Our verdict: An incredibly cosy and well-designed changing robe perfect for wild swimmers, surfers, beachgoers and those brave enough to battle the elements
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First impressions
Go for a Saturday morning beach stroll, and you’ll likely spot a group of wild swimmers sporting the Dryrobe label. From humble Cornwall beginnings to international success, Dryrobe has become hugely popular with surfers, beach walkers, and paddle boarders looking to stay warm and dry whilst battling the elements.
On test here is the Advance Short Sleeve design, one of the brand’s core products.
Straight away, you can tell this is a well-designed bit of kit. The materials feel high-quality. The thick rubber zip tag and hard wearing outer material suggest this is a product designed for those who head out in all conditions, plus, the sherpa-style towelling inner is delightfully soft. The design is fairly chunky and weighty too.
Fit
Our five foot six inch reviewer who typically wears a size eight opted for the small. There was ample room inside of the robe, and you can easily remove your arms from the sleeves whilst the robe is zipped up to aid with wet swimsuit removal. We changed on a riverbank after a swim and appreciated the privacy.
The baggy sleeves, despite being the ‘short’ option, essentially came down to our reviewer’s wrists, so they’re still long in length. But they’re short enough to not be a nuisance if you’re rummaging in a rucksack, or making tea from a flask.
There's a helpful size guide which helps you find the right fit. It’ll even let you choose between a jacket and changing robe fit.
Is it comfortable to wear?
Absolutely, yes. The snuggly and cosy texture of the sherpa-style towelling inner makes the thought of a chilly dip rather exciting. Wrap up post swim, and you’ll instantly feel a hit of warmth.
What really impressed us was how quickly the inner fleece lining dried after being exposed to wet swimwear. We were also taken with the fleece-lined pockets — they’re even softer than the sherpa-style towelling inner, and make for excellent hand-warmers.
The design is baggy and quite box-like, so you’re not very agile whilst wearing it, but for its purpose of keeping you warm and allowing for privacy whilst changing, its comfort can’t be denied. You’ve got the benefit of a 2-way YKK zip for effortless changing, so you’re covered for practicality too.
Are there any weatherproofing features?
The Dryrobe design has a waterproof rating of up to 10,000mm and features a PFC-free durable water-repellent finish, so you’re sorted for wet and wild beach walks and sports viewing. Plus, you can chuck it on the wet ground without worrying about moisture seeping through to the fleece. We found on review it made for a handy base for other kit thanks to its wide surface area once splayed open.
The design also features a windproof exterior, and on a particularly blustery seaside dog walk, we felt incredibly warm and protected from the elements.
Is it easy to pack?
Waterproof changing robes in general are on the chunkier side, so this is not a design you can roll up and squeeze into a rucksack by any means. You’ll not want to walk far with it either, as it weighs 1.3kg. Keep it in the boot of the car, and sling it over your arm along with your wet and sandy wetsuits and gear. You don’t have to be too precious with this hardy piece of kit!
Is it durable?
We rated the Dryrobe Advance highly for its durability thanks to a robust exterior and thick rubber zip tag. We experienced no wear and tear on review.
We were impressed with the eco-credentials too as the changing robe has been made with 100% recycled nylon and 100% recycled polyester.
Good value?
A Dryrobe changing robe is a hefty investment, but we can’t deny the impressive build and decent eco-credentials. If you’re going to wear the Dryrobe on a regular basis, we’d say it’s a worthwhile buy.
We’d also say that once you’ve got it, you’ll likely find as many excuses as possible to put it on.
Best suited for:
Water-sport enthusiasts and regular beach goers — anyone who is serious about staying warm and dry!
Facts at a glance: Dryrobe Advance Short Sleeve
- Range of sizes: S, M, X, LX (children's sizes also available)
- Range of colours: Black exterior with pink, blue or grey fleece lining
- Material: 100% recycled nylon (outer shell), 100% recycled polyester (fleece lining)
- Weight: 1.3kg (small)
- RRP: £145
For more outdoor kit, check out the best wild swimming gear.
