If you love hitting the beach for a swim or if you’re a watersports enthusiast, then you’re probably familiar with the hassle of having to change after you get out of the water and keeping warm. Not only do you need to find a spot secluded enough to shield your body from being seen, but it should also close by so you don’t have to walk too far from the group.
Luckily, surf ponchos offer the ideal solution for this issue, pretty much providing a portable changing room for you to slip into and out of your wetsuit without the risk of exposing your body.
In this article, we’re reviewing the top 5 surf poncho-changing robes on the market and sharing a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you find the best surf poncho-changing robe. Let’s get started!
Top 5 Surf Poncho Changing Robes
1. Parallaxx All Weather Surf Poncho Changing Robe
Let’s start off with the best first. Designed by a water sports enthusiast, the Parallax All-Weather Surf Poncho Changing Robe is extremely versatile when it comes to where you can use it. This poncho isn’t only ideal for surfing, but it’s also great for casual beach visits, all sorts of water sports, camping, boating, pools, and resorts.
One of the reasons behind the impressive performance of the Parallaxx surf poncho is its materials. Built to resist all weather conditions, the outer shell of the poncho is made out of nylon that’s wind and waterproof with a water beading finish.
As for the inner lining, the Parallaxx surf poncho changing robe is 100% cotton (350 GSM) on the inside to make sure you stay warm and cozy. It’s also soft to touch, so it shouldn’t irritate your body even if you have sensitive skin.
What’s more, the Parallaxx surf poncho changing robe is hooded and water absorbent, allowing it to double as a towel for drying your hair and body once you’re done with your favorite water sports for the day.
We love the thought that went into the sizing of the Parallaxx surf poncho changing robe, introducing both male and female fit. Unlike most brands on the market, this one offers a longer design for tall people and more fitted sizes for smaller people.
I highly recommend taking a look at Parallax’s website. They also have some other great products. Such as changing mats, rash tops, action toe socks, and other great accessories. Click here to find some great products.
Pros
- The nylon shell is waterproof and windproof
- The cotton lining is gentle on the skin
- Suitable for tall and small people
- Can be used in any weather
Cons
- None
2. Winthome Surf Poncho Changing Robe
The widely popular and affordable Winthome Surf Poncho Changing Robe gives you privacy to change out of your wetsuit while in public. Although it’s available in two sizes only, this robe can fit individuals up to 5’7″ to 6’1″ tall.
The Winthome Surf Poncho Changing Robe is made out of thick fabric, specifically 80% polyester and 20% polyamide. It’s highly absorbent so it can help you dry faster while keeping you nice and warm.
This design of this surf poncho is meant to make you feel as cozy and comfortable as possible. The large hood helps dry your hair, providing extra protection against the sun rays or cold winds.
The armholes are wide so you can easily slip in and out of the poncho. Also, there’s a slit in the fabric at the bottom of each side to let you walk or run easier. The loose sleeves, however, may compromise the poncho’s performance when it comes to weather resistance.
As for the cleaning aspect, the Winthome Surf Poncho Changing Robe is quick-drying and machine washable, so it should be a piece of cake.
Pros
- Made of polyester and polyamide
- Easy to put on and take off
- Dries quickly
- Budget-friendly price
Cons
- Not completely weatherproof
- The material may feel a bit sticky
3. Ho Stevie Surf Poncho Wetsuit Changing Robe
If you’re looking for an easy way to change out of your wetsuit without accidentally exposing yourself to the world, then you should consider the Wetsuit Changing Poncho from Ho Stevie. This product was specifically designed to give you privacy in public so you can change clothes without worry.
This surf poncho changing rove comes sleeveless with a full hood. It’s made with low lint so you won’t feel too fuzzy after changing or drying or changing.
The Ho Stevie surf poncho is available in two versions: one made of 100% cotton material and the other made using plush microfiber that’ll keep you perfectly warm and comfy. It’ll also dry you off quickly after your water activities.
The design of this wetsuit changing robe is unisex, allowing both men and women to use it freely. Unlike most surf ponchos that fall short in the length department, Ho Stevie made sure that their ponchos have some extra length with 47 inches of fabric.
Pros
- The plush microfiber keeps you warm
- Long enough for tall individuals
- Low lint material
- Unisex design
Cons
- The microfiber can feel smudgy
- Prone to acquiring holes
4. Open Road Goods Surf Poncho Changing Robe
For those searching for a premium quality surf poncho changing robe to survive years of use, the Open Road Goods Swim Parka Changing Poncho guarantees a hassle-free, private changing experience while keeping you warm and dry. You can use it to change in or out of your wetsuit or other water outfits for swimming, surfing, and diving.
The construction of the Swim Parka Changing Poncho features heavyweight and durable fabric material. The weave is called Cotton Woven Jacquard, which doesn’t have that smudgy feeling of microfiber that many competitors use to make their changing robes.
The Open Road Good Surf Changing Poncho provides an ergonomic fit that works just as fine whether you’re the tallest or the smallest among the group. It comes complete with a wide head opening and large armholes that are roomy enough to allow for easy wear without leaving your body exposed.
The longer-than-average fabric bottom helps keep your legs covered for extra warmth and privacy. Topped off with a few extra goodies, the Open Road Good Surf Poncho Changing Robe features a fleece-lined hood and a zippered front pocket.
What’s more, one purchase of this changing poncho is equivalent to one donation at SEE Turtles, which is a registered non-profit organization that aims to save baby sea turtles.
Pros
- Durable material
- Made of 100% Cotton-Woven Jacquard
- Lined with fleece for extra warmth
- Has a zippered front pocket
Cons
- Not highly absorbent
- Tends to shed easily
5. Surf Poncho Changing Towel Robe by Cor Surf
A surf poncho changing robe is a must-have summer item for anyone planning to hit the beach, pool, or do any sort of water sport. This one from Cor Surf is a beach towel and changing robe rolled into one, so it’ll free up some room in your backpack for some extra snacks!
As one of the best surf towels on our list, it’s available in 3 sizes to accommodate both children and adults. It also has a roomy design with enough space to let you easily change in and out of your clothes while in public.
The Cor Surf changing poncho is made of a super absorbent microfiber fabric that’s quick-drying and cozy, quickly drying you off while keeping you warm. Additionally, the fabric is fade-resistant to maintain its vibrant colors for a long period.
Designed to offer maximum convenience, this surf poncho changing robe features a large hood and a handy front pocket that’ll keep your hands warm and your personal belongings safe. You can get it in grey, blue, and navy or choose between a tribal and sarape pattern.
The Surf Poncho Towel is lightweight and easy to wash. It’s very practical and requires no special care.
Pros
- Fade-resistant fabric
- Made of quick-drying microfiber
- Has a front pocket
- Available in 3 sizes
Cons
- Not very soft
- Not weather resistant
What is a Surf Poncho Changing Robe?
A surf poncho changing robe is what you get when you blend together a towel, a clothing article, and a changing room. To put it simply, it’s a wearable towel with a hood attached.
Surf poncho changing robes provide a convenient way for people to change their clothes without exposing their bodies in public, be it at a beach, resort, or pool.
A lot of surfers, swimmers, and other water sports enthusiasts use these changing robes to change in and out of their wetsuits in public while drying themselves off when they get out of the water and keeping warm.
Changing ponchos are often made from the same materials as regular towels, but they have additional hoods and armholes. Typically, they’ll have a loose fit to ensure maximum comfort as you move, walk, or run.
You can wear a surf poncho changing robe over your clothes while you change or wear it as an extra layer of clothing to keep you warm when you’re dry.
These poncho changing robes are ideal for anyone planning a vacation where getting wet in windy or cold conditions is a possibility. They can also be very convenient to wear in the car during the drive back from the beach.
How to Choose the Best Surf Poncho Changing Robe
When shopping for the best surf poncho changing robe, there are several factors you need to first consider before making a purchase. As such, we decided to put together a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you figure out which product is better suited to your needs and budget.
Here are the most important features you should keep in mind:
Material
When it comes to choosing the best surf poncho changing robe, your top priority should be checking its material. For this feature, you want to draw upon your years of experience with regular towels to find out what your preferences are.
For example, are you more concerned about the softness of your towel’s material? Or do you care more about the durability and weight of your towels? Also, you need to determine if you want the most absorbent material or one that has better wearability and endurance.
Microfiber is known for its quick-drying property, but it tends to feel smudgy against the skin. Cotton is very warm and soft to touch, but it’s not waterproof.
If you want a poncho with a weather-resistant shell such as nylon, or a warm lining such as fleece, then you need to be prepared to pay more and carry heavier when not in use. In our list, we made sure to include options utilizing the best materials in the business.
Size
The main purpose of a poncho changing robe is for you to change into and out of clothes without being exposed, so it makes sense for the sizing to be large and roomy enough for you to do this comfortably. Otherwise, you’ll get seriously frustrated trying to change if your changing poncho is too small.
Still, you should check the size of your surf poncho changing robe to make sure it has a suitable length and width to accommodate your height and build.
Weight
Another aspect you should look at is the weight of the changing robe since it’ll factor into the overall portability of your gear.
As you can expect, the wetter the poncho is, the heavier it’ll be when you carry it around after using it. The weight of your poncho is also directly affected by the size you end up choosing.
If you’re heading to the beach, chances are you want something lightweight and compact so you can easily carry it around. In this case, most backpackers will opt for microfiber material since it’s lightweight and a breeze to carry and pack.
However, if you’re going to a place where temperatures are colder, then you’re probably better using a thicker -and consequently, heavier- towel to keep you warm.
Waterproof
If your surf poncho changing robe is equipped with a hood, then it can protect you from a variety of weather conditions. But the level of protection mostly depends on the materials used in manufacturing the poncho.
If you opt for something with a nylon shell, then the poncho will keep you dry in the rain. You can even use your waterproof poncho to build a shelter on camping trips.
Water Absorption
Finally, you should also consider the water absorption capability of your surf poncho changing robe since it also serves as a towel.
For this reason, you want to choose a material that’s highly absorbent and fast-drying to dry you off quickly and efficiently. After all, you don’t want to walk around wearing a wet towel.
Surf Poncho Changing Robe – FAQs
What are the benefits of wearing a surf poncho changing robe?
Wearing a surf poncho changing robes comes with several benefits, especially if you’re a surfer or a watersports enthusiast. Resorting to tying a towel around your waist as you change your clothes may work out, but the risk of exposure is pretty high, considering how flimsy knots can be.
However, a surf poncho changing towel won’t only shield you from weather elements, but it’ll also protect you from prying eyes when in public. As a life-changing watersports gear, a surf poncho lets you use both hands to change in and out of your wetsuit with decent privacy.4
What size should I buy for my surf poncho changing robe?
Although finding the right size for any clothing item is essential, you don’t have to worry too much about getting your surf poncho changing robe in the perfect fit since these things are meant to be oversized.
The extra room allows you to easily change into and out of your wetsuit without getting stuck inside. It also makes it possible for you to change underneath the poncho without exposing your body parts.
Still, surf ponchos are available in different sizes for small, medium, and large frames. Ideally, you need a poncho that’s not too short, too big, or too small.
Are surf ponchos useful?
In addition to providing you with privacy so you can change into and out of your swimwear outfit while in public, surf ponchos offer several other uses.
They provide maximum convenience for changing into and out your wetsuit, paired with a new level of comfort after getting out of the water.
Also, if you’re somewhere with freezing water and cold winds, returning to the shore is far from being a pleasant experience since you need to endure the harsh wind blowing at your wet body. A surf poncho can protect you from such a scenario.
Not to mention, it also helps you avoid catching a cold after a post-surf activity.
Wrap Up
Choosing the best surf poncho changing robe can be a tricky task, this is why we included only the top-performing options on the market to make sure you end up with a great deal no matter what.
That being said, we recommend the Parallaxx All Weather Surf Poncho Changing Robe as today’s winner thanks to its all-weather resistant nylon shell, soft cotton lining, and extra-long design.
