Best changing robes 2024: tried and tested by outdoor swimming experts
With autumn water temperatures approaching, now is a good time to invest in or update your changing robe. Our outdoor swimming experts have tested the best changing robes for 2024 – so whether you’re after winter warmth and waterproofing, lightweight and packable or innovative design there is a robe for you
Winter warmth & waterproof
Best all-weather changing robe | SPEEDO Therma Change Robe, £250
Best changing robe to pack into a tow float | VIVIDA All Weather Sherpa Changing Robe, £165
Best changing robe for wind and rain | ORCA Thermal Parka, £119
ZONE3 Recycled Thermo-Tech Changing Robe
£149
They say: The versatile design of the Thermo-Tech Robe protects you from the elements and keeps you warm, whatever the activity. Perfect for changing, wearing as a relaxed outer layer or keeping warm between swims, the oversized design with a longer length allows for ample changing room while the Thermo-Tech Fleece regulates your core temperature and wicks away moisture to get you dry faster.
We say: We loved the robe’s oversized design – it certainly allowed plenty of room to change in. The hood was a roomy size too, which worked particularly well for our tester who likes to wrap their wet hair in a towel. We wore the robe on a rainy and breezy trip to the beach and felt protected from the elements by the outer shell and wind guard around the neck. The fleece lining felt soft and snug and it dried quickly once home. Zips on changing robes can be troublesome, but the two-way zips and pull chords made putting on and taking off the robe a doddle.
SPEEDO Therma Change Robe
£250
They say: The Speedo Change Robe is the perfect cold weather companion. Roomy enough to change beneath, it includes a Sherpa fleece lining and large hood for post-swim warmth. The windproof and waterproof ripstop Berghaus Hydroshell offers protection from the elements, while the mid-layer reflective aluminium scrim maximises heat retention. Its utility-style ticks all the style boxes and includes drop-shoulder sleeves for easy changing and wrist gaiters for a draught-free fit.
We say: There’s been some real thought and insight behind this robe’s thermal design and it transitions seamlessly between changing robe and post-swim coat. The inner fleeces dries quickly while the mid-layer contains an aluminium scrim construction, which bounces back body-heat without the weight of a bulky jacket. A functional, stylish and genuinely weatherproof robe that provides an exceptional level of warmth without the weight you would expect.
SUNDFOERR Elements Adventure Robe
£155
They say: Inspired by our love for exploring the North Norfolk coast, we created Sundfœrr (meaning ‘able to swim’ in old Nordic), an all-round adventure robe that blends style and warmth. Purposely oversized for ease of changing, the Adventure Robe keeps you dry, warm and cosy whatever the adventure.
We say: Waterproof and windproof, the Sundfoerr robe is thoughtfully designed with plenty of useful pockets, including a zip-up inner pocket for valuables, two outer fleece-lined pockets for warming hands (with a carabiner for your keys) and a roomy inner fleece pocket for a hot water bottle. The roomy toggle-cinched hood kept us warm, with room for a hat underneath, and the double zips felt suitably robust. It’s slightly lighter than others on test, while still having a thick and toasty fleece lining that felt soft on the skin.
VIVIDA All Weather Sherpa Changing Robe
£165
They say: Get changed, keep dry and stay warm with Vivida’s technologically advanced, eco-friendly, insulated and waterproof changing coat. Sustainably made of recycled post-consumer plastic, the high performance outer shell is your first defence from the elements; the cosy Sherpa fleece lining keeps in the warmth whilst wicking away moisture.
We say: We really rated Vivida’s new and improved All Weather Sherpa Robe, now featuring longer arm lengths, better waterproof sealed seams and reinforced hanging loop and pockets. The sherpa fleece, a synthetic ‘lambswool’ which warms the body while wicking water away from the skin, has also been extended to the bottom of the coat. We particularly liked the stash bag, which lets you neatly pack the robe away so it can be stowed in a tow float. Waterproof to 5,000mm, the outer shell feels soft to touch and has a four-way stretch for easy changing.
SURF SWIM PADDLE Explorer Changing Robe
£125
They say: The Explorer robe was originally designed for surfers, swimmers and stand-up paddle boarders. It’s also the perfect companion for standing on the touchline watching football, rugby or netball games, ideal for festivals, camping and dog walking. The robe cleverly combines a weather-resistant outer with a super-warm inner fleece lining made with 100% recycled fabrics.
We say: Waterproof to 10,000mm, the Explorer Changing Robe is designed to withstand all weathers with considered design touches such as stretchy thumbhole cuffs, an adjustable hood with storm peak, and velcro fastenings and storm flaps to prevent wind and rain penetrating the zips. Whether you’re wearing it to change, as an after-swim coat or to stand on a touchline in the howling rain, this robe should have your back.
ORCA Thermal Parka
£119
They say: This waterproof mid-length parka with a fleece lining will keep you warm in low temperatures, before and after workouts and competitions. Its windproof outer fabric keeps the cold air out, while its fleece lining conserves body heat. This material is also highly resistant to abrasion, ensuring its durability. The Parka features two exterior pockets with waterproof zippers and an interior pocket to protect your gear and keep it within reach.
We say: More like a changing coat, the Parka has a soft, fur-like lining which is cosy and warm. It is a stylish choice for winter swimming when you just want to get dry, dressed and then throw this on. The outer material is seriously weatherproof. Lovely deep outer pockets and an inside pocket for phone. There is a double zip for ease when changing too.
WHITE WATER Hard Shell Robe
£140
They say: The White Water Hard Shell Robe is created from a durable 135gsm ripstop recycled nylon. The outer fabric is backed by a waterproof and breathable TPU membrane which offers fantastic performance. A figure of over 5000mm is achieved on a Hydra Static Water Test, keeping you dry in all conditions. 300gsm recycled polyester sherpa fleece lining- keeping you warm, dry and wicking moisture and sweat away from the body.
We say: A well-designed changing robe, with a lot of room to change and a high-quality lining to aid drying. It feels exceptionally durable and hard; a solid robe for all weather conditions. The robe itself is made from recycled eco circle fibres; an environmentally friendly design that doesn’t scrimp on quality.
Vivida All Weather Puffer Changing Robe
£240
They say: Vivida’s technologically advanced, eco-friendly, insulated and rainproof changing coat. This puffer changing robe is designed to shelter you in every weather condition, elevating the comfort and ease of your waterside changing, all year round. Sustainably made, the high-performance outer shell, made of 100% recycled plastic, is the ultimate defence from the elements. Inside, the honeycomb lining combined with the ultra-insulating, QuiltedCloud fill, traps warmth to preserve your body heat.
We say: A lot of thought has gone into the robe, including a zip on the inside pocket to keep valuables safe as well as a netted pocket with drawstring bag to store the robe in when travelling. It is bulky, but we were able to stuff it into a 30l tow float. Roomy for changing and decent weatherproof credentials.
Stylish changing robes
Best budget changing robe | KITBRIX Poncho, £99.90
Most stylish changing robe | D-ROBE Beaufort Robe, £155
D-ROBE Beaufort Robe
£155
They say: The Beaufort Robe is the perfect accessory when you’re packing for an active weekend away and need a reliable outdoor robe. Beige tones are forever versatile, making this a neutral outdoor coat that can be worn whilst out exploring or simply running errands. The grey fleece interior continues the understated theme, complemented by bold red pockets and a removable pouch that add a pop of colour. Made from tough, high quality and sustainably sourced materials, the Beaufort Robe is a durable changing robe and an effortless fashion statement.
We say: While it’s hard to combine outdoor swimming with looking stylish, the D-Robe will give you a good shot at it. Luckily, it also combines looks with functionality. Although it’s a little narrow for comfortably changing, you feel immediately protected from the elements. It has deep, fleece-lined hand-warming pockets plus two internal zip pockets. The removable zip up waterproof pouch for a wet costume is a nice touch.
KITBRIX Poncho
£99.90
They say: The KitBrix Poncho is the perfect comfort companion for those all-day sports events, post-race recovery or stashing at the side of the pool. The oversized fit gives plenty of room for tucking your arms in, keeping warm and drying off. The breathable waterproof outer shell, made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, will fight off the wind and rain with ease, whilst the fast-drying fleece lining draws away moisture to deliver instant warmth.
We say: The only over-the-head poncho style on test, we wanted to include the Kitbrix Poncho as it’s a really inexpensive, warm and functional robe. The oversized fit and wide but shortish sleeves make for a very easy change. The outer shell is waterproof and breathable and, without the zips, keeps the wind out and doesn’t allow rain to creep in. It dries quickly and there’s a hidden zipped pocket inside the hand pouch for keeping valuables safe. For the price, it’s a really solid and well-made choice.
SEASHELL Changing robe 3.0
£150
They say: The Seashell Robe 3.0 is designed for convenience, allowing you to change in any setting while offering protection from harsh weather conditions. Every inch of the robe is graced with considerate embroidery, from the unique shell design that marks our signature to the stitched pockets.
We say: We love the attention to detail and the eye-catching embroidered ammonite on the Seashell robe; it’s almost impossible to wear it without receiving compliments. It’s exceptionally well-made and functional, too. The 3.0 version we tested is waterproof to 10,000mm with an eco-friendly coating that forms an impenetrable barrier against wind and water, while the sherpa fleece is moisture-wicking. Another considered feature is the improved sleeve design, which allows for easy changing even with the slimmer fit of the 3.0 version.
Changing robes with print & pattern
Most robust and durable changing robe | DRYROBE Advance Long Sleeve Changing Robe, £165
Best choice of prints | PASSENGER Waves Recycled Sherpa Lined Changing Robe, £119.95
BRAKEBURN Orla Chinook Changing Robe
£144.99
They say: The Brakeburn Orla Chinook is a showerproof changing robe designed for the elements. Featuring an olive green ikat-style pattern with contrasting mustard zip, the Orla is no ordinary beach robe. It’s an oversized fit, for easy changing, with internal and outer pockets. Wear it after paddleboarding, a morning swim or on a coastal dog walk.
We say: This is one cosy robe! The full sherpa lining ensures it’s warming while the showerproof outer kept the wind off damp skin. The generous sizing ensures it’s useable as a change robe; we managed to wriggle in and out of our suit. We also loved the inside pocket, always handy for keys or phone. The print and natural colour made it a lovely choice for style as well as substance; the yellow zip and detail is beautiful. We had lots of compliments and didn’t feel embarrassed wearing it away from the waterside. It is also machine washable – which is so practical.
PASSENGER Waves Recycled Sherpa Lined Changing Robe
£119.95
They say: A lightweight robe, which packs down small, made from recycled polyester outer with a water resistant coating. Featuring a zip-up chest pocket, updated hand pockets with hand-warming tricot lining, adjustable velcro on the cuffs, a two-way zip and side slits for easy changing and an internal patch pocket.
We say: The Waves robe comes in nine fantastic all-over prints and colour blocks from whimsical 80s abstracts and painterly camo designs to this gorgeous botanical palm print. The generous, longer length and oversized fit is ideal for changing, while the super soft sherpa fleece feels ridiculously cosy. It’s lighter than many of the robes on test and packs down into a supplied stuff-sack. The only downside? It’s water resistant, rather than waterproof, so best kept for light showers and short walks back to the car.
DRYROBE Advance Long Sleeve Changing Robe
£165
They say: The original weatherproof changing robe, dryrobe Advance has become an essential piece of kit for cold water enthusiasts, elite athletes and outdoor adventurers. Its iconic design combines a durable waterproof outer with a super-warm inner that will protect you from the elements, with enough space to change in and out of a wetsuit or swimwear.
We say: The big change from the original dryrobe to the dryrobe Advance was making the sleeves longer. The idea of short sleeves was to make it easier to slip your arms in and out to facilitate changing. And it’s true that longer sleeves make this slightly harder. But they also make the Advance a significantly better product for standing around in the cold and rain. We’ve been using this robe for years. It gets flung into the back of cars, crumpled into kit bags and is frequently left on riverbanks. It has survived all of that with barely any signs of wear and tear.
Changing robes with innovative design
Best changing robe for drying | RAPANUI Shorebreak Changing Robe, £150
Best changing robe for swim hikes | DDIPP The Sea Monster Hydro, £150
Best lightweight changing robe for travel | RED The Pursuit, £209.95
WILD MOOSE Natural Moose Eco
£130
They say: Dive into action with the Wild Moose Eco changing robe. This top quality robe is packed with features to make your outdoor experience as comfortable and toasty warm as possible. Being both waterproof and windproof, it will protect you from the elements. It has a super absorbent and thick fleece lining so you can wear it as an extra layer for warmth even after getting dried and dressed. And, of course, it’s a personal changing cubicle for the most public of spots.
We say: Wild Moose’s robes have been designed to be inclusive of bigger bodies; the ‘Curvy Moose’ and ‘Super Curvy Moose’ sizing offering extra width without extra length. It isn’t until to wear something made for your body shape that you realise what you were missing. The extra width made all the difference when changing in and out of a wet cossie. We also loved ALL the pockets, two inside and out. This is clearly been produced by a passionate swimmer.
RAPANUI Shorebreak Changing Robe
£150
They say: The Shorebreak is the culmination of years of design innovation. It features quick-drying towel lining, a water-resistant outer layer, two-way zip for easy changing, an adjustable towel lined hood and pockets. A high-performing piece of gear for swimmers and surfers, underpinned by world-leading sustainability that’s free from plastic.
We say: Now for something a little different! While most of the robes tested have thick fleece inners, the Shorebreak is lined with a soft and quick-drying towel fabric, which is really good at actually drying you. After all, not everyone likes the feel of fleece against wet skin. The robe is 100% organic cotton – while most of the others are recycled polyester, which still sheds microplastics in the wash. The cotton and towel lining make the robe heavier than most, but if you’re after a super warm winter coat, which doubles as a change robe, you’re going to love it.
GILL Aqua Parka
£150
They say: Waterproof, windproof and breathable, our Aqua Parka was engineered for our explorers, with maximum protection and convenience in mind. It is intentionally oversized, designed to be loose enough for you to pull your arms inside for changing. Featuring a fully waterproof shell with stitch-free, welded seams, the fabric has four-way stretch, making it ideal for changing.
We say: The waterproof shell of the Aqua Parka has a smooth and supple feel, which almost feels like a soft-shell fabric. Stitch-free and with welded seams, it will keep even the worst weather at bay, but its most innovative quality is the four-way stretch, which allows you to easily wriggle out of your wet things while the high loft thermal fleece wicks water away from wet skin and keeps you warm even when damp. We also liked its long, below-the-knee length; roomy fleece lined pockets and adjustable sleeves to keep the rain out. The chunky zip is easy to handle with cold hands.
DDIPP The Sea Monster Hydro
£150
They say: We took the innovative Sea Monster robe and gave it a little boost! Still all the benefits of the award-winning original, such as being warm, comfortable and waterproof, 30% lighter than most other brands and packing away into its own compression pocket. Now with 10,000mm waterproofing, twice the breathability and a water-resistant chest pocket.
We say: At 1.1kg, the Sea Monster Hydro is around 30% lighter than other robes, and yet it felt like one of the warmest on test. It folds away into a hidden internal pocket, which zips into a compact carry bag small enough to stuff into a backpack or tow float – perfect for swim hikes! The recycled shearling fleece is insanely soft. We also loved considered details such as zip-off lower sleeves so you can wear it in all seasons. It’s waterproof to 10,000mm and super breathable, even after washing. The hi-vis orange is one of seven great colours.
SPLASH ROBE 3 in 1 Aqua Tricolour
£165
They say: Our 3 in 1 SplashRobe combines magnetic technology with 100% recycled fabrics. One removable inner soft shell robe. One waterproof, windproof external robe. One combined all year round protection from the elements.
We say: There is so much to love about this robe, which has been clevely designed by an outdoor swimmer. The magnet fastening is so brilliant for cold swimming days – no numb finger-fumbling! The weather proofing is also really significant, in gales and rain. We love that the inner-robe is removable, too, meaning it can be packed away when wet while you remain dry and warm under the outer robe. In summer you can also just wear the soft-shell robe, so it’s a great investment for all-year swimmers. It has lots of pockets and we love the colours. It is, however, the heaviest robe we tested!
RED The Pursuit
£209.95
They say: Ergonomically tailored for active users, the Pursuit is slimline and ultra-breathable and offers a new approach to the conventionally oversized thermal changing coat concept. The simple, yet inspired concept sees the robe featuring discreet zips down the entire side of the garment, so if you want to turn it into a robe to change under, you can.
We say: We were blown away with this robe! For starters, it’s a decent and effective all-weather coat but then discreet zips open up the garment into a useable changing robe – which is ingenius and makes us wonder why no one has thought of it before. We really put the robe through its paces because of the price, throwing buckets of water over our tester and can confirm it’s a robust bit of kit. It also has so many little details like the underwear pocket, adjustable waist, and cuffs with silicone teeth instead of Velcro. It also packs down small enough to roll into a backpack, which many robe brands claim but they’re often still too bulky.
DRYROBE Lite
£280
A super-lightweight, waterproof change robe that easily packs into its own stuff-sack, the dryrobe® Lite is built for adventures. Perfect for exploring remote locations, or for athletes travelling to events where luggage space is a premium. Our trademark oversized design gives you enough space to change inside, while the weatherproof outer and innovative Polartec® lining protects you from whatever Mother Nature throws at you.
We say: We were super impressed with this changing robe. Just like the Original, the robe is incredibly fast-drying and warm, despite being much lighter in weight. It comes with a relatively high price tag, but it’s ideal for fans of dryrobe’s pioneering design when kit space is scarce. Dryrobe is a cult favourite, and this robe is testament as to why.
All products were chosen independently by our editorial team. This review contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made. Click here to subscribe to the magazine. Read more Outdoor Swimmer gear reviews.
Outdoor Swimmer
Outdoor Swimmer is the magazine for outdoor swimmers by outdoor swimmers. We write about fabulous wild swimming locations, amazing swim challenges, swim training advice and swimming gear reviews.
