Best Changing Robes | The Ultimate Guide

Best Changing Robes | The Ultimate Guide

You might be surprised by the variety available if you're new to changing robes. Whether it’s an insulated robe that acts as a cosy, wearable shelter or a lightweight option for warm, sunny days, there’s a style to suit every adventurer in the great outdoors at the Wetsuit Centre.

Discover how to choose the perfect changing robe and find the right fit and features to elevate your outdoor experience. Read more!

Why Do You Need A Changing Robe?

A changing robe is an essential piece of gear for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities like surfing, swimming, or hiking. Its full length provides warmth and comfort when transitioning from wet to dry, ensuring you stay cosy and protected from the elements. It also offers privacy, allowing you to change discreetly in public spaces, such as beaches or parking lots.

The robe’s roomy fit and absorbent materials make it ideal for quickly drying off, while its durability and weather resistant features make it a valuable tool for adventurers in any season. Plus, it feels soft against your skin, adding an extra layer of comfort. 

Here are a few reasons why they’re worth the investment:

Privacy: No more awkward towel changes.

Warmth: Changing robes provide warmth and help protect against the cold, reducing the risk of getting sick.

Weather Protection: Many robes are windproof, waterproof, or both, making them ideal for unpredictable outdoor conditions.

Versatile: It is ideal for post-swim, surf, or outdoor activities.

Dryrobe changing robe

 

The Different Types of Changing Robes

When it comes to changing robes, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. From lightweight options perfect for summer days to insulated robes that provide extra warmth in chilly hands weather, the variety of materials, features, and designs ensures you can find the right one for every adventure.

Let’s explore the different types of changing robes and their unique benefits.

Towel changing robe

1. Towel Robes

Perfect for warm-weather activities, towel robes are typically made from absorbent materials like terry cloth or microfiber and come with both long and short-sleeve options. They’re lightweight, breathable, and great for drying off after a swim or surf. We have a large range of terry-changing robes for you to take a look through and recommend this type for warmer weather conditions as they are much lighter and not as insulating.

Best for: Beach days, poolside lounging, or summer adventures.
Top pick: A classic cotton poncho towel with a hood and kangaroo pocket for added functionality such as the Robie Robes Original Short Sleeve Changing Towel.

 

Insuktaed changing robes

2. Insulated Robes

When the weather turns cold, insulated robes are your best choice. These robes feature a warm, soft fleece lining and a weatherproof exterior, making them ideal for year-round use. Whether you're battling numb fingers or simply looking to stay warm, these robes are designed with practical features, including fleece-lined pockets, to keep you super warm in even the chilliest conditions. All changing robes come with a hood to protect your head and ears.

Best for: Winter water adventures, cold beach days, or windy conditions.
Top pick: The Dryrobe Advance, which combines water resistance, wind proofing, and a cosy interior for ultimate comfort.

 

Features to Look For

Material:
Consider whether you need absorbent fabric (like cotton or microfiber) or insulated layers for warmth. If you need something fully waterproof or water resistant, then opt for one that has an outer shell material.

Fit:
An oversized changing robe provides ample space for changing out of your wet gear, while fitted options are sleeker and more compact. An oversized fit is always a better option!

Hood:
A good hood is essential for keeping your head warm and dry, especially in windy or rainy conditions.

Pockets:
Handy for storing small essentials like keys, phones, or snacks. Deep pockets can also assist in ensuring some added warmth for your hands and fingers.

Compact:
If you’re short on space, look for robes that can be packed into their pouch or folded down neatly into your bag.

Durability:
Waterproof and windproof changing robe exteriors are a must for harsh conditions and can be easily identified thanks to their outer shell. Velcro cuffs are also an added benefit for extra warmth.

Top Brands and Popular Models

At the Wetsuit Centre, we proudly stock a range of some of the best-changing robes and brands to suit every outdoor enthusiast. Here are our top picks:

DryRobe: Leading the pack is Dryrobe, famous for its durable, soft, weather-resistant designs and exceptional warmth, making it a go-to for cold and windy weather conditions.

Robie Robes: Robie Robes, another standout, brings a blend of practicality and style with their quick-drying fabrics and cosy linings, perfect for open-water swimming and surfing.

Beachbum: Beachbum brings a fun and vibrant touch to the line-up, with colourful, soft and cosy robes that are as comfortable as they are eye-catching.

Mystic: Mystic, known for its premium water sports gear, offers stylish and functional robes designed with water lovers in mind that are suitable for a range of different weather conditions.


No matter your adventure, the Wetsuit Centre has the ideal changing robe to keep you warm, dry, and ready for your next challenge in all weather conditions.

 

How to Choose the Right Robe for You

When selecting a changing robe, think about how and where you’ll use it most. Ask yourself:

What’s the weather like? If you’re braving cold waters and rain, prioritize warmth and weatherproofing. For heat and sunny days, lightweight, breathable towel options will suffice.

How often will you use it? Daily users should invest in a durable, high-quality robe, while occasional users might prefer something more affordable.

What’s your style? From minimalist designs and colours to bold patterns, there is a range of short-sleeved or long-sleeved change robes to match every aesthetic.

 

FAQs

How do I clean my changing robe?

What size-changing robe should I get?

Are changing robes suitable for kids?

What's the difference between a dry robe and a changing robe?

Is a long-sleeved changing robe better than a short-sleeved changing robe?

Can I wear a changing robe as a coat?

Is the dryrobe worth the money?

Are changing robes good for dog walking?