We totally get it. Changing robes have been around for years, and everyone seems to have one. Isn’t it basically part of every open-water swimmer’s kit?
Well… not necessarily.
At Warmcor, we want to show you a different way to change. One that focuses on warmth, speed, and modesty. We believe our Changing Tube ticks all three boxes, while a robe… well, we’d argue it only half-ticks one.
1. Modesty
Let’s face it: For many swimmers, particularly women, getting changed outdoors can be the least favourite part of open water swimming. We’ve all been there: fumbling with a towel that threatens to slip at the worst moment, or praying the local dog walker doesn’t appear just as you’re navigating your bra.
A traditional Changing Robe might offer some coverage, but can you see what you’re doing without unzipping and risking a towel-like collapse? More than once, I’ve seen swimmers unzip, only to have the robe drop to the ground. Not ideal!
By contrast, the Changing Tube covers you from your torso down to above the knee, without drowning you in fabric. The stretchy fleece and drawstring fastening gives you the freedom to move it around your body. No sleeves, no fuss, and no accidental exposure. Your modesty remains firmly intact. Job done.
2. Speed
Here’s something every open-water swimmer knows: once you’re out of that water, the clock is ticking. You’re still cooling down, and there’s a narrow window before afterdrop sets in. That’s why the usual advice is “get dressed quickly!”
And this is where I’ve personally seen the Changing Robe fall short. With sleeves and zippers to navigate, I’ve found myself contorting into awkward positions - sometimes putting my arm through the neck hole by mistake, then starting over! If you’re already cold, this extended wrestling match only makes things worse.
The Changing Tube, though, lets you see exactly what you’re doing. No sleeves or armholes means no confusion. You can layer up on top of the Changing Tube right away for an instant boost of warmth. Need to shift it lower to free up your top half? Easy, just pull it down. It’s essentially a “boob tube,” but one that’s comfortable, cosy, and keeps you properly covered.
Challenge: Who’s going to be sipping a hot drink and munching cake first - a changing robe user, or you in your Changing Tube? My money’s on the Changing Tube every time.
3. Warmth
Ultimately, post-swim changing is all about retaining your core warmth. A Changing Robe can make a good coat once you’re fully dressed, but what if it’s already damp inside from changing under it?
The Changing Tube, on the other hand, is made of 100% polyester fleece - soft, stretchy, and super warm. It’s not a towel, but a changing aid designed to wick away those final droplets while you layer up and get changed with ease.
Once excess water is patted off your body, remove your arms from your costume, put the Changing Tube over your head and as you pull down the Changing Tube over your torso, take your costume with you, and voilà! Cold costume off, cosy fleece on!
In winter, layering over your Changing Tube is a game-changer. Customers often mention forgetting they’re even wearing it because their shoulders aren’t weighed down by excess material. Some even keep it on as a skirt over their trousers to warm up cold legs. It’s that versatile, it’s worked everywhere from brisk British lakes to a scorching 43°C Australian beach!
Which Will You Choose?
If you want a coat to protect you from the elements, a standard Changing Robe will suffice - there are plenty on the market, the majority made in China. But if you’d rather have a British-made product that’s lightweight, easy to pack, and lets you change with modesty, speed, and warmth, then Warmcor’s Original Changing Tube is the clear winner.
Ready to make the switch? We’d love for you to experience the difference yourself. Say goodbye to wrestling with sleeves, stepping on hems, and awkward half-zip moments. Instead, say hello to a stress-free, warm, and modest changing solution - all in one cosy Changing Tube. Enjoy your swim without the struggle afterwards! Don’t take my word for it. Check out all our customer reviews on the Changing Tube pages.
