Bluefin Heatwave Changing Robe Reviewed in 2025

A Great Changing Robe

The Heatwave robe is made with a recycled nylon and a sherpa fleece lining. That makes it both a more sustainably sourced material as well as one that’s easier to recycle.

A plant-based waterproof coating aims to balance performance and environmental responsibility effectively. It seemed to do this during our paddling and swim sessions.

The robe’s multiple pockets, including a large internal one, are big enough for storing a hat, glasses, keys, phone and wallet and are nice for keeping hands warm.

Detachable sleeves are really nice for movement and during warmer seasons. During certain times of year and in certain regions, the sleeves will likely remain permanently off. In this case, you just need to remember where they are when winter arrives.

Good zippers and 4 different sizes round out a pretty comfortable, useful and environmentally friendlier changing robe.

Eco-Friendly Materials

The Bluefin Heatwave robe is made of primarily nylon materialsThis is a noteworthy choice, given the push for sustainability by divers, swimmers, paddlers and any outdoor enthusiast–we count ourselves among them.

Many brands are following in the footsteps of outdoor juggernauts like Patagonia in the chase for the climate-aware market of consumers.

While we applaud the move towards sustainable fashion, a grain of salt must always be applied. No matter what, a hand wash-only care regime prolongs the garment’s life, which aligns with eco-friendly practices.

We applaud Bluefin for making some strides here.

Advanced Heat-Efficient Features

Our experience with the Heatwave robe includes winter swim sessions in frigid weather. This is the type of temperature that almost stops your heart upon submerging. Climbing out of the water and into the warm embrace of a changing robe has proven a reward in itself.

Although there aren’t complex technical systems, the material and design choices lend themselves to a heat-efficient robe. With a room to remove a bathing suit, dry off and get some dry clothes on before the onset of the cold shakes, it doesn’t get much more efficient than that.

While paddling on a SUP during chillier mornings, too, the extra space has a moderating affect on body temperature as well.

Overall, our hands-on experience with the Bluefin Sup Heatwave robe shows its worth.

Key Features

Changing robes follow the same formula. What separates them are the features and, in some cases, the production profile. The Heatwave caters to these needs with its array of features that both outdoor enthusiasts and eco-conscious consumers would appreciate.

Stormproof Eco-Finish

The Stormproof eco-finish is a huge plus for those of us who are increasingly mindful of the impact we have on the environments we use. The material does well in wet conditions, which is great when its raining and its cold and refuge in the robe is necessary. It doesn’t seem like the eco-friendly aspect compromises performance at all.

Sherpa Fleece Lining

The warmth provided by the Sherpa fleece lining is undeniably cozy. We noticed how it offers comfort and insulation without adding unnecessary bulk, which is crucial when you need to move freely. This feature proves that the robe doesn’t just protect from the elements and ensures warmth and comfort on those chilly days.

Detachable Sleeves

Flexibility in outdoor gear is always a plus, and the detachable sleeves on this robe are a feature we’ve not seen on other products. There are also velcro fasteners at the wrists for cinching and keeping hands free.

Converting it into a long-sleeved vest is ideal for fluctuating weather conditions or when you’re breaking a sweat. The only concern we have is losing track of one or both sleeves.

YKK Zip and Pockets

Durability often comes down to the details, and we couldn’t help but notice the YKK zippers in the design. Known for their robustness, the YKK zipper closing the robe hasn’t snagged or gotten stuck, a common frustration with lesser-quality zips.

HOWEVER! It’s a shame that the zippers on the sleeves aren’t YKK and do get snagged a bit. So, not easy to open and close, but we assume removal wasn’t conceived to be an often occurrence.

The pockets are also well-placed and big enough for all sorts of essentials.

Overall, the Heatwave robe balances environmental considerations with practical, user-oriented design. While everyone has unique requirements for their outdoor gear, such balanced features certainly put a positive profile on this robe.

Conclusion

Having tried out the Bluefin Sup Heatwave robe for winter swimming and paddling, we’re quite impressed with the design and features. It has some unique elements, in particuar the removable sleeves. The Sherpa lining feels very nice against the skin and, more importantly, immediately starts to dry on contact. It’s absorbent without any itchiness, and there’s space for changing and packing any gear up.

All the sustainability packed into the design intent is a welcome sign of where market attitudes are shifting. It’s also good for those of us that care about the environment and like companies to signal a willingness to be better.

The Bluefin SUP Heatwave robe does as well as any changing robe, battling chilly and wet conditions while staying environmentally mindful. With its warm materials, secure pockets, and adjustable features, we’re confident in recommending it for anyone looking to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.