Poncho towels and weatherproof changing robes are useful options for anyone trying to stay warm and dry after being in the water. However, there are differences between the two types of accessories that may affect which one you choose.
What are poncho towels?
A poncho towel, sometimes referred to as a ‘towelling robe’ or ‘surf poncho’, is typically used during warmer seasons to dry off on the beach and stay covered as you change.
The lightweight and water-absorbent material means you can enjoy the good weather and stay dry as you change in and out of your swimwear or wetsuit.
What are changing robes?
What is often referred to as a weatherproof changing robe is typically designed like an oversized outdoor coat. The design allows you to discreetly change, dry, and warm up after being immersed in water, and to remain warm for extended periods afterwards.
Weatherproof changing robes have a wicking inner lining and a weather-resistant exterior to allow for wearing in all conditions.
It’s worth bearing in mind that terminology around these types of accessories can vary. Both towelling robes (aka ‘poncho towels’) and weatherproof robes are often simply referred to together as ‘changing robes’ or ‘outdoor changing robes’.
The term ‘dryrobe’ is also used frequently, although usually when talking about weatherproof robes.
How do poncho towels compare to weatherproof changing robes?
When searching for a changing robe or towel poncho, you may primarily want something to help you dry off in privacy, or to also protect you from the weather and keep you insulated. Understanding the benefits of changing robes is crucial to making an informed decision.
Keeping you warm and insulated
Whether you surf, swim, SUP or wear a wetsuit for diving, preserving body heat is crucial for protecting from muscle tears and overexertion.
Warmth and insulation are key benefits provided by weatherproof changing robes. The thick, thermal layers keep body heat contained between sessions.
Towelling robes also provide warmth, thanks to a layer of light but dense material. However, they are less effective at insulating the body due to the fact that the lower-half of the poncho is exposed to the elements.
Drying off out of the water
Both types are excellent choices for this purpose. Poncho towels are made up of a water-absorbent material that gets to work as you remove saturated gear. Weatherproof changing robes wick away moisture from wet clothing and skin while changing. The warm fleece lining then keeps the wearer warm.
Weatherproofing
Poncho towels generally lack weatherproof material. If you are on or in the water at a location where the weather can be unpredictable, as is often the case within the UK, it can be prudent to go with a weatherproof dry robe.
Wearing a changing robe
As weatherproof changing robes are designed to be outdoor coats, with a zip-up front, pockets, sleeves, and a hood, they can be worn before or after a session in the water, or for other outdoor activities.
The lack of sleeves can make wearing a poncho towel impractical beyond drying in privacy. Activities like checking your phone while wearing sleeveless garb can be tedious, which has an impact on general wearability.
Freedom to change anywhere
It’s not always easy to find a place to change when venturing outdoors. Fortunately, poncho towels and weatherproof changing robes are both great options for changing anywhere, anytime. Simply zip up your robe or sling on your towel poncho and you have your own private, portable dressing room.
Making a fashion statement
So long as you pick out a style that suits your tastes, you can wear your poncho towel anywhere. But with the lack of sleeves and pockets, you might want something more practical.
As weatherproof changing robes are designed like coats, they are increasingly being worn away from the water, and have become a ‘must have’ item among followers of fashion trends. Manufacturers have responded to this by making dry robes available in an array of styles and colours.
Stylish and practical changing robes from Two Bare Feet
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Two Bare Feet Classic Print Long Sleeve Weatherproof Changing Robe (Black/Charcoal)As low as £79.99 Regular Price £139.99 -
Two Bare Feet Adults Towelling Changing Robe (Aqua)As low as £22.99 Regular Price £29.99 -
Two Bare Feet Kids Weatherproof Changing Robe with Changing Mat (Black/Blue)As low as £69.99 Regular Price £129.99 -
Two Bare Feet Kids Towelling Changing Robe (Light Pink)As low as £17.99 Regular Price £24.99 -
Two Bare Feet Classic Print Long Sleeve Weatherproof Changing Robe (Navy/Teal)As low as £79.99 Regular Price £139.99
To maintain warmth and dryness in all weather, a weatherproof changing robe is best. With Two Bare Feet's range of changing robes for swimming and other water sports, you can find a style to fit your environment and your sensibilities.
Our weatherproof robes are designed with water resistant Oxford Nylon for all-round protection, Velcro fastening sleeves to keep out windchill, and a sherpa fleece lining to help you stay warm.
If you are looking for a summer accessory to help you dry off after fun at the beach, Two Bare Feet have some breathable options in the form of knee-length, short-sleeved towelling changing robes.
The microfibre interior will ensure you dry quickly, while the poncho-like design makes it easy to throw on or fold up and store, like a regular beach towel.
