| Atlantic Seaboard (Llandudno, Long Beach, Big Bay, Dungeons) | Around 10 to 15°C, colder after strong south easters | Around 11 to 14°C |
These are typical ranges only. The Atlantic side can drop several degrees overnight when the summer south easter pushes cold water up from the deep, so always check the conditions before you paddle out.
Which wetsuit thickness do I need?
| Water temperature | Recommended wetsuit | Extras to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Above 19°C | Springsuit or 2mm wetsuit top | Rash vest for sun protection |
| 16 to 21°C | 3/2mm full wetsuit | None needed for most surfers |
| 12 to 16°C | 4/3mm full wetsuit | Booties for longer sessions |
| Below 12°C | 5/4mm wetsuit, ideally hooded | Booties, gloves and a hood |
Our recommendation for Cape Town
If you only buy one wetsuit, make it a 4/3mm. It covers most of the year in False Bay and handles all but the coldest days on the Atlantic side. Add a 3/2mm for summer in False Bay, or a 5/4mm if you surf the Atlantic Seaboard through winter or chase big waves.
Other things that affect warmth
- Fit: a snug wetsuit with no gaps keeps you far warmer than a thicker suit that lets water flush through. Check the size chart for your brand.
- Zip and seams: chest zip suits and sealed or taped seams keep more water out than back zip suits with stitched seams.
- Wind and air temperature: a cold wind on a cloudy day can make the same water feel much colder.
- How long you stay in: for long sessions, go one step warmer than the water temperature suggests.
Need help choosing?
Pop into our shop at 112 Main Road, Kalk Bay, or get in touch and our team will help you choose the right wetsuit for where and when you surf. You can also browse all wetsuits.