April is notorious for its unpredictability. One day the sun shines and it feels like summer, the next brings rain and cold wind. Whether you can wear shorts in April depends almost entirely on that specific day's weather — not the month itself.
What are the average temperatures in April?
Average daytime temperatures in April run between 12 and 16°C in the Netherlands. That might sound acceptable, but the reality is more variable. Early April regularly sits at 8–10°C during the day. Late April can see peaks of 20°C or above.
| Period | Avg. daytime temp. | Feels-like temp. with wind |
|---|---|---|
| Early April | 10–12°C | 6–9°C |
| Mid April | 12–14°C | 8–12°C |
| Late April | 14–18°C | 10–16°C |
When can it work?
Shorts in April are realistic when:
- Air temperature exceeds 16°C
- Little or no wind (below 15 km/h)
- Sun is shining and it's dry
On such days the feels-like temperature can reach 20–22°C even if the thermometer reads only 17°C. That's comfortable enough for shorts.
Can you wear shorts today?
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When is it better to skip it?
April has a treacherous side. A cloudy April day at 14°C with 30 km/h wind feels like 9°C. Shorts are uncomfortable then, even though the temperature on paper doesn't seem bad.
An added risk: April showers roll in fast. You step outside in sunshine and find yourself in a downpour by afternoon. Wet clothing at 12°C feels cold.
The role of acclimatisation
After a long winter your body is used to cold. 16°C in April therefore feels warmer than it would in September. This isn't imagination — blood vessels respond differently to cold after a period of adaptation. Early in the season you can get away with shorts at temperatures that might not support them later.
Conclusion
Shorts in April are certainly possible, but far from guaranteed. Always check the feels-like temperature, wind speed and rain probability for your location on that specific day.
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