Changing Robes Good For Outdoor Activities

In a world of camping, hiking and water sports, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Changing robes (also known as Brobes) are a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of benefits that elevate post-activity comfort and help you be prepared for varying weather conditions.

Initially popularised in the surfing community, Changing robe have become a go-to for all water sports and other activities where getting changed back into dry clothing can be tricky or awkward. They offer a convenient alternative to the traditional wetsuit or swimming trunks, providing an extra layer of warmth and insulation, and can be worn around camp, on a beach or even as a quick-drying towel when you’re out and about on your next adventure.

The robes are a great way to get changed quickly after a swim or surf session and can help prevent heat loss and chilliness, especially in brisk or windy conditions. The insulating inner lining traps heat, keeping you warm while you’re getting dressed and drying off. They are also ideal for use as a poncho during rain or wet weather and can even be worn over your regular kit to keep it dry if you get soaked on a hike or while kayaking.

As well as being super comfy to wear, a changing robe offers plenty of storage space for towels, waterproofs and other essentials. Many have zipped or pocketed outer surfaces that are suitable for holding belongings, while others feature a hood with velcro storm flaps and adjustable drawstrings to help block out the wind. Some also have a handy inner pocket for your phone or keys.

Are Changing Robes Good For Outdoor Activities?

A good quality robe is quick-drying and will feel soft and snuggly against the skin. Typically, the material is made from a synthetic fabric that is both waterproof and breathable, which means it helps you stay dry without feeling cold. Some robes also feature a thermal lining to keep you toasty warm in colder conditions.

There are a wide variety of styles available, with different colours and patterns to suit your taste. Some are designed to be lightweight, which is useful if you’re on a backpacking trip or need to travel light. Others are a bit heavier and more rugged, making them better for rough terrain or extreme weather.

For a more luxury option, try a Sherpa-lined robe from Two Bare Feet. This robe is designed to keep you warm and comfortable while changing, with the sherpa fleece lining making it super soft and hugging against your body. It has a few tweaks since its initial launch, including a redesigned and more practical hood and added waterproof key/phone pockets, as well as a stretchy thumbhole cuff to protect your hands from the elements while you’re wearing it. It’s a little on the pricey side, but you’re paying for both function and style.

However, the modern changing robe has evolved alongside the growing focus on active lifestyles, fitness, and outdoor activities. As people increasingly sought ways to change clothes outdoors or in shared spaces like gyms, pools, and beaches, manufacturers began to design robes specifically suited to this need. Today, changing robes are often made with high-tech materials that offer absorbency, warmth, and lightweight properties, catering to the active person who may need to change in a variety of settings.