Review: the Dryrobe® Nexus

The Nexus retains the familiar silhouette of the original Dryrobe® but introduces a more refined fit, improved zip and ‘reach through’ pockets. Simon Griffiths puts it to the test.

While originally envisaged for surfers, changing robes have become indelibly associated with outdoor swimming. It’s a common winter sight to see a gaggle of swimmers, post-swim, huddled in a circle in their robes, hoods up, hot drink steaming in their hands. And for good reason: changing robes offer brilliant protection from the elements and are ideal for warming up and fending off after-drop.

The company that started it all, Dryrobe®, back in 2010, has just launched their latest version – the Nexus. We got one to test.

The Dryrobe® Nexus retains the familiar silhouette of the original Dryrobe® but introduces a more refined fit. It’s still capacious enough to change under (if you wish) but a little less voluminous than the original. It also has more size options than previously.

Putting it on, you immediately feel the comfort of the Sherpa fleece lining, while the outer shell gives the impression of being impervious to wind or rain. Dryrobe® claims an impressive 30,000mm waterproof rating. While I didn’t stand in a storm for hours to test that, I got the impression the Nexus would take it in its stride.

But, so far, so familiar. It does make you wonder how Dryrobe® could improve on a product that already did exactly what was needed of it. For that, you need to look at the finer details.

The zip is solid, secure and easy to do up with numb fingers thanks to the additional Dryrobe® rubber fob on the main zip and loops of the pocket zips. The main zip is also backed by a flap to help keep out the wind.

Another nice and new feature is the “reach-through” pockets. Next to the warm, fleece-lined side pockets is a slot secured by poppers. Undo the poppers and you can reach inside the robe to adjust your clothing or grab something from an inner pocket without having to undo the main zip. It’s slightly gimmicky, but surprisingly useful.

At the launch, Dryrobe®’s founder, Gideon Bright, pointed out that one of the best things you can do for the environment is to buy products that last. I know people who still have an original Dryrobe® from 2010 (mine, unfortunately, was stolen) so I have no doubt the Nexus will offer similar longevity. It’s also made entirely from recycled fabrics and carries Dryrobe®’s B Corp credentials, which may appeal to buyers wanting a lower-impact option.

Overall, the Nexus feels like Dryrobe®’s most considered evolution yet. It doesn’t reinvent the changing robe, but refines it in ways that swimmers (and anyone who spends time outdoors) should appreciate. The improved fit, lighter lining and upgrades such as the reach-through pockets make it more versatile day to day, while the upgraded waterproofing and tough outer fabric should stand up to years of winter use. At £225, it’s a significant investment, but if you’re looking for a robe that works brilliantly for swimming and doesn’t look out of place when you stop at the supermarket on the way home, the Nexus is a good choice. It’s available in Black or Dual Camouflage/Orange.