As water sports and cold-water swimming become more and more popular in the UK (largely thanks to Wim Hof), ways to get warm and dry fast are increasingly in demand. Dryrobes are perfect for the job. But whilst there’s no doubt they are great, not everyone wants the same brand.
Is this why so many people are searching for Dryrobe alternatives?
Dryrobes – or more broadly, Waterproof Changing Robes – have absorbent material on the inside, that gets you dry fast whilst keeping you warm. And they are waterproof on the outside, shielding you from the elements, even in the harshest of conditions.
Dryrobe Features
To be able to compare Dryrobe alternatives, you first need to take a good look at the Dryrobe to see what is has to offer.
Typical Price: £160.00
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell fabric made from 100% recycled nylon
- Super-warm synthetic lambswool lining made from 100% recycled polyester
- Tailored, fitted sleeves with hook and loop fasteners at the wrist
- Treated with eco-friendly BIONIC-FINISH® ECO water-repellent technology
- Full length 2-way reversible YKK® zip
- Minimal sealed seam construction
- Deep, fleece-lined external zip pockets
- Huge ‘A4’ size internal, soft-lined ‘poacher’ pocket
- Internal waterproof zip entry pocket – ideal for phone/wallet
Dryrobe is one of the biggest brands of waterproof changing robes, and unless you are lucky enough to find a Dryrobe sale, they are also one of the most expensive waterproof changing robes out there. But there are many more on the market, with different features to suit different applications and needs.
What is the best Dryrobe Alternative?
After testing out over 30 different waterproof changing robes, here are our top picks for best Dryrobe alternative.
Seashell
Best Quality Dryrobe Alternative
This is an excellent premium changing robe from Seashell, and their new 3.0 version has made it even better than before. They’ve listened to their customer feedback and made several upgrades.
They have boosted the waterproof rating from 5,000mm to 10,000mm and made the outer lining a more durable material, coated with BIONICFINISH ®ECOwater-repellent technology. They have increased the GSM of the inner fabric for a cosier, softer inner fleece that efficiently wicks moisture. The fit has improved from the 2.0 version and they have introduced the Ocean Robe Black Edition with a chic black inner lining that doesn’t show up marks as much as the lighter version.
It is available at the same price as a Dryrobe, so does it match up on quality? The answer to that is a definite yes, in fact, we thought it was even better. We thought the Seashell looked really classy and you can tell it is a premium product. The embroidered details are beautifully done, and they have the branding just right, so not only will you be warm and dry, you’ll look amazing too. It really is a stunning garment.
Sometimes you get what you pay for, and in this case, that is certainly true. As a Dryrobe alternative it is perfect. It does everything the Dryrobe does, but we thought it was just a bit nicer to wear. The fit was perfect, even down to the deep, fleece-lined pockets being in just the right place for your hands, so it is very comfortable.
The Seashell Changing Robe has a huge A4-sized internal pocket to store your wet stuff in while you change, along with a waterproof, zip-entry internal pocket ideal for storing your phone and other valuables.
Whilst you won’t be saving money compared to a Dryrobe, you will stand out from the crowd by buying a different brand. And you’ll be supporting the environment by purchasing this robe as Seashell make them from 100% recycled materials.
If price is not a determining factor for you, or you don’t mind spending the money to get a decent quality changing robe, the Seashell is one of the best Dryrobe alternative products out there.
View our full Seashell Changing Robe review here.
Key Features
- 400gsm Sherpa Fleece Lining
- 10,000 mm waterproof rating
- Multiple inner pockets
- 2-way zipper
- Made from 100% Recycled Materials
Typical Price: £160.00
Wild Moose
Most Practical Dryrobe Alternative
Designed by Rachel Heley, a passionate wild swimmer, this robe is a testament to her dedication to keeping the cold at bay. On a chilly day, the Wild Moose Robe envelops you like a warm hug. Its super-thick Sherpa fleece lining not only feels really soft against the skin but also boasts incredible moisture-absorbing properties, ensuring you stay dry and warm. It wicks away the moisture so well that you can happily wear it after you’ve dried and changed without worrying about the water seeping back into your dry clothes.
There’s been no compromise on the quality of the materials. This robe is premium quality all the way. During our field test, the thick, waterproof outer material and taped seams formed an impenetrable shield against the elements. Rain and sea spray ran off the waterproof material rapidly, and we remained warm and cosy despite the conditions.
The robe’s spacious design accommodates movement without feeling cumbersome, and large, well-positioned arm holes mean it’s easy to pull your arms inside, making changing a breeze. It formed one of the best privacy cubicles out of all the robes we tested, with room in all the right places. We liked the fact the large internal pocket was made of fleece instead of waterproof material. It was handy for storing dry items ready to change into whilst still being comfortable and warm against the skin.
The zip pulls are made from vulcanised rubber and are easy to grip with cold hands. The zip-up outer pockets are lined with thick fleece and act as effective hand warmers after a cold swim. The drawstring hood is excellent for keeping the wind and rain off your face in harsh conditions. You can certainly tell this robe has been thoughtfully designed by someone who uses it every day and knows what’s required after swimming in cold water. It’s also made from recycled materials, making it an environmentally friendly purchase.
Overall, the Wild Moose Robe is one of our top recommendations for anyone looking for an alternative to Dryrobe.
Read our full review of the Wild Moose Robe here.
Key Features
- Hard-wearing waterproof outer shell
- Soft, thick sherpa fleece that warms and dries
- 2 zipped handwarmer pockets
- Drawstring hood
- Made from recycled materials
Typical Price: £130.00
Frostfire Moonwrap
Best Value Dryrobe Alternative
The Frostfire Moonwrap Changing Robe is a great value product. It doesn’t top the list for anything in particular, but for the price, it’s a fantastic purchase. If you’re looking for something top drawer, you might want to spend a little more and go for the Seashell. But given the price, the Moonwrap really delivers on quality, so you won’t be disappointed.
The soft, inner material is thick, comfortable and warming, made with Moonwrap’s high quality MoonNylon+ and Firefleece technology. We liked the 2-way zipper, which really helped when getting changed under the robe.
The Moonwrap is a great mid-range product, available for a lower price than it should be.
If you’re considering a Dryrobe alternative and like the look of the Moonwrap, take a look at our Moonwrap vs Dryrobe comparison.
Key Features
- Fleece-lined hood
- 2-way zipper
- Extra large, fleece-lined zippable external pockets
- Waterproof internal pocket
Typical Price: £79.99
Red Original Pro EVO
Warmest Dryrobe Alternative
Having the opportunity to experience the Red Original Pro Change Robe EVO firsthand was a joy, and I can confidently say that it surpasses expectations on all fronts.
The EVO is truly a shield of comfort, thanks to its remarkable waterproof and breathable properties. With an impressive 8k/3k waterproof rating, it ensures that you stay dry even in challenging conditions. The insulating nature of the robe, combined with its superior soft-touch fabrics, provides exceptional warmth without compromising on comfort. The deep-pile lining, gentle on the skin, creates an indulgent experience, allowing you to dry off and warm up extremely quickly.
One of the standout features of the Pro Change Robe EVO is its lightweight and tailored design. Unlike bulkier options, this robe won’t hold you back during your outdoor activities, and it’s nice and breathable, so a great robe to wear all year round. Additionally, its compact pack-down size makes it incredibly convenient for transport, fitting easily into a bag or backpack.
The EVO offers ample space for changing, especially with the stretch side panels, and what sets it apart is that its sizing is based on height rather than build. We found the suggested sizing to be one of the most accurate out there, which is a major plus.
Red’s attention to detail is evident in the design of the Pro Change Robe EVO. The bestselling teal robe, for example, features deep blue contrast trims and a soft grey liner, giving it a premium and stylish finish. It’s clear that Red has not only prioritised functionality but also aesthetics.
The improvements made to the EVO version of the robe are truly impressive. Additional pockets offer more storage options, while the enhanced sleeve construction ensures a better fit and freedom of movement. The longer length provides improved coverage, keeping you warm and protected. The sleek and subtle branding adds a touch of sophistication, and the adjustable hood allows for personalised comfort.
If you’re thinking about the Dryrobe vs Red Original, I think the Red Original takes the prize.
Key Features
- Super warm and absorbent fleece lining
- Plenty of waterproof pockets for storage
- Chunky velcro cuff adjusters
- Hidden stretch side panels
- 2-way zipper
Typical Price: £149.99
Wild & Free
Most Versatile Dryrobe Alternative
Whilst this changing robe from Wild & Free is up there when it comes to price, it’s definitely worth the extra investment because of its versatility. Out of all the Dryrobe alternative brands we tested, this one felt the most like it could also be worn as a general-use winter coat, even when sized for use as a changing robe. The shape is great and is a lot more flattering than some of the others, which makes it the most versatile on our list.
It’s also fairly lightweight and comfortable, and with relatively subtle branding compared to some, you won’t feel like you’re wearing a changing robe.
When it comes to features, you can’t go wrong with this product. It has an incredible 6 pockets, the most we’ve seen, so you can store all your valuables and still keep your hands nice and warm. You also get a free drawstring storage bag so you can pack it away easily. And a feature unique to this robe is its peaked hood – great for those sunny winter days or for keeping the rain off your face.
Thick sherpa fleece lining and high-quality zips make this one of our top picks.
Key Features
- 6 pockets, 4 external, 2 internal
- Unique peaked hood
- Flattering shape
- Drawstring storage bag included
- Soft, thick sherpa fleece that warms and dries
Typical Price: £139.95
Osprey
Best All-Rounder Dryrobe Alternative
If you’re a surfer, you’ve probably heard of Osprey. You may even own one of their wetsuits. Now they’ve made a waterproof changing robe, and it’s a great Dryrobe alternative. And 20% of the robe’s material is made from recycled bottles, great for eco-conscious shoppers. The Osprey is super waterproof, as you would expect, with one of the best hoods for keeping out the wind.
The price is exceptionally good for this product. And it’s a name you can trust, so you can buy with confidence.
We found the Osprey to be one of the most comfortable to wear for longer periods. In smaller sizes, we found that the Osprey was probably the best robe that could be used as a winter coat. The fit is better than most of the others we tried, and looks pretty smart. So if you’re not looking to use it as a changing robe, you could order a smaller size and wear it as a coat. It does come up large, with plenty of room to change inside, without feeling cumbersome to wear. The lining does a fantastic job of wicking away moisture and keeping you warm and dry.
If you’re toying with the idea of a Dryrobe vs Osprey, we’ve written a handy comparison of the two products here.
Key Features
- Sherpa Fleece Lining
- 2-way zipper
- Internal Phone Pocket
- Excellent waterproof material
- Windproof hood
Typical Price: £99.99
Looking for the best Kids Dryrobe alternative?
We think this one by Frostfire is perfect for kids and at a really good price. Check the latest price on Amazon here.
Ultra Dry Adventurer
Ultra Dry, a family-run company known for their excellent tow-float dry bags, have introduced the Ultra Dry Adventurer Changing Robe, a superb alternative to the Dryrobe. I had the opportunity to try it out before its launch, and it exceeded my expectations.
Its waterproof outer material keeps out rain and sea spray while remaining breathable. The cosy Sherpa fleece lining effectively wicks away moisture and provides exceptional warmth. The robe features practical fleece-lined external pockets, an internal waterproof phone pocket, and a spacious internal pocket for wet clothes.
The high-quality zips are easy to use, even with cold fingers, and the double zip closure allows for easy movement during changing. The robe’s stylish design, including embroidered details and colour-coded designs, adds a touch of elegance. It fits well, offering ample room for changing without being too baggy, making it versatile for various body types.
The Ultra Dry Adventurer Changing Robe is a fantastic choice for those seeking a reliable and cheaper alternative to the Dryrobe.
Read our full review of the Ultra Dry Adventurer Changing robe.
Key Features
- Top quality waterproof construction
- Waterproof internal zipped pocket for phone
- Oversized zips for ease, even with cold hands
- Soft, thick sherpa fleece that warms and dries
- Stylish embroidered details and colour coding
Typical Price: £130.00
Endex Elite
The Endex Elite was really up there in terms of quality out of all the changing robes we tested. It really is well-built. From heavy-duty zips and pulls to durable stitching and waterproof material, you can definitely feel the quality of this product. The price point is great compared to others of similar quality on the market, so it’s excellent value-for-money.
You also get a couple of neat accessories included. A waterproof phone case with lanyard, that will still allow you to use your touchscreen, even under water! Perfect for underwater photos and videos. And it saves you leaving valuables in the car while you’re in the water. You also get a carry bag made from the same waterproof material as the coat, which can also double up as a mat to stand on while you’re getting changed.
Endex give you a full 12-month warranty and are a great company to deal with, offering fantastic customer service. A superb Dryrobe alternative.
Key Features
- Top quality waterproof construction
- Waterproof internal zipped pocket for phone
- Oversized zips for ease, even with cold hands
- Soft, thick sherpa fleece that warms and dries
- Waterproof phone case and stuff bag included
Typical Price: £119.99
Winthome
If you’re looking for a less premium waterproof changing robe that will still keep you cosy and warm, the Winthome might well be the best Dryrobe alternative for you. Thanks to the plump polar fleece lining, the inside feels soft and incredibly warm, and it’s highly absorbent too, so you can get dry fast. It was one of the warmest out of all we tested. So if budget is an issue and a big factor for you is warmth, we recommend the Winthome.
It does well keeping the wind at bay too. The collar zips up nice and snug, and with the hood up you’ll have no trouble staying warm. It’s a big robe, perfect for changing in, with plenty of pockets for storage. And the overall quality was good, with a durable feel to it, so it should last.
Key Features
- Super warm and absorbent Polar fleece lining
- Plenty of waterproof pockets for storage
- Chunky velcro cuff adjusters
- Comes with carry bag
- 2-way zipper
Typical Price: £80.99
Gorilla Robe
If you want top quality but haven’t quite got the budget for some of the more expensive changing robes, the Gorilla Robe is great value for money. You still get a really well-made product with the Gorilla Robe, but it doesn’t cost the earth. And we mean that literally! All of their robes are made from an ECO Recycled Rip-stop Nylon fabric (from recycled bottles).
These are designed for changing under and are sized appropriately for that, so you don’t need to size up when you order. There’s plenty of room inside, and the Gorilla Robe comes with a host of handy features. The double two-way side zips make it so easy to get changed out of a costume or wetsuit after a swim whilst still maintaining privacy. Because they extend from the armpit to the ankle, you can have as much room as you like with them unzipped, and they can be adjusted just how you want them. And they have thoughtfully designed the robe with extra-large shoulder holes to make it easy to pull your arms inside.
The thick sherpa wool interior lining kept us really warm and dry, and the drawstring hood makes your face feel extra snug.
Overall, we felt the Gorilla Robe was an extremely good buy.
Check out our full review of the Gorilla Robe here.
Key Features
- Full-length double side zip design for more room
- Extra-large shoulder holes for easy changing
- Recycled ultra-durable waterproof outer material
- Soft, thick sherpa fleece that warms and dries
Typical Price: £94.95
Hut
We liked this premium changing robe from Hut. It is well made, unlike some of the others at this price point. Whilst it isn’t in our top 5, it is still a great Dryrobe alternative. It has similar features to the Dryrobe but at a much lower price.
The internal pockets were handy to put underwear and wet costumes in, and if you want to listen to headphones whilst wearing it, there is a special zip pocket for your phone with a headphone hole.
We did find that it dried surprisingly quickly compared to some other Dryrobe alternative products, which is a real bonus for regular wearers. The Hut is available in a range of sizes and colours too, which means you can get the privacy you need whilst changing in a style that suits you.
Key Features
- Sherpa Fleece Lining
- Multiple inner pockets
- 2-way zipper
- Phone pocket with headphone hole
Typical Price: £105.99
Optimum Drywrap
This is one of the best-priced on our list of Dryrobe alternative products. Whilst it isn’t the cheapest changing robe here, it is excellent value for money and comes a very close second to the Frostfire Moonwrap in terms of bang for your buck. It’s warm and cosy, with many of the features included in the more premium quality robes.
The manufacturing is still excellent, but it doesn’t quite match up quality-wise to the changing robes nearer the top of our list. However, it is one of the best-selling Dryrobe alternatives on Amazon, so they are definitely doing something right. For those after a mid-range alternative to Dryrobe, it is priced perfectly. We would still recommend the Moonwrap first, but it’s a close call.
Key Features
- Quick-dry warm fleece lining
- Mobile phone pocket with headphone hole
- 2-way zipper
- Fleece-lined external pockets with drawstrings
Typical Price: £84.99
Subby
We were really impressed with the Subby as a Dryrobe alternative. As with the Dryrobe, the Subby is extremely versatile and not only could it be used as a changing robe after swimming and water sports, it makes a great winter coat for watching outdoor sports, walking the dog, camping or even just the daily school run.
Thick sherpa fleece and heat-sealed seams will keep you nice and warm whether you’re changing on the beach or standing pitch side. And we found the waterproofing to be excellent on this robe.
What’s really great about the Subby is that it’s made from 100% recycled material, so this is another eco-friendly option.
Key Features
- Eco-friendly recycled material
- Multiple inner pockets
- 2-way zipper
- Heat-sealed seams
- Thick sherpa fleece lining
Typical Price: £99.99
White Water
If you’re looking for a stylish Dryrobe alternative, the White Water changing robes come in some great camo designs. It was definitely one of the coolest looking changing robes we tested. It comes in a range of other vibrant colours too, so if camo isn’t your thing you can still choose a style you love.
The inner lining of synthetic lambswool is super soft to the touch, so if you’re worried about the robe feeling itchy on the skin, you don’t need to with the White Water. It’s also very lightweight compared to the Dryrobe, but the White Water Pro robes still maintain decent manufacturing quality.
As with our other top Dryrobe alternatives, this one has multiple pockets inside and out, except that all of them on the White Water are zipped – great for valuables and things like keys that can easily get lost.
Key Features
- Highly absorbent artificial wool lining
- Zipped storage pockets
- 2-way zipper
- Lightweight & breathable
- Cool range of styles
Typical Price: £88.00
Sundried
We managed to find an amazing price on Amazon for the Sundried changing robe. On the Sundried website, this is £130, but they sell them on their Amazon store for just £91 – a great deal!
The Sundried is a generous fit, which makes it easy to change whilst wearing. The number of pockets on this changing robe is a plus too, with a couple of internals including a zip pocket for security.
If you’re into your early morning or late night swims when it’s a bit darker, this Dryrobe alternative has a nifty feature that most others don’t – reflective branding on the back that helps you be more visible when walking home or back to the car.
Key Features
- Highly absorbent 50/50 polyester/acrylic lining
- Multiple inner pockets
- 2-way zipper
- Lightweight & breathable
Typical Price: £91.00
Mountain Warehouse
This well-known outdoor clothing brand has its own Dryrobe alternative. If you’ve shopped at Mountain Warehouse before, you know the quality of their products. Their waterproof changing robe is no different, and if you’re a fan of their other gear, you won’t regret buying one.
As you would expect, the waterproofing is great, with a breathable material which allows moisture out but not in. It also has a special layer of thin material between the fabrics to make it fully windproof. It’s certainly comfortable to wear too, so you might find yourself wearing it to the shops or out walking the dog.
It doesn’t feature the pockets that others do, so if that’s important to you then go with another changing robe. But it’s a good option if you want a simple robe to change in and don’t need the bells and whistles. The zips feel chunky and robust, and it’s a decent product for the price. Overall, a great Dryrobe alternative.
Key Features
- Well-known brand
- Windproof layer
- Fleece lining
- Lightweight & breathable
Typical Price: £111.99
Aquatec
The Aquatec is a roomy changing robe, and there’s no mistaking what this was built to do. With a breathable waterproof outer shell that they’ve coined Fibre Dry Technology, it will keep you dry in all conditions. As a Dryrobe alternative, it’s a solid option at a much lower price.
If you’re looking for something that could be utilised for other activities, such as hiking, or to wear as a winter coat, this is probably not the one for you. But if you’re looking for a practical changing robe, this does the job very well. Moisture-wicking fleece lining keeps you dry and warm, chunky velcro cuffs help too, and deep fleece-lined pockets zip up to keep your valuables safe.
The stand-out feature for us was the oversized fit which really makes changing inside it a piece of cake. It’s large, cosy and practical. Certainly worth considering as a Dryrobe alternative to save you money.
Key Features
- Roomy oversized fit for changing
- Zipped pockets for valuables
- Quick drying, moisture wicking inner lining
- Breathable Fibre Dry Technology
Typical Price: £94.99
Fatstick Fatwrap
Another Dryrobe alternative for those who care about the environment. As Fatstick say, they refuse to add to the single-use plastic problem. And as makers of surfboards, they plant a tree for every board sold, so you can feel good about supporting them.
The Fatwrap comes with 2 deep external zipped pockets and a single mobile phone-sized internal zipped pocket, so no need to worry about valuables.
The sherpa fleece lining is quite thick on this robe, making it reasonably heavy and it feels nice and cosy to wear. A decent Dryrobe alternative.
Key Features
- Eco-friendly material
- ripped pockets for valuables
- 2-way zipper
- Free branded canvas bag
Typical Price: £99.95
What is a waterproof changing robe?
A waterproof changing robe is an oversized waterproof coat that allows enough room inside to change out of wet clothing, e.g. after swimming. It is waterproof on the outside to keep out the wind and rain, and fleece lined on the inside to absorb moisture and keep you warm. Dryrobe is a popular brand, but they are expensive, and many opt for a cheaper Dryrobe alternative.
What size waterproof changing robe should I order?
Most waterproof changing robes come oversized to allow enough room to get changed inside them. It is always best to refer to the manufacturer’s size guide to make sure you are ordering the correct size. Often, the correct size will depend on your intended use. If you plan to use the robe as more of a wet weather coat, you might want to order a smaller size, and perhaps a larger size if you want to use it as a changing robe.
What can I use my waterproof changing robe for?
Waterproof changing robes can be used any time you want to get warm and dry after being in the water. You can use them after cold-water swimming, sea swimming, surfing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, jet skiing, kite surfing and many other outdoor water sports for changing out of your wet clothes and getting warm and dry. You can also wear them as wet weather coats for hiking, dog walking and camping.
Are Dryrobe alternative products lower quality?
We found that many of the Dryrobe alternative waterproof changing robes we tried matched up to the quality of Dryrobe, even better in some cases. Dryrobe is the most well known brand, but the price means that people often look for a cheaper Dryrobe alternative.
