Best Dry Changing Robes for Open Water Swimming
The warmer weather puts outdoor swimming pursuits firmly back on the menu and a dry changing robe is every sea and lake swimmer’s essential. Here we review three of the best dry changing robes for open water swimming.
What is a changing/dry robe?
When dryrobe® launched their waterproof changing robe some 12 years ago, they kick-started a whole new industry, one that’s continued to grow.
As open water swimming’s popularity continues to rise in the UK – a great, waterproof dry changing robe can help you stay warm and cosy after your swim.
Changing robes (more commonly known as dry robes) are designed with dual functionality. They keep you warm insulated due to its waterproof material, before and after your swim and the oversize nature of the garment allows you to change within it to stop you getting cold.
Before we go further there are plenty of alternatives on the market than the three, we review but we like to think we have captured the numerous considerations to be taken into account when choosing a dry changing robe. Namely, enough room for changing, extra warmth on colder days, ability to withstand the wind and rain and still remain stylish.
Below are our top three picks:
£160
This outdoor changing garment has gained an almost cult-like following of devotees who emerge from the sea and lakes, don the robe and both dry off and change out of their togs (or wetsuits) underneath it.
The dryrobe® collection, which includes womenswear, menswear, kidswear, and even petwear, flaunts function over fashion for those who want to stay warm and dry during their outdoor swimming pursuits.
It even ticks a sustainability box for the conscious shopper: our choice offers eco-friendly materials using 100% recycled nylon and plant-based waterproof windproof finishing.
Our pick of the bunch is the dryrobe® long sleeve advance design that gives extra warmth with the external pockets fleece-lined. Its baggier construction makes it easier to change on the shoreline.
£149.99
There is no need to stick with your trusty towel with the HUUB Changing Robe. The towel lined robe is great for those early morning and late evening training sessions. It is prefect for protecting you from the weather and keeping you warm on those cold days and roomy enough to pull your arms in and change, comfortably and discreetly.
As British Triathlons Official Wetsuit and Swimmer partner, HUUB have pulled out all the stops in creating their first ever changing and warmth robe for protection which is critically before and after exercise.
Our pick is based on HUUBS research and feedback from athletes themselves, which has helped Huub create a robe that protects against the elements whilst delivering changing privacy and incredible warmth. It’s the one piece of go to kit for athletes on the move, no matter where you swim.
£99
Zone3’s Oversized Heat-tech Parka Robe is an essential companion for all open water swimming. It offers the warmth and weather protection you need after taking on the cold open water. This oversized design with a longer length and more generous sizing offer more protection and additional space for changing.
Designed with a fitted hood, waterproof shell and handy pockets it featuring both Heat-Tech and Polar Fleece fabrics on the inside which controls temperature through its heat regulatory properties and absorbs and wicks sweat away whilst still keeping you warm. The water and wind-resistant outer Water-Block shell further enhance this, stopping any wind or water from penetrating the Robe
Our pick is based on its wallet value for an excellent quality product that will last for many a year. Its an ideal addition to any triathlete and swimmer’s wardrobe, providing all the warmth and functionality you need to stay warm before and after your training session or event. Its three-quarter length keeps body heat locked in, the elements out which also provides an easy way to get changed after your session.
