Wild swimming: how a dry robe or waterproof changing robe helps when wild swimming, best in the UK 2022

Changing robes (more commonly known as dry robes) have had a stratospheric rise globally over the past 15 years - going from non-existent to must-have in a short period of time. As open water swimming in in the ascendency, so the changing robe is a new essential.

Prior to Robie introducing a towel robe in 2007 there was no such thing available commercially. Then DryRobe launched a waterproof changing robe three years later, and a new industry was born - one that’s been on the rise ever since.

With an ever increasing range of changing robes available, what are they for, and which is the best?

For clarity: in this article we’ll be using dry robe and changing robe interchangeably. It’s worth noting that Dryrobe as a run-together word is the brand name for the market leading dry robe (think Hoovers being synonymous for all vacuums!).

Best dry/changing robes at a glance

• Best for maximum warmth: dryrobe Advance Long Sleeve, £160
• Best budget robe: Gul EVORobe, £80
• Best lightweight option: Finisterre Tego Robe, £125
• Best for style: Red Pro Change Robe Evo Long Sleeve, £149.95
• Best for a day at the beach: Northcore Beach Basha Pro 4 Season Changing Robe, £100
• Best value for money: Charlie Mcleod Eco Camo Sports Cloak, £130
• Best for kids: Frostfire Moonwrap Kids, £90
• Best for the eco conscious: Robie Dry Series Long Sleeve Changing Robe, £149.99
• Best for movement: Zone 3 Heat-Tech Changing Robe, £139
• Best for a poncho: Gorilla Changing Robe Poncho, £89

What is a changing/dry robe?

Designed for the outdoor swimmer, changing robes effectively perform a dual function. They’re something warm and cosy to climb into when climbing out of the cold water, and their oversized nature gives you enough room to allow you to change underneath, without losing heat and while maintaining a degree of privacy.

What should you look for in a dry robe?

When choosing the right robe for you there are numerous considerations to take into account. You’ll obviously need enough room for changing, but additional features like multiple zips can help make the process easier. Additional features like the type and position of pockets can also be a deciding factor.

If you plan on swimming in the colder months then extra warmth is of key consideration, as is an ability to withstand wind or rain, but with some robes these extra comforts either come at a higher price or result in a bulkier robe that restricts movement and is harder to pack away.

Some robe manufacturers put increased effort into snugness, providing velcro adjustable wrist straps and adjustable hoods, while for the hardier swimmers short sleeved robes are also available. You’ll also notice that while some robes are available in multiple sizes – including a few for kids – others go down the ‘one size fits all’ route.

Are there environmentally friendly dry robes?

Wild swimmers tend to be an environmentally conscious bunch, aware of the damage that consumerism can do to their favourite swim spots. This is reflected by a large number of manufacturers making at least part of their robes from recycled materials, so you can boast your own environmental creds by prioritising these products.

Finally, fashion also plays its part in decisions making, with robes pitched at hardcore surfers and triathletes or the more casual swimmer, with each community having its own view on what looks the coolest when keeping warm.

To help with your choice we’ve picked out 10 of the best robes on the market – nine for adults and one for kids – highlighting the key elements that make each of them stand out from their competitors.