Changing Robes – Are They Really Worth It?
Changing Robes – Are They Really Worth It?
Dryrobes and other brands of changing robes have become really popular over the last few years. They first started popping up on people on beaches and then quickly gained popularity with dog walkers and mums on the school run. This year, I have seen loads of people – grown-ups and children – wearing changing robes instead of a winter coat. In this guide, we’ll look at what changing robes are, if they are useful, and if they are really worth the investment. I bought one myself about a year ago so I will share my personal experience here too.
What are Changing Robes?
Changing robes were originally designed for surfers and swimmers to make getting changed at the beach or in other public places easy. They also help you warm up faster after getting out of the water.
They are oversized on purpose to allow easy changing underneath and are often waterproof and insulated/fleece-lined for extra warmth and weather protection.
When Should I Use a Changing Robe?
You can of course use a changing robe whenever you want. They’re especially great for their intended purpose – to get changed and to warm up after swimming or surfing. They’re also great for camping to stay warm when outside in the evening.
As mentioned above, lots of people use them as a comfortable alternative to a winter coat for school runs and walks too. I personally prefer proper winter coats as they are warmer (cold winter air can easily blow up the bottom of a changing robe) and are more suitable for everyday life.
So far, I have used my changing robe on holidays at the beach to warm up after swimming, in the mornings in cold caravans to stay warm, and when working from home in the winter when it’s been particularly cold! I’m really happy that I bought my changing robe – it’s been really useful so far and it’s one of my go-to things to pack for holidays, wild swimming, and car-camping adventures now.
Why are Changing Robes so Expensive?
Some brands of changing robes are really expensive. Sometimes, it can be due to the cost of the materials to create a durable, high-performance technical garments, and sometimes it can simply be due to a brand name. Additionally, when made from 100% recycled materials, this can also increase the cost of the manufacturing process which will also make the final product more pricey.
Are Changing Robes Worth It?
Yes, I would say they are worth buying – especially if you do beach/water sports. I would also add that I would not buy one at full price though. A Dryrobe branded one costs £175 which I think is extreme for what it is.
How to Get the Best Deal on Changing Robes?
You can find options that are much more affordable than Dryrobes or at least look out for sales and discount codes to get a better deal when buying a changing robe.
I bought my Regatta Adult Waterproof Changing Robe via Debenhams in the sale and with a discount code and it was less than £35 with shipping (RRP £120). They currently have another brand on offer for just under £26. I also recently purchased a children’s changing robe via Asda George which looks great. I got that for less than £9 in the sale – it was huge discount from the RRP and I also applied an Asda Rewards voucher for a further discount.
Are Cheaper Changing Robes Any Good?
Yes, you can get great changing robes that don’t cost as much as the leading brands that are still good quality. I’m really happy with the quality of my Regatta one. Though it’s not meant to be used in heavy rain as it doesn’t have the same kind of waterproof outside that brands like Dryrobe has.
For the purpose that I have bought mine for – getting changed on the beach, warming up after a swim, staying warm when camping, or for use indoors to warm up, it’s perfect for me and well worth what I spent on mine.
The one I have bought for the kids has a waterproof outer though so should be fine in the rain too. Like with mine, I have bought the kids one with beach holidays and family camping as the main purpose.
