dryrobe vs Charlie McLeod vs Red vs SmocSmoc

There are plenty of changing robes on the market but I thought I’d take a look at these 4: dryrobe, Charlie McLeod, Red, SmocSmoc. Here I try them all for size, look at their individual features and check whether they will fit in my Zone 3 safety buoy tow float and if it can be closed.
For clarity, I own the dryrobe, borrowed the Red from a friend, smocsmoc sent me one to test and return and Charlie McLeod sent me one to test and keep afterwards.
Here is a link to kit used in this video, via my Amazon Influencer page, through which I earn commission (which helps to fund my channel): www.amazon.co....
Changing Robes in this video:
Charlie McLeod Sports Cloak amzn.to/2Qg3um0
dryrobe Advance amzn.to/2RcQFcn
Red Paddle Co Pro Change Jacket amzn.to/3t4xr72
SmocSmoc Changing Robe www.smocsmoc.co.uk
Other kit used in this video:
Aqua Sphere Seal 2.0 swimming mask
C-Skins Legend 3.0 neoprene gloves
Zone3 Swim Safety Buoy: tidd.ly/5f20a37f
Speedo swimsuit tidd.ly/460ff02c
Zoggs aqua plugs tidd.ly/5a2cbe6c
Outdoor Swimming Society Classic Red swim hat www.outdoorswi...
Filmed on a GoPro HERO7 Black, edited using LumaFusion 2.1 on iPad Pro 11inch
Here's a video I made comparing some eco-friendly changing robes: smoc smoc vs Fourth Element vs Rapanui: • smoc smoc vs fourth el...
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[@claireclark4939]

I have a smocsmoc (with a full zip) and adore it. Such a good choice. I feel the bamboo is much more absorbent and actually dries me compared to a polyester fleece

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It felt nice on. Love that it compacts down so well too. 😜🏊‍♀️

[@bubblewrappd]

Thank you both for helping me make my decision on my present from Santa 🎅 😁 Smoc Smoc it is!!

[@fullstopnextchapter]

I have a Lomo one which is lovely and snuggly. I think we are of a similar size and I struggle for space when getting changed. It also has short, short arms. I have been eying up the Smoc Smoc ones for a while now. I'm still impressed with myself for still getting in the water at the moment. 🥰

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It is surprising when you look back and think that maybe at the start of Oct well that’s getting chilly. But here we are now, still getting in! Thanks for watching and keep 🏊‍♀️ x

[@johngale7306]

Thanks for the great review. I have had a DryRobe for a number of years. Started with a short sleeve and traded it for a long sleeve - for me the long sleeve is the way to go. The DryRobe has been great but it is bulky to pack when traveling to events. It makes winter swimming here in northern New England much easier. It lives in the boot of my car from November through April. Thanks for the reviews.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Long sleeves are the way forward at this time of year but I really like my Decathlon towelling one for the summer instead of a towel as it fits in my towfloat

[@jennifercash1093]

just bought a smocsmoc after watching this a few months ago - really helpful in decision making and the smocsmoc is lovely!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Aw, I'm pleased you're happy with your choice. They are nice and snuggly, aren't they! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🏊😄

[@tracyhaskell6799]

Thank you so much for your video comparisons. They were extremely helpful in making my decision of which robe to purchase. After two days of pondering, I finally decided on a Smoc Smoc… now I can’t wait for it to arrive!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

You’ll love it. Which colour way did you plump for? 🏊‍♀️😀

[@davebarlow8976]

Great video! I have a Dryrobe short sleeve and a Swimzi XK. I have to say the Swimzi is amazingly warm and robust, more robust than the Dryrobe. Always Swmzi for winter swimming for me!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching Dave 🏊‍♀️😀 I have yet to get my mitts on a Swimzi XK maybe one for the future 😀

[@charlieemma22]

I always thought the inner pocket in the dry robe was for a hot water bottle - it fits!!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Could well be, if the cat fits... 🏊😃

[@sarahknell8494]

It's perfect for a hot water bottle and your socks and underwear if you're bothering. For me toasty socks are perfect.

[@DaniStarEngland]

I've had my dry robe now for 6 years. The inside pocket for underwear is essential

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

If I wore underwear afterwards, I'm sure I'd agree 🏊😃

[@ColemanUK2008]

Hi Rach, great vid.... but... i've got that Dryrobe and the same Zone 3 tow float and it can fit in (... with a decathlon quick dry towel and flip-flops on top). But its a bit fiddly - there is a specific technique. You need to put the robe in hood first with the arms pointing up. You then need to literally shove your whole arm into the bag to make sure that the bottom curved part is full. Then the rest goes in okay with a bit of shoving. Clearly nowhere near as easy as the others and i do often spend a few minutes huffing and quietly swearing to myself whilst doing it.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

+Alan Edmondson that is brilliant news, the DryRobe was my own one. I’ll have another go. Admittedly it wasn’t a very scientific method.

[@leoncoates8414]

Really found this video helpful. I do a lot of kayaking and paddle boarding (not brave enough to try wild swimming yet) and have been interested in getting a changing robe for a while now. Thank you for the tips and advice 😊

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thank you for watching Leon. I’m pleased it was useful. It certainly isn’t an exhaustive test as there are lots out there but they were 4 good ones I could get my little mitts on. See you on/in the water 😀

[@philjenkins8862]

I own a DryRobe, but quite like the description of the smoc smoc. However, I hate the fact that they all have so much branding on them. Looked like a lovely day on Moomin beach 😀

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It was belting down there this weekend. Even met some more swimmers.

[@hookedonwood5830]

First season this year.! Got the RED without much research - long sleeves - and love it. Perfect to get instant protection for the wind and space to get the wet pants off without getting exposed to the elements. I guess for my purpose all of the 4 would do the trick - just getting the right size is important - but still really like to get into the RED after (still short) a trip in the water.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

They’re all great changing robes and I’d use any of them. It feels so comforting to be instantly out of the wind doesn’t it. It feels like a magic cloak! 🏊‍♀️😀

[@watersportstraining]

Speed changing challenge in the robes next pls? For those super cold days where you just want to be dressed again..

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching. I have a little idea up my short or long sleeve for something like that..

[@GeorginaMckimm]

Hey Rach, thanks for the info in this video, really useful 👌🏼

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching 🏊‍♀️😀

[@chateau6528]

Thank you so much for this very informative video. I need a robe and this has been so enlightening. I fancy making one actually and my husband has a pure wool smock he uses for country pursuits so that would be my pattern. So similar to smoc smoc. Many thanks again.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I think that’s a great idea. I keep meaning to make one and record a video of my efforts. I’m on the look out for something to upcycle. 🏊‍♀️😀

[@theeggtimertictic1136]

I want to try make one too ... I'm sure it would be a fraction of the price and it doesn't have to be perfect !

[@sarahogilvie3912]

Thank you for this! So useful and so glad I watched before buying one 💪🏼

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad it was helpful! Have you taken the plunge, or do you need to watch this video too to add a couple more into the mix? Eco changing robe comparison: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pGimXpZnpZl0gK8

[@sarahogilvie3912]

@@EverydayAthleteRach Hiya! In the end I found an amazing one called Moonrobe by Frostfire. Yes we've been swimming loads in the rivers :)

[@norahnoel1830]

I have a Smocsmoc, bought it as eco friendly but not as warm as other robes. Fine for fair weather swimming.

[@catherinebrown2657]

I have a red Charlie Mcleod going into its second winter - love it!!!! Got from Social Enterprise Seabirds Ltd so win win

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It's great when you find a product you love which lasts well :)

[@danielyoung1182]

Rach, thanks for all your effort on your videos. I've learnt a shed load and your advice was definitely worth the watch. So, from me....THANK YOU.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

daniel young thanks for watching. I really appreciate your lovely comments 🏊‍♀️😀

[@danielyoung1182]

Everyday Athlete Rach if it wasn't for the hard work, patience and dedication of people like you, most of us would be ripped off or left unhappy. I've watched a few of your videos and I'd just like to say that I find them clear, informative and above all, interesting. I'm grateful for the time you took to share your experience and knowledge on easy fixes or the best of clothing items. The robe video was brilliant. MASSIVE THANKS.

[@Alex-gu5ei]

Really enjoyed that, and it helped me decide

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching, I’m pleased not helped 🏊‍♀️😀

[@carrieonrunning9129]

What a great review. I'm still undecided though. I have my eye on a North Core because is has a great feature of being able to zip out the inner fleece and use it as a towelling robe in the summer - and, in turn, use just the waterproof outer if you need to pack really light. Anyway, as I said, great video... I'll subscribe :)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching and for your kind words. The video is certainly not an exhaustive comparison. I like the sound of the multi-functional North Core that you describe. I'll keep my eye out for fellow swimmers using one. Thanks for subscribing too :)

[@ideosound]

I bought the northcore version that unzips into two pieces. Great idea, bad design. After a few weeks, holes appeared in the outer coat near the back of hood where the weight of the whole robe pulls on stress points. Returned since I felt that was a major design flaw. Was wanting a smocsmoc but got offered a dryrobe for cheap so did that.

[@omdraws7325]

Thanks Rach. Helpful review ✌️🌅🌊🙋🏼‍♂️

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

My pleasure 😊 Glad it was helpful!

[@marycharlebois6627]

We are heading into Autumn 2020 and I just recently “dove into” (yes, pun intended) outdoor wild swimming this past summer. All I currently own is basic pool gear... a swimsuit, ear plugs, and goggles. I hope to make a go of swimming in the lakes and rivers here in the Pacific Northwest (BC, 🇨🇦) for another month or two. During Nov-April every body of fresh water will be frozen solid, so no winter swimming for me. Air temps will range between -10 and -40 (Celsius). That said, over the winter I intend to purchase a few items so I will be prepared for Spring swimming. This review was super helpful... one of my first purchases will be one of these insulated changing robes. Thanks for all the time, effort, and attention to detail that you put into your videos and your content... I am loving it, and learning a lot!! Much appreciated!! PS - I love seeing all the interesting beaches and coastal swimming areas in your videos. 🏊‍♀️💦🍁🌿

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Mary, great dedication working through the videos. I try to vary the locations for the interest of those from fy=urther away. It's always fun trying to add some variety. A changing robe is a great piece of kit for the cooler months. Hope it doesn't ice over too soon and you can eek a little more swimming tihs autumn 🏊🍁🍁😀

[@ritakd7706]

Hi, new to wild swimming and not sure how to choose from them all! Love the videos and wondered if you'd tried the Passenger Escapism Sherratt Lined Robe and if so how it compares with the others, as a company it's got great Eco credentials which attracted me to it? ×

[@sunnyimpressions]

Hi Rach I am heading out for a short swim this morning. The water temperature is 6°, air temperature 5°. So it is relatively warm. I am moving into winter swimming! Surprising myself! My question regarding the changing robe would be: can you get your wet swim suit off in there and dry off, then change into dry clothes? I am now very quickly changing while tucked in some bushes hoping no one will come along. Today I am bringing a cost blanket along to wrap myself in / hang over me while I get my suit off. Trying neoprene boots and gloves for the first time! Thanks for your tips and inspiration Rach!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Love a morning swim - might try for one tomorrow as the tide is right. I'd say 6 degrees is relatively chilly! You can get a wetsuit off under a changing robe, but the fight is real. Much like fighting your way out of a wet wetsuit in the open air, it is a struggle. I actually finish my swim by peeling my wetsuit off in the water - comes off like a banana skin - so much easier than fighting it with frustrated fumbly hands and tired limbs. How did you find the gloves and boots?

[@sunnyimpressions]

@@EverydayAthleteRach The neoprene gloves and boots made my swim very pleasant. I was in the water about 7 minutes in all. I am not wearing a wetsuit. Only a wet " swim suit". Hahaha!😂 My hands and feet felt just fine. Without them I couldn't even feel my feet anymore ( last swim). So the boots and mitts made the swim enjoyable. Otherwise my skin on my arms and back felt a sunburned sensation. Afterwards, warming up in the car with hot tea and lots of layers, my lower back was feeling a warm glow. I shivered about 15 minutes. But I felt great and I could feel my insides warming up. I really enjoyed the peace on the lake and the solitary beauty. Very precious moments in time for sure. And it is so cool connecting with you so far away, but enjoying the same challenge of swimming in unusual conditions. Enjoy your morning swim! And drink a cup of hot tea for me!

[@kathrynlucas6848]

Great comparison, thank you.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for your lovely feedback 🏊‍♀️😀

[@kreyon83]

I have the dry robe and love it! I've heard a few bad things about the smoc smoc unfortunately, coming apart after only weeks of use and then poor customer service when trying to get a replacement. That was the main thing that swayed me back to the dryrobe even though they're more expensive. Great review though 😊

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching. Glad you enjoyed the review 😊

[@user-ux7yg2ch6i]

Why are they so expensive? 😕. I've a good mind to just buy a waterproof coat 5 sizes too big and sew a lining of towels into it.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

There are some good waterproof ones for under £90, and also some much cheaper options which aren't waterproof. I have another review with a couple of much cheaper ones coming out tomorrow. In the meantime, here's the playlist with all of my changing robe reviews and what to look for when buying a new one: kzbin.info/aero/PLrBM9GuZgXX6o9Zl_IfPEHQ6HQkR-43WH

[@electrajones5462]

Cheers for body confidence!!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@cornishpasty6926]

Thank you very much 👍👍

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

No problem, thanks for watching!

[@rootsandcadenceearthstore7591]

Brilliant video thank you! 🙏🏻❤️❤️

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Donnah I'm pleased you found it helpful. Have you made your choice yet?

[@rootsandcadenceearthstore7591]

Everyday Athlete Rach it’s going to be a smoc smoc I think 🤔😊

[@jonwright8236]

thanks for great review, just started sea swimming ,on south west coast of Ireland, trying to find a seller of SmocSmoc here in Ireland, stay safe

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Jon, I think smoc smoc only sell for themselves, but they do send internationally...

[@sofiatysoe2072]

Thank you very much for this video! After watching it, I went for the Charlie McLoed one and I love it! They were super efficient in sending it and they added not only a huge dry bag but also a small little towel. One thing I wonder is if you have any video in how to put these changing robes into the Zone3 28L dry bag... Is there any special technique? Are the bags really resistant? (as you can imagine, I am new to Open Sea swimming) Thanks!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Sofia! Welcome to the gang! Thanks for watching I just stuffed it in to the towfloat, using no particular technique. I guess you could fold and roll it in. Here's the video of how I pack my tow float: kzbin.info/www/bejne/np3JgpisotKLhNk When towfloats don't work, it's usually due to user-error. I've had one of mine for 3 years and it's worked every time. Crush the air out, then roll the top down tightly and neatly at least 3 complete times, then blow a bit of air into the chambers - it doesn't need much. 🏊😀

[@jess65694]

I also purchased a Charlie McLoed coat after watching this video 🎉 thanks so much for such a great review video! 👏⭐

[@brerhare9118]

the sound on this one was very faint, but I got the gist! Thank you

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Oh, not sure what happened there. Thanks for sticking with it 😀

[@playgirlc]

nice video but my main criticism (if you want to call it that) is that i'm not a fan of branding and being a walking advertisement for a company i've paid money to - so it would have been good to see a 360 of the coat. other than that, very helpful, thanks.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Good point thanks. In later changing robe comparison videos I have done just that, including a twirl in it to see all around it. Thanks for watching 🏊‍♀️😀

[@markfoz7248]

I couldn’t stop looking at how calm and inviting the water is behind you but I did concentrate on what you were saying…. I remember something about bamboo and big breasts?? 😂 great video again thank you.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you enjoyed it! With a northerly wind, this spot is always super calm. I love swimming here!

[@jakeselwyn33]

Great video thanks.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you enjoyed it Jay! 🏊‍♀️😀

[@gedheaton1415]

Hiya Rach,can i ask would the Dryrobe fit into the Lomo run/swim backpack,I see it didn't fit in a 28ltr but can't find the volume of the Lomo backpack. Many thanks liked and subbed,

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Ed, sorry for the delay. I've now had a go at cramming the long sleeve dryrobe advance (size L) into my Lomo Watersport swim/run towfloat rucksack and... it fits and the tow float seals correctly 🏊😃

[@demostenes29bis]

thanks

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

You're welcome! 🏊😄

[@keeleysparrow8098]

Thanks for the video. I am a larger lady (5ft 7) size 20/22. My main consideration is going to be space to get changed inside. Any advice on the brands with the most space?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Keeley I would say any of those in the video, or in this video would be fine: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pGimXpZnpZl0gK8 I am 18/20 and they were all very spacious. I used size L. Let me know what you go for 🏊‍♀️😀

[@roisinking8881]

Hi! I saw some people at the beach with the dryrobe and my mam really wants one! What size are you wearing? I’d need to get that size!!! Thank you!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Roisin, I am a size L in dryrobe, smocsmoc and fourth element changing robes. I just went by the size guide from the manufacturers and there was plenty of room to change in all of them.

[@jenpopssportster48andseasw73]

Hi Rachel Really enjoyed watching your fun video I’m also a 18 and was wondering what size in the smocsmoc did u get You seem like someone who loves a good laugh Great video xx

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Jenny, thanks for watching. It is a size L. I found there was plenty of room in it and I have been as size 20 in the last year. Thanks for watching 🏊😃

[@Amandaewis]

Thanks Rachel. I think I will get the Charlie Mcloud. What size was it you tried please? L or XL?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Amanda the size I used is called L/XL

[@emmaastra3951]

What size is the red dry robe please? Looking to buy for a present and don’t know whether to get medium or large?!! Or extra large?! She’s 5ft 5.5 fluctuates between 16-22 depending on how much swimming she does (on average 18) top heavy round shoulders/arms/hips. Wish the website has more different size comparisons! Great review

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Emma, thanks for watching! The sizing of each of the robes is in the description below the video. I always go with the manufacturer's recommended sizes. 🏊😃

[@embk123]

Medium !! I am a 18-22 and 5ft3, I thought it would be too small but fits perfect 👍

[@Alex-gu5ei]

Im going to buy a 'Frostfire Moonwrap' though as they have great reviews and I dont think my regularity of swimming warrants a Dryrobe :D

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I haven’t seen one of those, I’m always interested to discover new kit. I hope you like it! 🏊‍♀️😀

[@00cameronalexander00]

@@EverydayAthleteRach I just got my Frostfire Moonwrap today. Quite a few of my fellow swimmers in open water group have them. Its brill! a lot like the dry robe and comes with a double zip which is handy for having more leg room etc. Love the videos btw!

[@p31115]

Great video. Which one dries quickest after getting wet in rain?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Neil, I don’t know as I haven’t soaked them. Better maybe to pick the one or two you fancy and go from there. The only one I’ve come across with a waterproof rating of 10K is the Fourth Element Storm Poncho - reviewed that one in the video on Eco Friendly Changing Robes...

[@amandabessant2261]

Great info thanks Have you come across Sola change robes please?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Afraid I’ve never heard of them, maybe check for trustpilot or google reviews? Good luck

[@tonyevans8699]

Do you ever use a swim watch if so is there any that you would recommend ?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Tony I have only used Garmin. I’ve had no problems with the 735 forerunner, the Fenix 3 and am currently using the Fenix 5s. I mostly buy them second hand from eBay.

[@diggysjournals7536]

is there one with a towel on the inside? How do you dry yourself?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

The smoc smoc is lined with bamboo terry toweling, the others are fleecy lined, I just use that to dry off enough to stick my clothes on. You could aloso use just a small hand towel underneath.

[@carrieonrunning9129]

ps. What watch are you wearing?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

A Garmin Fenix 5s 😀

[@savu3420]

i can order red robe long sleeve black last edition in ireland :((( why ?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I don't know, have you contacted Red Accessories to ask them?

[@lauraannebradley6722]

Love this video. It’s great to see a comparison. I wonder if you’ve had a chance to check out the new Charlie McLeod Eco? It’s tempting me :)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Laura, I haven't checked it out yet. I can see that it is an area people are really interested in. So maybe I'll do a poll on here about which ones I should test in a future video... Anything where production is and/or materials used are becoming more eco-friendly is music to my ears! 🏊😀

[@krisvq]

175 is 5'9'' :)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

You're right, my mistake, I'm 170cm I think! What a come down. Haha!

[@rogerlincoln6802]

Great presentation, sound a little low for next time :)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for the feedback Roger, I think I have mostly sorted the sound issues in more recent videos 🏊😃

[@jess65694]

Great video! With lots of river swims, is it possible to wash the inner lining of any of these robes so that they can get clean? Thanks!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Jessica they are all machine washable but the lining doesn’t detach on any of the ones I’ve tried.

[@jess65694]

@@EverydayAthleteRach brilliant, thank you!!

[@jonathanekstrom8329]

you should be on TV

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hehe thank you. I hope you’re enjoying the content.

[@donkeyuk]

What size was the dry robe please

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

The dryrobe was a size L