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  • 10 Best Changing Robes UK 2024 | Northcore, Vivida and More 1
  • 10 Best Changing Robes UK 2024 | Northcore, Vivida and More 2
  • 10 Best Changing Robes UK 2024 | Northcore, Vivida and More 3
  • 10 Best Changing Robes UK 2024 | Northcore, Vivida and More 4
  • 10 Best Changing Robes UK 2024 | Northcore, Vivida and More 5

10 Best Changing Robes UK 2024 | Northcore, Vivida and More

We've all had that awkward experience with a towel coming loose while struggling to get changed at the beach. That's why in recent years changing robes have become quite the revelation for anyone who loves the surf and the water. By freeing up your hands and providing protection from the weather, they make getting changed on the sand or in cold car parks a little more enjoyable.


These towelling dry robes have taken the watersports world by storm, with reputable brands like Olaian, Vivida and Culthood catering toward water babies and hardened sea veterans alike. Amazon and Decathlon have far too many quality changing robes to choose from, so we've made your life a little easier by whittling them down to the very best of the best! 

Last updated 22/03/2024

Quick List - Top Changing Robes

1

Olaian

Surf Poncho 500
Surf Poncho 500

The Changing Robe That Has It All for Less

2

Culthood

Changing Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket
Changing Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket

A Plush Microfibre Robe With Pockets Galore

3

Fit-Flip

Changing Robe for Women & Men
Changing Robe for Women & Men

The Ultimate Changing Robe and Lounging Towel

4

Vivida Lifestyle

Hooded Poncho Towel Changing Robe With Zip Pocket
Hooded Poncho Towel Changing Robe With Zip Pocket

Vivida's Emphasis on Style and Design Is on Show With This Robe

5

Oksun

Changing Robe Towel Poncho with Hood
Changing Robe Towel Poncho with Hood

Plush and Over-Sized - This Robe Has You Covered in Style

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Changing Robe in the UK - Buying Guide

In this simple buying guide, you'll come to know the different types of changing robe materials and features, as well as learning a few defining features such as those all-important pockets. Keeping these things in mind will ensure that even on the bleakest midwinter's day, you'll be getting changed with a teeth-chattering smile on your dial. 

1

How Warm, Absorbent and Travel-Friendly a Changing Robe Is Will Be Defined by Its Material

A changing robe will either be a perfectly-slim travel companion or a thick and woolly number to keep the changing chills at bay. Whether it's made from cotton or microfibre will tell a lot about a robe's best features, but the thickness still needs to be addressed, especially when on the hunt for a microfibre variety. 

If a Changing Robe Is Cotton It Will Be Ultra-Warming

If a Changing Robe Is Cotton It Will Be Ultra-Warming

Cotton changing robes are wonderfully warm, so they're perfect to whip straight on after exiting the cold British sea. They give the feeling of entering a cosy, comforting cocoon, and feel the most like a normal towel with good drying potential. Due to their thick cotton loops, they can absorb a lot of water.


Because of this water absorption, however, cotton generally doesn't dry as quickly as synthetic materials. This means that if you're surfing multiple times a day, you'll be lucky if your cotton robe isn't sopping wet by the end of it. Obviously, it all comes down to how well you mediate this throughout the day, but it's still something to consider.


Plus, as a result of their thickness, cotton robes won't pack down as compactly as those made from microfibre. This is OK if you're staying local, but it could make all the difference if suitcases or backpacks are at play. 

Microfibre Changing Robes Can Be as Thin or Thick as You Wish

Microfibre Changing Robes Can Be as Thin or Thick as You Wish
Source:amazon.co.uk

Microfibre changing robes can either be super plush or ultra-thin. Either way, they are mostly made of polyester, which means they'll typically be quick to dry compared to their cotton counterparts.


The thin microfibre changing robes are lightweight and easily foldable to fit wherever you want them to, making them perfect for travel. They are the quickest drying changing robes available as their thin fibres can only absorb small amounts of water. 


Plush microfibre robes are thicker, which allows for added protection against the elements. They subsequently won't dry as quickly as the thinner microfibre options, but they are a popular choice as they strike a good balance between warmth and drying time.

2

A Changing Robe's Worth Will Come Down to the Features It's Packing

Changing robes have a few telling features to look out for. Finding the right robe for you might come down to a subtle difference in one particular feature – from pockets, hoods, changing holes and side snaps, there are different styles of robe that excel in different ways. 

Pockets Can Prove Very Useful for Storing Keys, Warming the Hands, or Both!

Pockets Can Prove Very Useful for Storing Keys, Warming the Hands, or Both!

One feature that's sure to have you hanging around in your robe for a little longer than you really need to is a pocket. It may seem trivial, but having a deep pouch pocket to tuck your frozen hands into will have them thawing out in no time.


Some changing robes have even gone so far as to include a zip pocket to allow safe storage of your keys and phone while changing. This alleviates the risk of misplacing your essentials in the potentially cold and sandy car park. Clever changing robe fodder indeed!

Hoods Are Built Into All Changing Robes – the Trick Is to Find a Hood to Be Proud of

Hoods Are Built Into All Changing Robes – the Trick Is to Find a Hood to Be Proud of

What good would a changing robe be without a hood? Nestling your weary head into a comforting hood is one of the greatest pleasures of any changing robe experience.


It's the cotton and plush microfibre changing robes that will have your head covered and then some. Look out for words like over-sized, baggy, or simply just 'large' when on the hunt for the cosiest hood in all the land, especially if you have long hair that takes a while to dry. 


Some of the higher-end changing robes also add drawstrings to their hoods, which are an even better option for keeping you more tucked away from the elements than you ever thought possible.

Side Splits Will Allow for More Movement When Changing, Walking and Just Plain Chilling

Side splits are built into changing robes for the sole purpose of giving your legs more room to move. By having this additional movement, you'll be able to change with ease and gain confidence in your ability to get dressed without taking an unfortunate tumble. 


The additional leg mobility will also make walking and chilling in your robe pleasurable and easy.

Changing Holes Ensure Added Privacy and Manoeuvrability for Your Arms

Another small but clever feature to look for in a robe is the addition of a set of changing holes for your hands. By not having to put your arms inside the robe, you'll have extra mobility while dressing and undressing. 


This can be a lifesaver when you're bending, reaching and wriggling back into your clothes, especially when your limbs have become numb!

Side Snaps Will Give You Added Privacy or the Possibility to Lounge

Side Snaps Will Give You Added Privacy or the Possibility to Lounge

Side snaps are a priceless feature for when you want some diversity in your changing robe. Their ability to turn your robe into a large beach towel in a matter of seconds is very useful, especially when the priorities of the day revolve around as much beach or pool time as possible. 


Their interchangeability doesn't stop there though. With these nifty little snaps, you'll be able to clip your robe to a sun lounger or chair while on holiday, gaining extra comfort for lounging wherever you and your robe go. 


If a changing robe has one side snap on each side, its purpose is to give you more privacy while getting changed. Snapping shut the bulk of the armhole will really tuck you in so there'll be no accidental flashes while you go about getting changed inside. 

Changing Robes Cater for Tiny Tots and Sea-Voyaging Vikings Alike, so Be Sure to Check the Size

Many surfers and fish-people in general want the biggest and baggiest changing robes available. With an over-sized changing robe you will benefit from more space to get changed in and less chance of your privacy being compromised. Also, your surfer 'steeze' car park cred will go way up if you're adorned in the baggiest, comfort-crushing robe.


Changing robes have become so popular in recent years that you can now find a perfect fit for the whole family. From your toddler to the still-growing 18-year-old giant you somehow helped to grow, there's now a changing robe for everyone. Just be sure to check out any sizing guides against your measurements. 

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Top 10 Best Changing Robes in the UK

Now you're savvy to the different materials and features that changing robes have to offer, it's time to reveal the ten very best changing robes online in the UK today. From super stylish to plain and simple, there's something to suit everyone's taste in this eclectic list. 
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Olaian

Surf Poncho 500

Olaian Surf Poncho 500 1

The Changing Robe That Has It All for Less

2

Culthood

Changing Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket

Culthood Changing Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket 1

A Plush Microfibre Robe With Pockets Galore

3

Fit-Flip

Changing Robe for Women & Men

Fit-Flip Changing Robe for Women & Men 1

The Ultimate Changing Robe and Lounging Towel

4

Vivida Lifestyle

Hooded Poncho Towel Changing Robe With Zip Pocket

Vivida Lifestyle Hooded Poncho Towel Changing Robe With Zip Pocket 1

Vivida's Emphasis on Style and Design Is on Show With This Robe

5

Oksun

Changing Robe Towel Poncho with Hood

Oksun Changing Robe Towel Poncho with Hood 1

Plush and Over-Sized - This Robe Has You Covered in Style

6

Citycomfort

Kids Hooded Towel Poncho

Citycomfort Kids Hooded Towel Poncho 1

An All-Cotton Robe to Keep the Kids Warm

7

Vulken

Extra Large Thick Hooded Beach Towel Changing Robe

Vulken Extra Large Thick Hooded Beach Towel Changing Robe 1

An Oversized Changing Robe With Steeze and Ease

8

Northcore

Beach Basha Changing Poncho

Northcore Beach Basha Changing Poncho 1

One of the Originals That Prides Itself on Quality and Warmth

9

Vivida

Original Baby Hooded Poncho

Vivida Original Baby Hooded Poncho  1

The Finest Changing Robe for Any Prince or Princess Under 3

10

Jian Ya Na

Children's Unisex Outdoor Changing Robe

Jian Ya Na Children's Unisex Outdoor Changing Robe 1

A Cute and Inexpensive Changing Robe for the Kids

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Olaian
Surf Poncho 500

Surf Poncho 500 1
Reference price
£19.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£19.99
Low Mid

The Changing Robe That Has It All for Less

This changing robe has all the features you would expect from a quality robe but for a fraction of the price. The 100% cotton material will give you plenty of warmth alongside the over-sized hood and pouch pocket, and it promises to dry in about an hour and a half. 


The extra-stretchy arm holes coupled with the changing holes will give you plenty of privacy and movement while getting changed, so you can enjoy your day without worry. Coming in two colourways, this quality, stylish changing robe for under £20 ensures Olaian have outdone their competitors yet again.  

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No.2

Culthood
Changing Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket

Changing Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Changing Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Changing Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket 3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£63.58
High
Reference price
£63.58
High

A Plush Microfibre Robe With Pockets Galore

Made in Europe, this changing robe from Culthood ticks all the boxes and then some. For starters, it will keep you super warm with its plush microfibre material, over-sized drawstring hood and deep pouch pocket. 


The features don't stop there: the additional zip pocket will mean stashing your phone or keys while getting changed will be safe and easy, and the extra length at the back gives added protection from the weather. Plus, the side splits give added mobility – crucial for running back from checking the surf forecast and getting changed at a rapid rate! 

No.3

Fit-Flip
Changing Robe for Women & Men

Changing Robe for Women & Men 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Changing Robe for Women & Men 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Changing Robe for Women & Men 3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£25.99
Mid
Reference price
£25.99
Mid

The Ultimate Changing Robe and Lounging Towel

This thin microfibre changing robe from Fit-Flip comes highly recommended on Amazon for its entirely snapped sides. They quickly turn this robe into an extra-long lounging towel in a matter of seconds. 


The perfect changing companion for taking it slow on beach and pool days, this robe comes in five different bright colours, allowing for a touch of personalisation with this envy-inducing double act. At around £25, it's a small investment for an invaluable product. 

No.4

Vivida Lifestyle
Hooded Poncho Towel Changing Robe With Zip Pocket

Hooded Poncho Towel Changing Robe With Zip Pocket 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Hooded Poncho Towel Changing Robe With Zip Pocket 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£59.00
High Mid
Reference price
£59.00
High Mid

Vivida's Emphasis on Style and Design Is on Show With This Robe

Vivida have created eight styles of beauty-defining robes for the avid water enthusiast who wants to dry off and look good while doing so. They have a design for everyone within this range, while two adult sizes (one of which is suitable for wider builds up to a generous 6 foot 5) offer even more inclusion.


These robes come with plenty of features too, from an over-sized drawstring hood to a pouch with an additional inner-zip pocket. The side openings and side splits round out a truly remarkable plush microfibre delight. Just be ready to pay for all this stylish feature-filled robe-wearing glory!

No.5

Oksun
Changing Robe Towel Poncho with Hood

Changing Robe Towel Poncho with Hood 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Changing Robe Towel Poncho with Hood 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£30.99
Mid
Reference price
£30.99
Mid

Plush and Over-Sized - This Robe Has You Covered in Style

This stylish robe from Oksun will keep you warm and looking good the whole year round. Its oversized hood and extra long sleeves give added protection from the elements, while oozing those dressed-down baggy surf vibes. 


The changing holes allow for ease while getting dressed and the wide pouch pocket will keep your hands toasty even on the breeziest of days. Added side splits compensate for the oversized length, allowing for extended movement in your legs.

No.6

Citycomfort
Kids Hooded Towel Poncho

Kids Hooded Towel Poncho 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£17.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£17.99
Low Mid

An All-Cotton Robe to Keep the Kids Warm

This 100% cotton robe from Citycomfort will have the kids warming up in no time. As well as a few different colours and patterns it comes in two sizes, so kids from 6-13 will have the chance to rug up in a thick and water-absorbent changing robe. 


The pouch pocket will have their hands warming even after hours of water-based fun. From the pool to the beach, the lake or even the river, this robe will become a staple of any day family day out where chilly water and weather is certain to be found.

No.7

Vulken
Extra Large Thick Hooded Beach Towel Changing Robe

Extra Large Thick Hooded Beach Towel Changing Robe 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£33.99
Mid
Reference price
£33.99
Mid

An Oversized Changing Robe With Steeze and Ease

This oversized changing robe will give you the look and feel of an ancient surf warrior. It comes in two sizes – S/M and L/XL – which allows everyone to adorn this insanely baggy robe that oozes style and steeze.


In terms of practical features, its large armholes can be snapped shut, giving you added privacy while changing. You won't have to worry about tripping up in the added length either, as there's a large side split down each side.

No.8

Northcore
Beach Basha Changing Poncho

Beach Basha Changing Poncho 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£34.79
Mid
Reference price
£34.79
Mid

One of the Originals That Prides Itself on Quality and Warmth

This is a tried-and-tested changing robe from Northcore that will keep you warm on those chillier days spent by the beach. It's also made from 100% terry towelling making it very water absorbent.


The Beach Basha doesn't overcomplicate things with too many bells and whistles; it just does what it says it does well, and that's it. This does make it less practical for travel as it's thick and featureless, but if you're in the market for warmth above all else you could do worse than the Northcore Beach Basha.

No.9

Vivida
Original Baby Hooded Poncho

Original Baby Hooded Poncho  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£39.00
High Mid
Reference price
£39.00
High Mid

The Finest Changing Robe for Any Prince or Princess Under 3

Vivida are in the business of making seriously stylish and comfortable surf and lifestyle wear, and this changing robe is no exception.


Designed for the water baby under 3, these cuddly plush microfibre hooded robes will have your child feeling as snug as a bug at all times of the day. The only hitch is that when you know they're ultimately destined to grow out of their robe, a price like this can seem expensive. 

No.10

Jian Ya Na
Children's Unisex Outdoor Changing Robe

Children's Unisex Outdoor Changing Robe 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£14.96
Low
Reference price
£14.96
Low

A Cute and Inexpensive Changing Robe for the Kids

This cheap and cheerful changing robe comes in six bright and fun colours. It's a thin microfibre robe that's perfect to fit in the beach bag or suitcase for weekends away and holidays. 


The side snaps allow for added privacy while changing, and the side splits will also give the kids more movement when having fun is the order of the day. They'll really start to adore this robe for its light and breezy feel. However, it's really only suited to the summer months due to its thin design

Summary

Changing robes have become an invaluable addition to the checklist of anyone who takes their water-time seriously, making those awkward and unwanted changing moments a thing of the past. We hope through reading this article that you've found the perfect changing robe; the one that is set to keep you warm and equipped for whatever is likely to come your way.


Author: Connor Macanally

Top 5 Changing Robes

No. 1: OlaianSurf Poncho 500

No. 2: CulthoodChanging Robe Towel Poncho With Zip Pocket

No. 3: Fit-FlipChanging Robe for Women & Men

No. 4: Vivida LifestyleHooded Poncho Towel Changing Robe With Zip Pocket

No. 5: OksunChanging Robe Towel Poncho with Hood

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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