change of robes Pretty self-explanatory. They’re designed to make it easy to change in and out of your swim or watersports gear while at the beach, camping, or in the parking lot. With ultra-soft linings, waterproof exteriors, and oversized designs for unnoticed change, they can keep you warm, dry, and protect you from the elements. They make a lot of sense, both in terms of style and comfort, when you’re out in the open water or wilderness swimming, participating in a triathlon, or surfing/paddling/kayaking. And if you’re swimming in cool conditions, drying off and covering yourself can help you warm up gradually and avoid the “after-drop” drop in core body temperature when you get out of the water.
To test these shifting robes, Wired plunged into the sea on a cold winter’s day. We also solicited feedback from a group of open water swimmers of varying age, size, and shape to find out how well changing robes protect all of us after a swim. We put our changing robes on immediately after we get out of the water and rate them on design, material, size, color choice, heat retention, and overall ability to keep us dry, warm, and comfortable.
Check out WIRED’s outdoor guides, including the best tents, best electric bikes, best fitness trackers and watches, and best travel mugs.
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