How to choose a changing robe
We asked the experts at Dryrobe® what to look for in a changing robe. Plus, our experts review the latest in warm and weatherproof changewear
What should we be looking for in a warm and weatherproof robe?
When looking for a warm and weatherproof changing robe, the most critical attribute is the ability to protect your core temperature immediately after exposure to cold water. You need a tough, windproof and waterproof outer shell (ideally rated to at least 20,000mm) to act as a complete barrier against the elements. Equally important is an insulating, high-performance inner lining that can wick moisture away from the skin while retaining heat, even when you are standing still in freezing conditions.
Dryrobe® is the original weather-proof change robe – what still sets it apart?
As the original, world’s best-selling change robe, Dryrobe® remains the benchmark with 45,000 5-star reviews and a 3-year guarantee. The Dryrobe® Advance features back2skin™ technology, which dries eight times faster than the nearest competitor, allowing multiple uses without a ‘damp’ feeling. It is also scientifically proven to aid recovery; an independent MMU Institute of Sport study showed that wearing an Dryrobe® Advance after cold water immersion significantly lowers heart rate, increases skin temperature, and improves thermal comfort and sensation.
Is there a difference in what you should look for in a changing robe that you wear for after swimming and a robe for wearing as a coat?
Choosing your changing robe comes down to your primary ‘why.’ For post-swim recovery, a classic oversized fit is essential, providing the internal change space to swap into dry clothes in total privacy. However, if you intend to use it primarily as a weatherproof coat for dog walks or spectating sports, some customers choose to size down for a fit better suited to everyday movement while retaining the same elite level of warmth and waterproof protection.
Should you put your changing robe on straight after coming out of the water or after you’ve got dry and dressed?
The Dryrobe® Advance is specifically designed to be put on over wet skin. Its high-wicking lining doesn’t just absorb water like a towel, it draws moisture into the pile of the fabric and away from your body, allowing it to evaporate through the garment’s natural venting. This means you start warming up quickly, even while you’re still wet, which is vital for battling that post-swim chill.
Check out the Dryrobe® collection.
The latest in warm and weatherproof change wear
DELTA ROAM Beaumont Robe
£155
With its understated design, slim silhouette and tailored fit, this robe is seriously smart! It’s definitely not the sort of changing robe you feel self-conscious wearing to the shops after a swim. It’s also remarkably hard-wearing. It easily protects you from the elements with its waterproof outer shell (up to 10,000mm), taped seams and a storm flap. It’s breathable and quick-drying, too, featuring a moisture-wicking fleece lining that claims to keep you comfortable in temperatures down to approximately -6°C – making it absolutely great for watching sideline sports. I particularly like the range of internal zipped pockets, including a clever removable pouch. You could easily tuck your valuables securely inside the pouch and pop it straight into a tow float.
TREKKIER Packable Explorers Robe
£120*
The attention to detail on this robe is incredible! It feels like so much care has been put into the design – from its 100% recycled material to the two-way zipper, large hood, and deep pockets in all the right places. The robe has a roomy fit with plenty of wiggle room for changing. I love the subtle contour motifs on the back and internal pocket, as well as the grid references on the sleeves (which point to Putsborough, North Devon – founder Zac’s go-to beach to slow down, if you’re wondering). The best part? It packs away into a built-in carry bag that doubles as a cosy pillow – water-resistant on one side and soft fleece on the other – which is ideal for lying down beside a river to take it all in after a dip.
*Readers get 10% off with code ‘OSXTREKKIER10’.
WILD ROBES Changing Robe
£99.95
The grey Sherpa fleece lining of this robe is insanely soft, moisture-absorbing, and designed to trap body heat after you exit the water. After trying it out, I was also surprised by the price – this is an exceptionally good-value changing robe for the quality and features it offers. I particularly like the various zip-able external pockets that keep your hands warm, plus the spacious internal storage for safe-keeping valuables. While the roomy cut is ideal for outdoor changing, like many robes, it’s a touch bulky for everyday wear. Look out for several new colourways coming out this autumn!
DRYROBE® Mosaic Palm Advance Changing Robe
£175
This new colourway from Dryrobe® stands out and gets attention. Every time I wore it, it was admired. Made from GRS-certified recycled fabrics this signature design features an illustration by the founder’s father. As to be expected from Dryrobe®, the product quality is outstanding. On first wear it poured with rain and the droplets just beaded and fell away. Warm against wind and cold temperatures, it’s fully fleece-lined, including within the hood. There are lots of pockets and details that help you keep keys and valuables safe; these robes are favoured for a reason. It comes with a three-year performance guarantee and Dryrobe® donate profits to the RNLI annually.
SWIMMING WILD Poncho Changing Robe
£99.99
This is such a lovely design and feels different to many other robes on the market. Although it’s made with a light, pack-away material, it still offers a warm fleece lining to keep you warm after a dip and its outer layer is wind and waterproof. Unlike most changing robes, it has an over-sized poncho design with poppers, allowing a bit more space for changing. It has a pocket pouch, pockets for warming up cold hands and a generous hood. I particularly appreciated the side poppers, which are easier to fasten with cold hands. It comes with a drawstring bag, and after you’ve folded the robe up inside, there’s still space to fit a tow float, meaning it would be great for travelling. It’s fun as well as useful and comes in two colourways.
SEASHELL Changing Robe
£160
If warmth and reliable protection from the elements are top of your requirements for a changing robe, you can’t beat Seashell. With a fully waterproof and windproof outer, taped seams and a deep Sherpa lining, it’s thicker and cosier than most robes, providing insane warmth and protection from wind and rain. All this cosiness puts it at the bulkier end of the scale, but this is a worthwhile compromise if you’re out in serious weather. Like all the Seashell products we’ve tested, it’s excellent quality and very durable – a friend has been wearing hers again and again for two years and it’s as good as new. The extra-large peaked hood, deep zip-able pockets and signature sea shell motif on the back all add to its stylish design.
ZOGGS Unisex Changing Parka Coat
£175
The Zoggs Changing Parka feels well-made and substantial as soon as you pick it up. It has a heft to it that suggests serious protection against the elements, making it an essential companion for year-round open water swimmers. The internal lining is thick, soft and snug, instantly trapping body heat, while the outer shell is incredibly robust and windproof. For storage, it features two external zip pockets, both of which are fleece-lined for keeping your hands cosy after a cold dip, and one internal phone-sized zipped chest pocket to keep your valuables secure and dry. All the zips are pleasingly chunky and smooth to operate, even with numb fingers, adding to the overall impression that this is a well-thought-through piece of kit. It delivers excellent coverage, ensuring you stay warm and completely shielded from harsh weather during outdoor transitions.
ZONE3 Thermotech Changing Robe
£155
This changing robe really does make you feel protected from the elements. Its fully waterproof outer shell, made from recycled polyester and treated with BIONIC-FINISH® ECO, helps repel water, wind and dirt, while the moisture-wicking Sherpa fleece lining keeps you warm and cosy. A storm flap with poppers and hook-and-loop wrist closures provide extra protection, and I particularly liked the tapered fit, which makes the robe feel less boxy and cumbersome when you’re moving around. There are also five spacious pockets, giving you plenty of room for all those post-swim essentials. My only criticism is the hood, which felt a little on the small side – it could definitely be roomier to accommodate bobble hats and ponytails!
All products are reviewed independently by our editorial team. If you buy a product through a link on this page we may receive a commission.
Jo Tinsley
Jo is the Gear Editor for Outdoor Swimmer and also writes news and features for the website. A keen open water swimmer and long-distance walker, she loves seeking out lakes and lidos close to her home in the Mendip Hills, Somerset. She is the author of The Slow Traveller, editor and founder of independent magazine, Ernest, and has previously tested outdoor clothing and kit for BBC Countryfile Magazine, BBC Focus and Ernest Journal.
