21 best changing robes, tried and tested by the WH team

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The best changing robes for wild swimmers Hearst Owned

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Changing robes are as ubiquitous at wild swimming spots as giddy, flushed-cheeked women clutching travel mugs of steaming coffee and chatting excitedly. You've probably also seen people rocking dry robes on dog walks, cuddling up in them on camping trips and donning them to brave blustery coastal walks.

Thanks to their warming and waterproofing abilities, changing robes are arguably the most important piece of cold water swimming kit (after a swimsuit, that is). But nowadays they're so much more — they're the versatile outdoorsy companion that, despite their practicalities, also foray into the fashion world — everyone from A-listers like Harry Styles and Davina McCall to the trendy 'cool girls' of Instagram have been spotted in the outerwear staple.

But if you are a fan of plunging yourself into icy cold water, we have good news. Thanks to your new BFF (that's a changing robe, in case we weren't clear), you don't have to put up with the post-swim shakes to reap all the benefits of cold water swimming. Keep scrolling to find out exactly why changing robes are the ideal cold water/outdoors ally, how they work and the best ones to buy.

The best changing robes in 2025

In a hurry? Here's our pick of the best dry robes at a glance. Keep scrolling for the full list, plus the benefits of changing robes and how to use them.

What to look for when shopping for a changing robe

A changing robe is a big investment, but a good one should last you a lifetime, so if you do decide to take the plunge make sure you've considered the following:

  • Versatility - Some change robes have removable layers, making them suitable year-round, and some can double up as a winter coat, giving you more bang for your buck.

  • Protection - Your weatherproofing needs will depend on where in the world you are and what times in the year you swim. Look out for waterproof and windproof materials to keep you toasty in inclement weather. In the summer you might be fine with just a towelling robe, but they don't offer much protection against rain.

  • Layers - Multi-layer robes will offer greater warmth and protection from the elements, and it's worth considering the material of the inner layer, or lining - whether it's moisture-wicking, and if you'd prefer the feel of fleece, towel or microfibre against your skin.

  • Pockets - If you need pocket space (who doesn't?) look for changing robes with large, preferably zipped interior and exterior pockets for everything from your keys to a hot water bottle.

  • Aesthetics - Some simple changing robes look a bit like towelling ponchos, while others are more technical and outdoorsy, and some of the oversized parka designs look undeniably cool and could be worn day-to-day in the colder months.

  • Size - Generally you want a changing robe that's long and roomy enough to use without exposing yourself to the cold or, you know, just exposing yourself.


How we test changing robes

Luckily there are a fair few wild swimmers on the WH team, so we put these robes to the test through all seasons and conditions, from temperate beach days to chilly winter dips in the channel (seriously, brrr). We took them camping, dog walking, into the garden to don after ice baths, as well as to beaches, rivers, lakes and urban open water swimming spots — and even on an outdoor fitness tour of Guernsey. Plus we tested waterproof claims both in the great outdoors but also by turning the shower head on them.

All the while, we were assessing comfort, warmth, waterproofing, how breathable the robes were and how quickly they dried, as well as how handy features like pockets, wind baffles and adjustable cuffs were in practice. We took note of how usable certain features were with cold hands — tactile rubber zip pulls really come into their own — plus, the crucial test: how easy they were to actually get changed under.

The changing robes we've chosen here are products we truly recommend and feel are worth their price points — they can be pretty costly, so we've made sure they're a sound investment and will stand the test of time.

21 best changing robes to buy in 2024

From celeb-favourite dryrobe to the coveted Red Original Pro Change Robe EVO, we've handpicked the very best dry robes to shop in 2024. Dive in.

best changing robes tried and tested
Hearst Owned


Original Women's Long Sleeve Pro Change Robe EVO

A solid favourite among cold water swimmers, the Red Original Pro Change Evo Robe ticks all the boxes — it’s waterproof, breathable and lightweight, and comes in a range of colours with fun, contrasting linings. We've got the parker green (pictured) and adore it, but the teal and this minimal all-black version are also high on our wishlist.

It's easily got the softest lining of the many changing robes we've tested — to the point we proudly ask fellow swimmers to stroke the inside on a regular basis. That thick pile is also moisture-wicking, plus there's a wind baffle and velcro cuffs to preserve precious body heat, and a snug-fit, toggled hood means your head stays warm too.

Quick-closure fastenings are easy enough to operate with numb fingers, plus there are loads of pockets and stretchy panels on the side to make changing a doddle.

It doesn't feel as structured as some of the robes we've tried, which we liked as it's far easier to move in. It also packs down well and is pretty light for what it is, but grab one of the brand’s compression bags if you really want to pack it down small.

Fancy standing out among the sea of green and grey on the shore? Red has released three limited edition colour clash robes made from ethically sourced and recycled materials.

Buy if: You're after a quality, does-it-all changing robe.
Don't buy if: You just need a beach coverup.

£134.95 at red-equipment.co.uk


Escapism Unisex Changing Robe

We love everything about this change robe — the gorgeous rust colour, the large logo on the back and the fact that it’s made from 85 recycled plastic bottles.

It arrives packed down into a surprisingly small, but very handy reusable bag (or stuff-sack), and the sherpa fleece lining is super cosy.

The recycled polyester outer is water-repellent, there are side slits to make changing easier and adjustable velcro on the cuffs to keep the warm in, plus it has lined pockets to keep valuables safe and hands toasty too.

Currently available in black, rust or burgundy.

Buy if: You want a robe that does the job and packs down small.
Don't buy if
: You're braving the rain.

£95.96 at amazon.co.uk


Beaufort Robe

If it weren’t for it’s incredible moisture-wicking and super toasty properties, we’d struggle to tell this changing robe apart from a trendy winter coat.

It's also packed with thoughtful features you won't see on your standard parka, including tactile, easy-pull two-way zippers, adjustable Velcro cuffs to keep the warm in, a toggle hood, a D-clip attachment and a large hanging loop — ideal for busy changing rooms where you're cramming all your stuff on one peg.

And we haven't even gotten to the pockets yet! There are more than we could reasonably use, including a key stash and even a removable pouch that doubles as a handy valuables compartment you can detach and store in your dry bag. All bar one of the pockets are zipped, and the two on the outside are lined in soft fleece forgiving to chilly hands.

This lilac grey shade is even more gorg IRL, but it also comes in more traditional green, black and navy, as well as this warm sand colour.

We recommend sizing up if you do want to use it predominantly to change under, as the fit is a little snug.

Buy if: You want style, substance and versatility, with loads of storage.
Don't buy if: You're after something basic for occasional use.

$155.00 at d-robeoutdoors.com


Advance Long Sleeve Changing Robe

As iconic as they are ubiquitous, changing robe pioneer dryrobe counts Harry Styles and Rita Ora among its fans, and we can see why. It’s really roomy, so easy to change comfortably underneath, and the recycled lining is made to replicate lambswool — big cosy points.

The outer is also recycled — it’s made from waterproof and windproof nylon, plus the sleeves are fitted to help you feel less like you’re flailing about in a tent, and it has loads of deep, fleece-lined pockets, including a huge A4-sized internal section and a zipped waterproof chest pocket that's ideal for stowing your phone.

We've worn this for everything from wild swimming and camping to dog walks, and it's done a sterling job at keeping us warm and dry in all weathers, all while looking chic too. What more can you really ask for?

Dryrobes come in a range of colours and designs, but right now we're big fans of the camo and pink lining version.

Buy if: You appreciate the OG design — and all the brilliant features to boot.
Don't buy if: You need a changing robe you can pack down small.

£165.00 at dryrobe.com


Misty Women's Recycled Waterproof Beach Parka

This 100% recycled polyester robe from surfing mainstay Animal has been tested to withstand up 2,000mm of rain in a 24hour period and has taped seams to keep out water, so you can rest assured you’ll stay dry in Britain's drizzly summer.

The lining is made from borg, a faux shearling-style material, and is super breathable, allowing any moisture to wick away and keep you warm and comfortable.

A full zip on the front means getting it on and off is simple, plus the toggle hood means you can pull it tight to keep out windchill on those blustery days by the shore.

The double pockets on the front are huuuge, it's made from 100% recycled materials, plus we love the cute motif on the back.

Buy if: You need a traditional changing robe for the warmer seasons.
Don't buy if
: You need to stay super toasty.

£74.99 at mountainwarehouse.com


Adult Changing Robe

This changing robe from outdoors clothing brand Regatta means serious business — which for the price point, we found pretty impressive. It feels durable and heavy duty, and has that satisfying, almost crunchy texture on the outside shell that tells you it’s going to protect you from the elements — and we can confirm the waterproofing is sound. That said, the robe isn't too bulky — certainly not to dryrobe or Gill Aqua Parka standards — but does rustle a bit in the wind.

The fleece lining is gorgeously soft and dries fairly quickly, while Velcro cuffs help keep the heat in — but there isn't a wind baffle and the hood is on the smaller side, so you don't quite get that cocoon feeling you do with some other robes. Overall the robe is still very warm, just prepare for a chill on your neck/chin.

The zip is two-way, and while thought has gone into the upper pull (it's larger, to help you operate with cold hands), it's not got the tactile rubber features you get on more premium options. Storage-wise there are two zipped pockets on each side which are lined with a thin fleece so aren't massively cosy but are useful, as is the zipped valuables pocket on the inside of the robe.

While there are only two sizes available, it's very generously sized, with tons of space to change under. And did we mention it comes in leopard print? (More demure designs are available.)

Buy if: You want a sturdy changing robe that stands out.
Don't buy if
: You need to warm up fast — there are cosier options out there.

£60.00 at regatta.com


All Weather Puffer Changing Robe

Unique not only in shape, this puffer change robe from Vivida has an insulated fill style, rather than thick layered towelling like most changing robes on the market. So as you’d expect, it’s super cosy.

Construction-wise there are three layers, starting with a water and wind-proof shell, then synthetic down insulation, then a soft fleece lining made from 100% recycled polyester.

The oversized fit allows enough room for changing, but if you want to use it purely as a coat (and why wouldn’t you?) size down.

Clever features like adjustable velcro cuffs, a draught-free collar and lots of deep pockets put this up there with the very best of changing robes. And it's available in three on-trend shades: dark grey (pictured), misty green, matcha green and mineral blue.

Buy if: You want to be the toastiest swimmer at the post-dip drinks.
Don't buy if
: You need a changing robe to travel with.

£220.00 at vividalifestyle.com


Adult Therma Change Robe

Known for its quality swimwear, it’s only right that Speedo's offered up something to chuck over the top of their fantastic cossies. This changing robe is definitely one for the fashion-conscious, with aesthetic additions doubling up as practical features too, such as a drawstring waist to keep in the heat, a trench coat-style storm flap and a seriously oversized zip just made for numb hands. The fun splashes of neon yellow are just for the lewks though.

Despite scoring top fashion points, that’s not to say it won’t work just as hard as other robes on the market. While super lightweight, it offers serious warmth; courtesy of a clever aluminium mid layer, and has multiple compartments for valuables and a warm change of clothes (and for chilly fingers, the borg-lined pockets are a nice touch).

This khaki coat also comes with elasticated, sweatshirt-style cuffs, rather than fiddly velcro, and an oversized hood that, in tests, managed to cover both over-ear headphones and a woolly hat.

We should mention that it is rather oversized, so absolutely size down — but is that such a bad thing when you can share with your other half?

Also available in black.

Buy if: You want a super-oversized , on-trend fit.
Don't buy if
: You're petite — this will swamp you.

£250.00 at speedo.com


Roaming Recycled Sherpa Lined Changing Robe

Putting the fabulous ski-inspired designs aside, this changing robe ticks all the boxes.

It's super cosy, thanks to the thick sherpa fleece lining and adjustable velcro cuffs, while the outer shell is made from water-repellent 100% recycled polyester ripstop, sourced from single-use plastic bottles.

Side slits and a two-way zip make changing easy, and there's hand warming pockets to the front, plus an internal velcro-sealed pocket. Plus it comes ready packed away in its own stuff-sack!

It has a softer, more forgiving structure than some other changing robes so doubles up as a great cosy coat for camping trips, dog walks, chilly pub gardens... you get the idea.

Currently onlu available in black/khaki (pictured).

Buy if: You want a cosy outdoor coat that doubles as a stylish changing robe.
Don't buy if
: You're heading out in heavy downpours.

£130.00 at tiso.com


Adult's Quilted Changing Robe

Is traffic cone-core a thing yet? It’s probably only a matter of time, but frankly this bright quilted number from Regatta will never not look good (or get you spotted) — but it also comes in a gorgeous Moroccan blue if you're after something more unassuming.

Because this robe is water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, it has a softer, more flexible shell which feels lovely and as such packs down a lot easier than the heftier options on this list.

On the features front it has a lot going for it: Velcro cuffs, a zip cap and two-way zip, a secure inner valuables pocket and two side zipped pockets, which are lined in a thin fleece — so not ideal for hand warming. However, overall the robe is super cosy, with the fleece among the softest we've tried, and while there's no wind baffle, the zip comes up quite high so this wasn't really an issue. And because the coat is more flexible, you feel like you can really wrap it around you and snuggle up.

There's a hanging loop, which while useful isn't particularly large, so if you were hoping to stash the robe on top of all your other hung up belongings you might have to commandeer another peg instead. The zip did occasionally snag a bit for us, but this is a minor niggle.

Like the other Regatta offering on this list, this quilted robe is very generously sized and quite long too — on us at 5'4" it hit mid-calf. Basically, there's a boatload of space for you to change underneath.

Buy if: You're looking for a changing robe for general outdoors wear.
Don't buy if
: You need intense waterproofing.

£40.00 at regatta.com


Premium Poncho Towel Changing Robe

Another solid changing robe from Vivida, this microfibre towelling option is similar to the Original — super absorbent, very roomy, with a lifesaver huge pocket on the front — but also features a waffle-lined drawstring hood for a luxe, day-at-the-spa feel (and it will help stop hair going quite so frizzy post-swim).

There's a zipped valuables pocket and side slits for fuss-free changing, plus it's a great length — long enough to keep you warm but not so long you feel hemmed in around the legs.

Available in two two-tone designs, the robe packs down fairly small and is machine washable too. Score.

Buy if: You want to maintain those beach waves post-surf.
Don't buy if
: You're after a cosy, waterproof number.

antoine verville
antoine verville

$45.00 at vividalifestyle.com


Aqua Parka

This dry robe from Gill looks and feels more like a rubber waterproof coat than a toasty changing capsule, but thanks to four-way stretch material still has all the manoeuvrability of a great robe, plus the durability of a heavy-duty parka.

Welded seams keep things seriously dry on the inside — we've sprayed it directly with a high-pressure shower just to be sure — while the furry fleece lining is thermal, keeping things warm and wicking away moisture effectively.

It is roomy, so there's plenty of space to change inside, with a two-way zip to make things easier. The adjustable cuffs help to trap heat inside and there's an interior zipped valuables pocket plus two soft-lined external pockets too — a lifesaver for chilly hands.

It doesn't pack down quite as well as some others on the market, but thanks to its more traditional coat looks you're more likely to be wearing it than stashing it away anyway.

Buy if: You're braving heavy downpours.
Don't buy if
: You want to travel light.

£155.57 at amazon.co.uk


Original Poncho Towel Changing Robe

This microfibre towelling change robe from Vivida is super fast-drying (it claims to dry four times faster than cotton) and absorbs seven times its weight in water. We've only worn it on warm days and it did dry very fast, but can't speak to how it might hold up in chillier climes.

Available in a bunch of surf girl-cool colours, it has a handy kangaroo pocket on the front which houses another small zipped pocket to keep valuables safe — we found it fitted a smartphone perfectly.

The robe is smooth and soft, packs down small despite its roomy fit (even in the small size we had more than ample space) and side and underarm slits make changing simple. And it's machine washable!

Available in four two-tone colourways — we're partial to the mineral blue/anthracite grey.

Buy if: You need a beach coverup that performs.
Don't buy if
: You're braving the water in colder seasons.

£60.00 at vividalifestyle.com


Ripstop Travel Blanket

This blanket/changing robe is genius in its versatility. Thanks to a detachable hood and popper fastenings you can essentially create your own toasty blanket cocoon when you get out of the water, then once you're dry and back in your clothes it makes for a handy post-dip picnic blanket.

Insulated and water-resistant, there's a small zipped inner pocket for valuables and large zipped pocket, both easily accessed when worn as a cape.

Because it's a blanket there’s a ton of space to get changed, but it can leave your lower half a bit exposed when you're not wrapping your arms around yourself. (For us standing at 5'4", the bottom of the blanket hit just above the ankle.)

However, thanks to the insulation — made from recycled plastic bottles — it's very cosy, feels soft against the skin and toggle cords on the hood and a wind baffle stop you getting too chilly.

Buy if: You're looking for a versatile camping companion.
Don't buy if
: You want to zip up into a cosy cocoon.

£75.95 at wildbounds.com


Adults Hard Shell Robe

Did we initially choose this changing robe soleley because it's leopard print? Sure. But that’s not to say it doesn’t deliver on the technical front too.

The thick lining keeps you very cosy, it's fully waterproof — which for this price point is impressive — and it's loaded with considerate extras like a wind baffle, Velcro cuffs, a hood adjuster, a hanging loop on the back and a chunky zip pull (but only on the top zipper).

Pockets-wise there's an interior pants pocket (for stowing — you guessed it — underwear to change into), two zipped size pockets and a zipped and waterproof valuables pocket on the chest — this is on the outside, but it's fleece-lined which is a nice touch (and gentle on phone screens).

It also packs down fairly well thanks to the fact that it's not as long as some robes (it hit just below knee on us at 5’4”), so is a great option to take away on adventures.

Looks-wise we didn't love the large logo and if we had to nitpick, it is a tad shapeless (particularly if you’re on the smaller side as there's no XS offering), but as such there's plenty of space to change underneath, and the two-way zip helps make this is easy as possible.

And yes, other colours/patterns are available.

Buy if: You want all the features without the price.
Don't buy if
: Style is a huge concern.

$140.00 at whitewaterrobes.com


Adult Surfing Poncho

Decathlon is known for churning out decent basics you can rely on, but this unisex changing robe actually has a number of clever features you'd expect to see from more premium brands.

Stretchy panels under the arms mean there's no gaping holes to facilitate an accidental boob flash, plus they make it easier to change. There are also openings where you'd expect pockets to be, so you can slip your hands through, rather than under, the robe when hopping out of a wet swimsuit — a feature we love as you don't have to hike the robe up above chilly knees.

Being 100% cotton it's machine washable and the large front pocket makes for a great hand warmer when you've finished your coffee (and bacon sarnie).

This unisex robe is currently available in black and navy or sand.

Buy if: You need a beach-suitable changing robe on a budget.
Don't buy if
: You're after any fancy features.

£29.99 at decathlon.co.uk


Lite

One issue with testing out numerous changing robes is that your coat closet space gets rather full pretty quickly. Which is why we’re especially pleased with the newest innovation from dryrobe — a light and super compact version of the dryrobe Advance.

Weighing just 950g, it packs down into a 38cm zipped stuff-sack but still offers the same warmth features as a standard dryrobe, so it's a great portable option for adventurous souls on the move (it was designed with triathletes and endurance athletes in mind) or those who want to take their changing robe on hols with them.

Recycled plastic bottles make up the fully waterproof and weatherproof outer shell, while the lining is made from water-repellent Polartec (recycled fleece), which not only keeps you super warm by maintaining your core temperature but also wicks away moisture and dries incredibly fast, so you can use it multiple times in one day without that grim wet-towel feeling.

Buy if: You need something lightweight and effective.
Don't buy if
: You want your robe to double as a coat — this is strictly performance-oriented.

$280.00 at dryrobe.com


Vean Changing Robe

You know when you've had a shower and you're wrapped in a towel so cosy that you just sit on your bed staring into space rather than get changed? That feeling is this changing robe. It's so gorgeously soft and wonderfully roomy — the extra folds of material mean you can really snuggle up in it — that it's difficult to take off (only emotionally — physically it just pops over your head).

It is one size but that does seem to cater for all — it feels incredibly cosy on me at 5’4”, but it’s also being used (stolen) on the reg by my 6’2” boyfriend who relies on it to take the edge off after an ice bath.

Note that it doesn't have any pockets so you'll need to stow valuables elsewhere, but it's a fantastic chuck-on option when you need a little protection from the elements, or just a safe place to change post-swim.

We adore the orange flame shade, but it also comes in cerulean blue and black.

Buy if: You want the feel of a cosy bath towel.
Don't buy if
: You need pockets.

£55.00 at finisterre.com


Women's Revolution 3-in-1 Change Parka

A true multitasker, it's no surprise this incredible changing robe was designed by women. A removable inner layer means you get three products for the price of one: use the fleece liner on its own for a lightweight change robe; don the quilted, waterproof parka for day-to-day wear; or zip the changing layer inside the outer jacket for an insanely snuggly coat and/or changing robe.

All the fabric is 100% recycled and unlike other changing robes the outer is made from premium twill, so it really feels like a proper coat.

There's still plenty of room to change and tons of handy pockets, plus toasty-boosting features like a toggle cord on the hood and a magnetic wind baffle.

It's our new companion for basically everything, even when the weather doesn't really call for it — it's just that gorgeous. Available in blue and black.

Buy if: You want a coat first, changing robe second. And you love a 2-for-1.
Don't buy if
: You're on a budget.

£299.95 at red-equipment.co.uk


Avocado Beach Oodie

Maybe you're not a hardcore wild swimmer or ice bath dunker, and you just want something simple to pop on at the beach while you change from swimsuit to beach bar attire. We get it, and we got you.

Enter the Beach Oodie. Yes, your favourite blanket hoodie brand make dinky little lightweight changing robes ideal for chucking on at the beach when you want a bit more coverage. It soaks up water fast (and dries quickly too), offers 50+ UPF protection, is super soft and machine washable too. Score.

Being one (giant) size, there's plenty of space to change underneath, but thanks to the single layer fabrication it drapes nicely on all shapes and sizes, so you don't look swamped if you're on the smaller side. Plus there's a handy storage pocket for your sunscreen.

Available in a range of designs — some ship on specific dates, so take note before you order.

Buy if: You want something fun and functional for days at the beach.
Don't buy if
: You need to warm up post-dip.

£65.00 at theoodie.co.uk


Changing Robe Adult Long Sleeve

If you’ve been mainlining (ok, rewatching) Bad Sisters on Apple TV like we have, you’ll have seen the cast sporting changing robes throughout, including this little Irish number!

With no bells, frills and whistles, Coucon’s changing robe is a classic that will take you from cold dips at the beach to fresh dog walks in the city.

While boasting with a thick sherpa lining — which does make it a little heavy, but nothing worth complaining about — this rarely crosses the line into sweaty, thanks to the moisture-wicking tech employed during the design process. The creators also rave about their decision to minimise the number of seams, saying this avoids any chance of rain, sleet or snow seeping through to the inside, and our personal testing can confirm they were right.

Slightly shorter in length than some other dry robes, this is a good option for the petite, although that two-way zip offers more legroom if this does end up falling further down your calves.

Available in some super bright colours and funky shades (see pictured), but more demure options are available too — the navy blue is particularly nice.

Buy if: You're a sweatier gal who needs something breathable.
Don't buy if
: You're on the shorter side.

$160.00 at couconrobe.com

What is a changing robe?

Sometimes known as change robes or dry robes (actually the name of a well-known brand), changing robes are essentially toasty portable capsules designed to protect you from the elements. 'Changing robes are clothes that work as mobile changing huts,' says Kate Rew, author of The Outdoor Swimmers’ Handbook and founder of the Outdoor Swimming Society.

First favoured by chilly surfers needing somewhere to shelter while changing out of wetsuits and rash vests, they're now also used by wild or cold water swimmers, paddle boarders and general outdoorsy folk.

'There are two types,' says Rew. 'Microfibre or towelling ones where you dry yourself off, change (neatly avoiding flashing or doing the towel dance) and then take them off. And then there's the big coat variety, which have fleecy linings and waterproof outers, where you can change and then keep them on, creating an individual micro-climate.'

As we're heading into winter (sigh), below we've included both cosy coat options as well as a few lighter towelling styles in case you're heading to warmer climes soon (jel), so you're ready for all seasons.

Do I need a changing robe?

While changing robes are by no means essential, if you make a habit of submerging yourself in freezing cold water, it's a good idea to have some means of warming yourself up afterwards. 'One of the many great things about outdoor swimming is that the kit needs are minimal,' says Rew. 'You can dry yourself in a standard towel, or make your own changing robe by sewing two towels together. And afterwards you can just wear a coat.'

Changing robes do come with a host of handy benefits, like cosy hoods and pockets for days, so they're worth the investment if you're regularly in need of a cold water companion. 'If you do become fanatic about cold water swimming, you might find changing robes are a nice thing to have,' says Rew.

It's also important to warm up quickly after swimming — especially in the cooler months — thanks to a phenomenon called 'afterdrop,' where your body temperature continues to decrease after exiting the water. 'You will be colder 10 minutes after you get out the water compared to when you are in it,' says Rew. 'So make getting dry and dressed a priority in winter particularly.'

How to use a changing robe

Using your changing robe is simple — just pop over wet gear after swimming, paddle boarding or surfing and get changed underneath. Then, if you've opted for a parka-style variety, you can stay cocooned inside to stay cosy.

'Take all wet things off, put warm things on (thermal base layers are good), layer up, and get a hot drink inside you,' advises Rew. 'In winter when skin is cold it's hard to dry it completely — clothes like jeans become very hard to get on as skin remains sticky. Bear that in mind when you consider what to wear to the river, lake or sea for a swim — you want clothes that are easy to pull on afterwards.'

Not just a convenient way to tick the post-swim warm and dry boxes, change robes are also great for camping, walking the dog or any outdoor activities in the colder months — just add as your final layer to stay snug and sheltered from winter weather.

What is the best changing robe?

Women's Health UK found the Red Long Sleeve Pro Change Robe EVO is the best changing robe for those after a more traditional dry robe (double layered with a waterproof shell and moisture-wicking lining). It's loaded with every feature you could wish for (including multiple handy pockets), is incredibly cosy, packs down well and is the robe we reach for time and time again.

For a towelling summer option the Vivida Original Poncho Towel Changing Robe is our top pick. It's comfortable, fast-drying and has a huge pocket on the front which in turn houses a zipped valuables pocket — a rarity in robes like this.

More cold water swimming gear...

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