When can I wear a wetsuit?
Rule- South Africa
- Triathlon South Africa
- World Triathlon rules
- Age-Group 16+
- 2026
- Athletes
Wetsuit use depends on the water temperature, the swim length and your age group (World Triathlon rule 4.2):
Age-groupers from the youngest category up to 55-59:
| Swim length | Wetsuit forbidden | Wetsuit mandatory |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1500 m | 22 °C and above | 15.9 °C and below |
| 1501 m and longer | 24.6 °C and above | 15.9 °C and below |
Age-groupers 60-64 and older:
| Swim length | Wetsuit forbidden | Wetsuit mandatory |
|---|---|---|
| All distances | 24.6 °C and above | 15.9 °C and below |
Between those temperatures, a wetsuit is optional.
Related rules:
- In a non-wetsuit swim, you may not wear your bib number. In a wetsuit swim you may (rule 2.9).
- In transition, you may undo your wetsuit top on the way to your spot, but only remove it fully at your spot or a designated area, with your torso covered (rule 7.1).
Added 22 Oct 2026