Top 6 Changing Robes – [Used & Reviewed]

After a long day on the water or an unexpected dip overboard, wrapping yourself in a changing robe is great for staying warm and dry.

Designed to fit over your PFD or foul weather gear, these full-length robes provide coverage for changing out of wet sailing clothes without wind chill or compromising privacy on deck.

The best changing robes feature waterproof outer shells that shed spray. Inside, fleece or microfiber lining wicks moisture and traps body heat. The hood uses the same construction to dry your head.

We tested changing robes across price points in real sailing conditions and identified these top 5 performers for mariners.

Changing Robes: Buyer’s Guide

Changing robes are both a luxury item and a very useful one too. They are above all else very practical for changing out of wet clothes and staying warm.

But how do you find “the one”? That changing robe you can rely on no matter what the weather is? One that makes your outdoor experiences easier? How would you find the product that returns the most value for its cost?

Different Fabric, Seams and Design

The most common factor when purchasing any product is the materials used. It can range from wool and towel-like material to microfibers with other waterproof fabrics for changing robes. A closer look at the outer shell and inner lining will benefit you in the long run.

A waterproof changing robe, like the Bluefin Heatwave or Dryrobe, protects one’s body (internal temperature, etc.) from the rain. That double-duty purpose isn’t found on cheaper models to the same extent. Of course, the price difference between the Aqua Parka Gill and the Northshore reflects this.

The fabric’s breathability is also vital in the whole drying process. Without proper airflow, you’ll stay wet and cold while using your changing robe, defeating its entire purpose.

It’s crucial to weigh these products’ breathability, durability, and weatherproofness for the best user experience. And this in-depth review of the best changing robes will help you with this grueling task.

What Dimensions Make for the Best Changing Robe

Now, the dimensions- your comfort dictator. We’re talking about your size, the sleeve length, cut, and stretch panels.

It’s usually the case that each product has its sizing guide since it can vary from product to product, depending on the materials used and its layering. Pay attention to the detailed guidelines to avoid wasting money on a changing robe that’ll only sit at the corner collecting dust.

Whether you want it with short or long sleeves is a matter of personal preference. Long-sleeve changing robes give you the most warmth, but maneuvering your arms gets tricky. On the other hand, short sleeves offer you mobility.

Inside the robe, how much room do you get? Does it have stretch panels giving you extra space when moving while you change from your wetsuit to casuals? You don’t want your legs poking out of the fabric to the point of breaking it, right?

How about the cut? You might come across affordable changing robes with V-cut. This means the side edges are way shorter than the front and back, exposing you, especially in unforgiving winds.

All of these factors contribute to your overall ease of use. Avoid overlooking each to get the best value for your hard-earned money.

Changing Robe Features

What makes a changing robe stand out of the bunch? Valuable features. It may be extra thought in the zips, making them waterproof like the rest of the product. It can also be on the pockets, inner and outer.

One detriment that most waterproof products suffer from is in the zips. They are usually made with little to no protection, beating the entire “waterproof” game down. Note whether the zips are taped or coated- these prevent water and wind penetration. Waterproof zippers are now also a thing that most manufacturers use in their changing robes.

Pockets- they keep your hands free and your valuables safe within reach. How many of them would you like your changing robe and where? Inside, close to your body, or accessible from the outside? What items would you like to keep in them?

Waterproof outer pockets ensure that your phone and other tech gadgets can easily slip into a safe place in case a heavy downpour visits you out of nowhere.

And, of course, the hood. Is it adjustable through a drawstring or not? Maybe it’s removable as well?

Can you choose from a wide range of colors? Do you want it to be bright or low-profile? Any particular design in mind that represents your personality?

Profile: Weight & Carrying

For paddle boarding, it’s possible to stuff clothing and personal items in a dry bag or waterproof backpack and secure it onto the board. But changing robes take up a lot of space.

Weight is another factor we need to consider when comparing these products.

Comfort

Can it keep you warm during the cold season? Changing robes with towel-lining typically gives the most heat retention. The best way to confirm is by digging through the reviews. Although, if you’re in a tropical paradise, warmth might not be necessary for you.

How about the feels? Does the fabric smoothly touch your body? Fleece-lined ones are commonly known for their softness.

Packing Size

How portable do you need your changing robe to be? Can it sit inside your bag with more room left for other valuables? Or do you need a separate bag for it alone? Maybe it needs to stay at the back of your car?

You want a changing robe you can carry anywhere- one that can offer you comfort at your fingertips.

Ease of Care

How do you maintain a changing robe at its optimal condition? Do you need to set aside time for hand-washing? Modern designs can withstand machine-wash. Do you need to put it into a laundry bag first? Or can you safely throw it inside? Perhaps there’s a special care instruction included in the package?

How long would it take to dry? Can you tumble-dry it, or must it be left hanging or flat to air-dry?

A machine-friendly changing robe is a must if you have a flooded daily schedule.

How about DWR (Durable Water Repellent)? Do you need to purchase them to recoat the changing robe from time to time? If so, when should you do it?

Does your changing robe come with a bag? Does it require washing separately as well?

Price

Is the quality worth the tag? How much are you willing to spend?

Expect that the quality increases along with the cost. But! That’s not to say that affordable changing robes are crappy. With enough attention to details and a little time investment in researching and reading reviews, you’re sure to land on the best changing robe that ticks your needs and budget.

That sums up our complete lowdown in the best changing robes in the market today. Which one ticked your interest? Let us know in the comments below!