Our verdict: A great-looking and long-lasting quality piece of kit for days out by the coast. The full coverage and warmth is well suited to changing post surf or swim, dog walks and even rainy school runs.
- Buy now from Red (£159.95), Amazon (£159.00)
Jump to product specifications
First impressions
This is a great dry robe from market leaders Red – but given the hefty price tag, it has a lot to live up to. Pleasingly, it does, with an extremely comfortable feel, excellent warmth, expansive coverage and a stylish look. This is the kind of robe one can wear out and about with panache. Plus it’s made from 100% recycled materials, so you’re doing a good deed for the environment. Particular perks are its extra length, soft fleece-lining (including pockets and hood), and weatherproof qualities.
Fit
Obviously, with a dry robe, you are looking for coverage without being swamped. The sizing is accurate – our reviewer chose a large as suggested due to their height and found that it looked good on while also giving them enough wiggle room to change within.
Is it comfortable to wear?
It is very comfortable to wear, like snuggling up in a blanket that you can respectably walk around in. It is designed to be loose fitting but remains remarkably warm, with a cosy fur lining that warms and dries, and a fleece-lined hood and pockets. The hood is adjustable, to pull close for warmth, while the two deep outside pockets have magnetic connectors to close. Stretchy panel vents offer some ‘give’ to make changing easier. As well as the full-length zip, it has quick-closure poppers for fast privacy.
Are there any weatherproofing features?
According to the manufacturers, the robe has “triple layer construction for added thermal retention”. The effect certainly does keep the wearer warm, so is great for countering for post-swim cooling. It has nicely chunky zips that open inside or out, with easy hold zip pulls – a neat provision for freezing, fumbling fingers – as well as fleece-lined pockets to warm hands.
The specifications state that the shell is 8k / 3k PFC free DWR waterproof and windproof, with excellent water run-off, while remaining breathable to let moisture out. Its breathability is important when using it to get changed in, as a fair amount of moisture will be present post-swim or surf, but the breathable shell allows the interior to dry out between uses.
Taped seams and a concealed front zip keep wind chill out. There is also a waterproof chest pocket.
Is it easy to pack?
It’s not a small item, and as Red’s robes offer greater length and coverage, it can’t be claimed that these pack up small. You wouldn’t have space for much else in a backpack if you were trying to travel light. However, despite its size, it is fairly light in weight.
Durability?
These robes are long-lasting, hardwearing items, which they should be, given the investment and repeated exposure to the elements.
The robe is made from 100% recycled polyester, and is well constructed, promising durability. It should be handwashed or at a gentle machine wash – for best care, avoid washing after every use, and hang dry at room temperature.
Good value?
The price tag reflects the quality. However, it is a bulky bit of kit, so worth thinking about how often one will use it and when – if you like to travel very light to and from the beach, this might not be the best purchase for you.
Best suited for:
You’re likely to find a range of uses for the Red Pro Change Robe Evo including post-surf changing, style by the sea, luxe living outdoors and wet dog walks.
Facts at a glance:
- Range of sizes: Kids, small, medium, large, X-large
- Range of colours: Coogee sunrise, fuschia pink, grey, iceburg aqua, mulberry wine, navy, parker green, sea mist, stealth black, teal
- Material: 100% recycled polyester, Fur-Style Sherpa Fleece, moisture wicking
- Weight: 1.7kg (for large size)
- RRP: £159.95
For more changing robe options, and gift ideas for the adventure lovers in your life, check out our roundup of the best wild swimming gifts.
