It is one size but that does seem to cater for all — it feels incredibly cosy on me at 5’4”, but it’s also being used (stolen) on the reg by my 6’2” boyfriend who relies on it to take the edge off after an ice bath. We've worn this for everything from wild swimming and camping to dog walks, and it's done a sterling job at keeping us warm and dry in all weathers, all while looking chic too. What more can you really ask for? The oversized fit allows enough room for changing, but if you want to use it purely as a coat (and why wouldn’t you?) size down.

This microfibre towelling change robe from Vivida is super fast-drying (it claims to dry four times faster than cotton) and absorbs seven times its weight in water. We've only worn it on warm days and it did dry very fast, but can't speak to how it might hold up in chillier climes. We've got a huge range of change robes from all the top brands including Dryrobe, Northcore, Red Paddle Co and Mystic. If you've ever found yourself awkwardly clutching your towel around you with one hand while you try to get changed underneath it, then a surf poncho is just what you need. Orca Hooded Microfibre Beach Poncho Change Robe to keep you covered up on the beach while slipping in and out of your wetsuit/swim gear. Ideal for changing at the lido, the public swim pool, at the beach and even a car park, in fact anywhere where changing facilities are limited !Say hello to your new BFF: changing robes — if you’ve been mainlining (ok, rewatching) Bad Sisters on Apple TV like we have, you’ll have seen the cast sporting them throughout. They're arguably the most important piece of cold water swimming kit (after a swimsuit, that is). The marvellously named Saviour Aquilina of The Sup Store certainly thinks so. “Changing robes are epic!” he tells us. “The best designs feel light and enjoyable to wear and will keep swimmers dry after coming out of the water. We have even used them in the past to slow hyperthermia during a paddleboard race.”

A changing robe is a big investment, but a good one should last you a lifetime, so if you do decide to take the plunge make sure you've considered the following: Wear your surf poncho before and after doing your favourite watersport, on a camping trip or at an outdoor sporting event.

Size - Generally you want a changing robe that's long and roomy enough to use without exposing yourself to the cold or, you know, just exposing yourself. 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. Our microfibre robe is lightweight and compact enough to be thrown in your bag, ready for the next time. Our robe isn’t only just ideal for the beach it is also a handy accessory for any camping trips (think throwing on after a shower), festival trips and after muddying your clothes playing outdoor sports. There's nothing quite like the invigorating hit that comes with plunging yourself into icy cold water. And nothing quite so uncomfortable as the violent, chilblain-like shivers that set in once you get out. But you don't have to put up with the post-swim shakes to reap all the benefits of cold water swimming. While changing robes are by no means essential, if you make a habit of submerging yourself in freezing cold water, it's a good idea to have some means of warming yourself up afterwards. 'One of the many great things about outdoor swimming is that the kit needs are minimal,' says Rew. 'You can dry yourself in a standard towel, or make your own changing robe by sewing two towels together. And afterwards you can just wear a coat.'

The changing robes we've chosen here are products we truly recommend and feel are worth their price points — they can be pretty pricey, so we've made sure they're a sound investment and will last the test of time. 16 best changing robes to buy in 2023We're big fans of M&S' entire fitness line, Goodmove, and are thrilled they've dipped their toe in the wild swimming trend. This changing robe is everything you'd expect from the staple high street brand: unfussy, top quality and good value. A full zip on the front means getting it on and off is simple, plus the toggle hood means you can pull it tight to keep out windchill on those blustery days by the shore.

Our go-to changing robe is made using our favourite super-soft microfibre fabric. The ideal beach companion, our Lite change robe is lightweight and compact, the perfect to ‘throw in your bag companion’ that also keeps you warm, dries you and saves your dignity all in one. A staple bit of kit for any beach-goer, swimmer and surfer. Made of absorbent Microfiber Suede our hooded change robe is large enough for the whole family to comfortably get changed inside (one at a time, of course), whilst also drying you and keeping you warm. I find them invaluable in both summer and winter as they will save your dignity when you’re changing in or out of your water-wear in public. Our Saltie Lite Change Robe is perfect for drifting, swimming, mountaineering, travel, kayaking, hiking & camping plus many more activities. 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.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. Is it a changing mat or a changing bag? And what about that cosy bamboo foot muff? This is smoc smoc’s little surprise. Bury your feet in the bamboo muff and warm up those toes as they dry! Vivida are in the business of making seriously stylish and comfortable surf and lifestyle wear, and this changing robe is no exception. 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. 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.