What to Wear for a Surfski Adventure in South Africa

The golden rule of ocean paddling is to dress for the water temperature rather than the air temperature, because at some point you will be in it. Cape Town makes that rule unusually important: a 30°C summer day can sit above 12°C Atlantic water.

Summer clothing (December to March)

• Long-sleeve rashvest or paddling top for sun protection.
• Boardshorts or paddling shorts over a swimming costume.
• Thin neoprene shorts if you feel the cold on the Atlantic side.
• Cap or visor with a chin cord, and a buff for the wind.

Winter clothing (May to September)

• A 2mm shorty or spring wetsuit, or a paddling-specific long john that leaves the shoulders free.
• A windproof paddling cag over the top on cold, wet days.
• Neoprene beanie and thin neoprene gloves or pogies for early mornings.
• Dry clothes and a warm hat waiting in the car for the end of the paddle.

Wetsuits: yes or no?

A full surfing wetsuit restricts torso rotation and overheats you while paddling, so most local paddlers avoid it. A shorty, long john or thermal paddling top gives immersion protection without limiting the stroke. On guided sessions we advise per day based on water temperature, wind and how long you will be out.

Personal flotation device

Wear a low-profile paddling PFD, not a bulky boating lifejacket. It should sit above the seat line, allow full shoulder movement, and have a pocket for a phone pouch or flares on longer runs. Provided on all our tours.

Leash

An ankle leash attaching you to the ski is the most important safety item you will wear. A surfski blows downwind faster than any swimmer can chase it. Many paddlers also add a paddle leash on downwind runs.

Sunglasses and sun protection

Polarised sunglasses with a retainer cord cut the glare and help you read the water. Use a water-resistant SPF 50 on face, ears, neck and the backs of the hands, and reapply after a swim. Zinc-based sticks last far longer than lotion in salt water.

Footwear

Most paddlers go barefoot in the footwell. For rocky launches at Miller's Point or Kommetjie, thin neoprene booties or water shoes protect your feet without catching on the pedals.

Useful extras

• Waterproof phone pouch on a lanyard.
• Hydration bladder or deck bottle for paddles over an hour.
• Small dry bag with a snack and a light windproof layer.
• Towel and a change of warm clothes for afterwards.