Changing Robe vs Microfiber Towel: Which is Best for Wild Swimmers?

If you’ve ever stood on a shingle beach in Brighton or a grassy bank beside a Scottish loch, shivering as the British wind bites through your wet swimwear, you know that the “after-swim” is just as important as the swim itself. In the UK, wild swimming isn’t just about the water; it’s about the art of the “quick change” before hypothermia—or a stray dog—interrupts your peace.

The gear world is currently split into two camps: the Changing Robe (often called the “Dryrobe” camp) and the Microfiber Towel loyalists. One side offers a portable, fleece-lined fortress; the other offers lightweight, minimalist efficiency.

As someone who has fumbled with a towel in a rainy car park more times than I care to admit, I’m here to help you decide: which one deserves a permanent spot in your kit bag?

The Changing Robe: Your Portable Sanctuary

In the last five years, changing robes have become the unofficial uniform of the British coastline. Whether it’s the original Dryrobe, Red Original, or Alpkit’s versions, these oversized, weather-proof coats have changed the game.

Why they are a must-have for UK swimmers:

• Weather Protection: In the UK, it’s rarely just “cold”—it’s usually windy and drizzly. A changing robe has a waterproof outer shell that acts as a shield while you get changed underneath.

• Privacy: They are designed to be “tent-like.” You can pull your arms inside, strip off your wetsuit, and get dressed without flashing the entire promenade.

• Thermal Recovery: The fleece lining wicks water off your skin while trapping body heat. It’s the fastest way to stop “the after-drop” (the shivering that starts 10 minutes after you exit the water).

The Downside: They are bulky. If you’re hiking two miles into a “secret” swimming hole in the Peak District, carrying a massive robe is a bit of a faff.

The Microfiber Towel: The Minimalist’s Dream

Before the “robe revolution,” we all had microfiber towels. Brands like Dock & Bay or Lifeventure have perfected these ultra-thin, highly absorbent cloths.

Why the “old school” way still wins for some:

• Space Saving: A microfiber towel can be folded down to the size of a paperback book. If you’re a “swim-hiker” or travelling light, this is unbeatable.

• Rapid Drying: Unlike a traditional cotton towel, these dry in the sun (or on a car seat) in no time. No more carrying a heavy, damp, sandy towel back home.

• Price: A high-quality microfiber towel will cost you £20; a premium changing robe can set you back £150.

The Downside: They offer zero protection from the wind. Changing under a towel in a 20mph gale on a North Sea beach is a high-stakes game of “oops, there go my knickers.”

Head-to-Head: Which One Should You Choose?

The “Hybrid” Alternative: The Terry-Cloth Poncho

If you’re undecided, there is a middle ground: the cotton or microfiber towel poncho. Brands like SwimSecure or Zone3 make these. They offer the “tent” privacy of a changing robe but are made of towel material. They aren’t waterproof, but they are easier to carry than a heavy dry robe.

Pro Tips for the “Post-Swim Glow”

1. The Warmth Layer: If using a towel, have your layers laid out in order: underwear, thermal leggings, fleece, woolly hat.

2. The Robe Hack: If it’s raining, put your changing robe on before you get out of the water. Just reach for it on the bank and dive in.

3. The Sand Shake: Microfiber towels are “sand-repellent”—a quick shake and the beach stays on the beach, not in your boot.

FAQ: Post-Swim Kit Questions

1. Is a changing robe worth the £150 price tag?

If you swim year-round in the UK, absolutely. It will extend your swimming season into the winter months by making the exit from the water much safer and more comfortable.

2. Can I wash my changing robe in the machine?

Yes, but do it sparingly. Frequent washing can strip the waterproof DWR coating. Always use a technical wash (like Nikwax) rather than standard detergent.

3. Do microfiber towels feel “weird” on the skin?

They can feel a bit “grabby” compared to fluffy cotton. The trick is to pat yourself dry rather than rubbing.

4. What size changing robe should I get?

Always size up. You need enough room to pull your arms inside to change. If it looks “too big” while you’re standing still, it’s probably the right size for changing.

5. How do I stop my changing robe from smelling damp?

Never leave it crumpled in the car. Hang it up as soon as you get home in a well-ventilated area. If the fleece gets damp, it needs airflow to dry out properly.