Best towel robes for outdoor swimmers
Roomy sizes, quick-drying fabric and super absorbent: Omie Dale reviews the best towel robes for you keeping you snug after a cold water swim.
*This article was updated in August 2023
Finisterre Vean Changing Robe
£55
They say: The Vean is our go-to changing robe made using our favourite super-soft organic cotton towelling fabric. A staple bit of kit for any beach-goer, swimmer and surfer, this simple changing robe eliminates the chance of an embarrassing towel mishap. Made from 100% GOTS organic cotton.
We say: This changing robe comes in four stylish colours and the organic cotton used results in a comfortable and snug fit. The generous size allows for an easy change wherever you are and it’s warm enough to use all year round.
Zone3 Towelling Changing Robe
£49
They say: The new Zone3 changing robe is designed to keep you warm and covered pre- or post-swim. A relaxed fit ensures our towelling changing robe offers ample space to get changed while also keeping you well covered. Made from a 450gsm heavy weight 100% cotton material, it is warm and fluffy, allowing you to dry quickly. Complete with large pockets for storage and a hood with cords to keep your head warm and covered, whatever the weather.
We say: Out of all the towelling robes on the list, this was probably the warmest – I didn’t want to take it off! The hood with cords provides great protection against the elements too. It’s something I would take with me on colder days when I need to change quickly.
Cosimac Poncho Towel
£35
They say: Our luxury, super soft towel robe is absorbent and super soft against the skin. It is an essential piece of kit for changing at the beach or pool and the unique material allows for quick water absorption and fast drying times. Stay COSI with a handy pocket and extra large hood. It’s an essential for all outdoor watersport enthusiasts – also perfect as a COSI dressing gown for lounging on the sofa!
We say: A high quality towel robe at a reasonable price. I really appreciated the large pouch pockets to warm my hands up after a cold swim and the length meant I felt well covered throughout changing. The microfibre material is convenient – drying time is much quicker than a traditional towel and much less bulky too.
OLAIAN Adult Surf Poncho 500
£29.99
They say: Our surf-loving designers created this poncho to dry yourself off and get changed easily before or after your surfing sessions. Fits everyone. Stretchy underarm panels and side openings at the hips make it easier to get changed and protect your modesty.
We say: This towel not only dried me quickly, but it’s also compact enough to fit neatly in any kit bag. The slits at the side were a winner for me; they helped make changing underneath easier whilst keeping my modesty! Great for those more adventurous swimming trips.
Short Sleeve Towel dryrobe
£50
They say: The lightweight, super-soft-to-touch Organic Towel dryrobe® is designed to give you enough room to get changed and dry quickly, whilst staying covered up and protected from the elements. The unique short-length sleeve design allows you to use both hands to free yourself from the clutches of the super-stretch wetsuit or get your kit off and back on without overexposing yourself.
We say: Just like their traditional changing robes, dryrobe’s towel robe would be a fantastic addition to any swimmer’s kit bag. The material of the robe is soft against the skin and the design supplies ample room for an easy change. A solid choice.
Charlie Mcleod Driathlon
£34.95
They say: Manufactured in a highly absorbent Performance Microfibre. The Charlie McLeod Driathlon will dry you in seconds and offers a changing system water side. The Driathlon is a great addition to the Charlie McLeod range alongside the incredibly popular Sports Cloak. This will prove to be an essential part of your training and competing kit. Quick drying fabric, to ensure the garment is ready for your next session.
We say: Another towelling robe made from microfibre material, allowing for super quick drying. It comes with an elastic strap, which after being rolled up took up barely any space in my kit bag. I like how it comes in four sizes and several colours.
This article is from the February issue of Outdoor Swimmer. Browse more of our gear reviews. If you buy a product through a link on this page we may receive a commission.
Omie Dale
Omie is an outdoor swim coach and swim instructor who works to increase access to swimming for underrepresented groups in the sport. She is a director of Swimunity, a Community Interest Company that offers free swimming lessons for children and women in London, as well as free beach days and excursions for families to help them to connect with nature and the outdoors.
