
Roll up, wild swimming lovers. These changing robes are set to be your new BFF. Chances are, if you've dipped your toe (quite literally) into open-water swimming, surfing or any kind of water sports, you'll be hooked to the physical and mental health benefits of plunging yourself into a cold body of water. But you'll be less hooked on the whole ~turning blue~ debacle afterwards.
Good news: you don't have to put up with post-swim shivers to reap the benefits of wild swimming, paddle-boarding and the like. Changing robes (basically an oversized, seriously cosy-looking poncho) are here to save the day.
They've become a ubiquitous sight on beaches and lake sides up and down the country, with Dryrobes in particular being pegged as the most-wanted coat in Britain. A practical fashion phenomenon and a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts looking to reap the many health benefits associated with cold water immersion, they're big enough to get dressed underneath and offer a discrete way to pull on your one-piece swimsuit or wetsuit (without flashing the entire beach or pool). The best changing robes are perfect for slipping on after wild swimming, surfing, paddle-boarding – or even for dog walks and wearing at pubs and cafes in seaside towns. Here's everything you need to know.
What is a changing robe? | How to use a changing robe | What to look for in a changing robe | The best changing robes, reviewed by a fitness writer.
Rushing to the beach? The best dry robes at a glance:
dryrobe Advance Long Sleeve
Slowtide Hala Quick Dry Poncho
Adult Waterproof Changing Robe 950
Passenger Roaming Sherpa Lined Changing Robe
Passenger Escapism Unisex Changing Robe
BEACHBUM Waterproof Changing Robe
What is a changing robe?
Popular among surfers and swimmers, a changing robe is a staple bit of kit for any beach-goer. Designed to offer both privacy and warmth when changing clothes in public places, changing robes help to eliminate the chances of any embarrassing beach towel mishaps and can double up as waterproof jackets for camping and walking the dogs.
Most changing robes tend to be made from either towel material or fleece-lined with a waterproof shell and have a loose, oversized fit.
How to use a changing robe:
Using a changing robe is fairly straightforward. Simply throw your changing robe on top of your clothes, then remove your clothing underneath the robe and change into your bikini or wetsuit or whatever clothing you want to change into. Once you’ve changed, remove the robe by unzipping it or pulling it over your head and, voilà, you’re ready to go.
What to look for in the best changing robe:
Ahead, our favourite changing robes for swimming, surfing and stand-up paddle boarding…
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qLjApqauqp2WtKLGyKecZ5ufY8Kse8aao6Wdoq58o7HSrWScoJGjtKq6xmapqJqVqA%3D%3D