A change coat, commonly known as a changing robe or a branded Dryrobe, is an oversized, often waterproof and fleece-lined garment designed primarily to provide warmth, privacy, and protection from the elements. It is an essential item for individuals who need to change clothes outdoors or desire to stay warm and comfortable before and after various activities.
What Makes a Change Coat Unique?
Change coats are specifically engineered for practicality and comfort in outdoor settings. They are distinct from regular coats due to their generous sizing and specialized materials, which facilitate easy changing underneath while offering insulation.
Key features typically include:
- Oversized Design: Allows enough room for the wearer to comfortably pull arms inside and change clothes discreetly without exposure.
- Waterproof Outer Shell: Provides robust protection against rain, wind, and splashes, keeping the wearer dry.
- Warm Inner Lining: Often made from synthetic lamb's wool or fleece, this lining wicks away moisture from the body, dries quickly, and traps heat effectively.
- Large Hood: Offers additional warmth and protection for the head and hair, especially useful after water activities.
- Two-Way Zipper: Enables easy opening from both the top and bottom, which is convenient for changing or sitting down.
- Spacious Pockets: Typically include internal and external pockets for essentials like phones, keys, and snacks.
Who Benefits from a Change Coat?
Change coats are versatile garments treasured by a wide array of outdoor enthusiasts and individuals who frequently engage in activities that require changing or prolonged exposure to the elements.
- Water Sports Enthusiasts: Ideal for swimmers, surfers, paddleboarders, wild swimmers, triathletes, and open-water sports participants, offering warmth and privacy directly after exiting the water.
- Dog Walkers: Provides a warm, weather-resistant layer for long walks in various conditions.
- Campers and Van Lifers: Perfect for slipping on to and from campsite facilities, providing modesty and warmth during transitions.
- Outdoor Event Spectators: Offers comfort and protection when watching sports or outdoor events in unpredictable weather.
- Athletes: Used by runners, cyclists, and other athletes for warming up before or cooling down after training and competitions.
Why Choose a Change Coat? Benefits and Practicality
The primary appeal of a change coat lies in its ability to combine multiple functions into one practical garment.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Privacy for Changing | Its loose, voluminous fit allows users to change clothes underneath without being exposed. |
| Instant Warmth | The thick, often fleece lining provides immediate insulation, crucial after being in cold water or air. |
| Weather Protection | The waterproof and windproof outer layer shields against rain, sleet, and biting winds. |
| Convenience | Eliminates the need for towels or struggling with small changing spaces, allowing for hands-free changing. |
| Versatility | Doubles as a casual coat, a warming layer for breaks, or a comfortable robe around camp. |
For instance, after a bracing wild swim in chilly waters, a change coat allows you to quickly slip out of your wet swimwear and into dry clothes in public, all while staying warm and protected from the wind. Similarly, for campers, it's the perfect garment for a quick dash to the toilet block in the early morning without fully dressing.
Choosing and Caring for Your Change Coat
When selecting a change coat, consider the following:
- Material Quality: Look for durable waterproof outer fabrics and soft, quick-drying inner linings.
- Size: Opt for a size that provides ample room for changing, but not so large that it becomes cumbersome. Most brands offer a generous fit.
- Features: Evaluate zipper quality, pocket types (internal wet pocket vs. external), and hood adjustability.
- Brand vs. Generic: While brands like Dryrobe are popular and well-regarded, many other companies offer high-quality alternatives that may be more budget-friendly.
To ensure the longevity of your change coat, follow the manufacturer's care instructions, which typically recommend gentle washing and air drying to preserve the waterproof coating and inner lining.
