Changing Robe Brands: Troggs Ultimate Guide

A waterproof changing robe is an essential bit of kit in our opinion especially if you are outdoors on the North Coast. Outdoor Robes provide shelter from the elements and privacy when changing after time in the water.  Robes are also useful in broader settings for festival goers, campers, harsh-weather walkers, dog-owners, coaches or spectators at outdoor sports matches.

At Troggs Surf Shop we stock weatherproof changing robes and towelling ponchos from leading brands. Below is our guide to help you select the right robe for you. 

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A ROBE 

1. Material: Water Absorption vs. Weather Protection 

• Towelling: Soft cotton or microfibre ponchos are useful for changing in summer temperatures or indoors after being in the ocean or pool. 
• Weatherproof Shells & Fleece lining: For cold and harsh outdoor conditions outer layers with high waterproof ratings (5,000mm to 20,000mm), taped seams and fleece linings are needed - these features help block torrential rain and onshore winds, and retain core body heat. 

2. Sizing: Fit, Length & Space

• Oversized Fit: A robe specialised for changing is intentionally cut wide with extra drop-shoulders to provide enough space to pull arms in to change out of swimming gear. Some brands offer a fitted robe which has the technology and build-quality of a dry robe but presents more like an everyday coat. 
• Full-Length Protection: All robes are long fitting to provide enough coverage for changing. Further, waterproof robes are more effective when full-length allowing run-off to hit the floor than collect on clothing. 
• We stock both Adult & Junior robes. Every brand is different in their sizing, some operate on a one-size basis, others offer a range from XS to XL, and our kids robes go by age (4-9 and 8-13 years). Brand specific size charts are available and usually prioritise height. 

3. Technical Features

• Two-Way Heavy-Duty Zips: Good for unzipping from the bottom up to give your legs room to change while keeping your torso covered.
• Deep Internal Pockets: Waterproof zip pockets for your phone, keys, and wallet. Soft fleece-lined pockets are particularly good for warming your hands. Some models have a hot water bottle pocket. 

 

 

THE OUTDOOR / CHANGING ROBE BRAND BREAKDOWN 

The below tables will introduce each robe brand we stock outlining brand name, model, fit, technology, and ideal user.

 

Saltrock Four Seasons Robe. 

3k waterproof shell with critical taped seams. Oversized Boxy Fit.

Dual lining. Borg fleece torso & microfibre fleece sleeves.

Good value entry-level product for those on a budget e.g. families, casual beachgoers and ocean-users.

 

 

White Water Hard Shell Robe.

10k+ waterproof SWB shell backed by TPU membrane + DWR. Generous cut.

300gsm recycled sherpa high-loft fleece.

Winter conditions and heavy-use.

 

White Water Softshell Robe.

8k waterproof & 3k breathable stretch outer. Moves without stiff outer rustle. Flexible with high-stretch woven shell.

Low-profile warm microfleece.

Spring/Autumn, windy days, active outdoor sport use.

 

Red Paddle Co. Pro Change Robe.

15k waterproof & 8k breathable shell with PFC-free DWR. Oversized changing cut, wide chest, dropped shoulders.

Hydro phobic deep-pile fur fleece torso & sleeves.

Max warmth with minimal bulk fast-dry fur lining and stretch side panels for easy changing.

Year-round cold-water surfers & open-water swimmers needing full weather protection to change.

 

Red Paddle Co. Slimline Parka.

15k waterproof & 8k breathable shell with PFC-free DWR. Tailored active fit, contoured profile, less changing volume.

Deep-pile sherpa fleece lining.

Sleek, low-profile aesthetic without bulk or excess fabric.

Year-round active outdoor adventurers, dog walkers, event sidelines, everyday winter parka. Not designed for undercover changing.

 

Red Paddle Co. Quick-Dry Towelling Poncho.

Compact hooded poncho, relaxed fit.

100% absorbent cotton terry.

Unlined single layer fabric.

Summer conditions, warm-water beach days, poolside changing, and holiday travel.

 

 

Get Fitted at Troggs Portrush

Not sure what robe to go for or stuck between sizes? Pop into our Main Store on Portrush Main Street to try on our full range of robes, changing ponchos and waterproofs. You can also speak with our team over the phone or online if you have any questions or queries.