Changing Robes vs. The Changing Tube: 3 Reasons to Switch

You get out of the water, and the cold is already starting to affect your hands and coordination. All you want to do is get changed quickly and enjoy that familiar post-swim euphoria.

Sound familiar?

If you have ever tried to change in those conditions, you will know how quickly things can unravel. Cold fingers, wind, a public setting, and that rushed feeling of needing to get dry fast. Before you know it, what should be the calm end to a swim becomes stressful and uncomfortable.

Most people think that a Changing Robe is The Way to get changed after swimming, but we're going to show you something different. Something that a lot of our customers frequently describe as 'game changing' and there are 3 simple reasons why.

We hear time and time again from our Changing Tube community...

Victoria C.
“This changing tube is a game changer. I get changed in half the time compared to using my dry robe or towelling poncho. Also no worry of accidentally flashing someone.”

Lucy M.
“The changing tube has been an absolute game changer for me. I was really struggling using a changing robe and this has been a dream. I can get out of the water and dry and changed in no time now.”

Hilary S.
“I absolutely love my Warmcor Changing Tube. I find it much easier than a towelling changing robe and it is warm and cosy. I get dressed in less time and it takes up less space in my bag. I saw them at the Great North Swim and kept telling myself I did not need one. I was wrong.”

When we created the Changing Tube, we were working to solve three common problem areas that swimmers and dippers told us they struggled with when changing outdoors, often in public places.

1. Modesty. Changing without feeling exposed

For many swimmers, particularly women, getting changed outdoors can be the least enjoyable part of open water swimming. We have all been there. Fumbling with a towel that threatens to slip at the worst possible moment, or hoping the local dog walker does not appear just as you are negotiating your bra, often stopping to ask the classic question, “Is it cold?”

A traditional changing robe does offer coverage, but can you actually see what you are doing without unzipping and risking a towel like collapse? More than once, I have seen swimmers unzip only for the robe to drop straight to the ground. Not ideal.

The Changing Tube covers you from your torso down to above the knee, without drowning you in fabric. The stretchy fleece and drawstring fastening give you freedom to move it around your body as you change. No sleeves, no fuss, and no accidental exposure. Your modesty stays intact and you can focus on getting warm.

2. Speed. Because getting dressed quickly matters

Every open water swimmer knows that once you are out of the water, the clock is ticking. You are still cooling down, and there is a relatively short window before afterdrop becomes more noticeable. That is why the advice to get dressed quickly is so often repeated.

For a deeper explanation of afterdrop and hypothermia risks, and how to recognise them, you can read our What Is Hypothermia? blog.

Being able to get changed quickly with a Changing Robe is where I have personally found that they can fall short. Sleeves, zips and heavy fabric can turn a simple change into an awkward wrestling match. When your hands are cold, even finding the right hole can be surprisingly difficult.

The Changing Tube lets you see exactly what you are doing. There are no sleeves or armholes to navigate. You can pull it on, change efficiently, and start layering over the top straight away for an instant boost of warmth. If you need to free up your top half, you simply pull it down.

More than once, I have been wrapped up with a hot drink in hand while others are still battling with sleeves. When it is cold, that difference really matters.

3. Warmth. Supporting that post-swim glow

Ultimately, post swim changing is about retaining your core warmth. A changing robe can be a great outer layer once you are fully dressed, but if it is already damp inside from changing under it, it is not doing you many favours.

The Changing Tube is made from soft, stretchy polyester fleece. It is not a towel, but a changing aid designed to help wick away remaining moisture while you layer up with ease.

Once you have patted off excess water, remove your arms from your costume, put the Changing Tube over your head, and as you pull it down over your torso, take your costume with you. Cold costume off, cosy fleece on.

In winter, many swimmers layer up straight over their Changing Tube and forget they are even wearing it because it does not weigh down the shoulders or restrict movement. Some keep it on as a skirt over trousers to warm cold legs. It is surprisingly versatile.

So, which will you choose?

A traditional changing robe still has its place. If you want a coat to stand around in and protect you from the elements, it is a good option.

The Changing Tube was designed specifically for that transition period between wet, to warm and dry, without fuss and faff. It is lightweight, easy to pack, and created with modesty, speed and warmth in mind.

Our Changing Tubes are made in the UK in Manchester, designed by us, based on our own experiences of changing after cold water swims.

If you are wondering whether it is for you, have a scroll through the reviews. They are written by swimmers and dippers who have been exactly where you are.

Post swim comfort really does matter. And sometimes it is the small changes that make the biggest difference.