Every surfer knowns the car park changing dance. Wriggling out of your wettie, hopping around trying not to let your feet freeze, southerly’s howling, your poxy little k-mart bath towel barely covers below your knees and it hardly dries you because you didn’t bother to hang it up the day before. It’s not exactly the romantic image of surf culture. I’ll be the first to admit, I’ve let my ego and desire to ‘keep it core’ prevent me from upgrading from my $8 towel. However, after trying the Red Equipment Evo Pro Changing Robe, the bath towel will be staying where it belongs.
I’ve seen the parents rep them at boardriders while standing on the shoreline and the filmers camped on the beach in the elements, but this product really is for anyone and everyone involved in surfing in colder climates.
Here’s what you need to know about the changing robe:
Fit
This thing makes you look like Arsene Wenger on the touchline at a soccer game. It’s big, baggy and gives you plenty space to Houdini your way out of a winter wettie. The stretch side panels make it less of a fight, even when you’re stiff and shivering.
The Sherpa fleece lining makes you feel like you’re a walking doona. Think more couch blanket, rather than a towel.
Warmth
This is the first thing I noticed. Within seconds of putting this on, I was cooking. Choosing to first give it a go on a nice 25 degree spring Sydney day probably wasn’t the wisest idea. If you live in a place where it’s strictly boardshorts and rashies then this product isn’t for you. But if you live somewhere which has those cooler winter months then the robe is a perfect option.
Waterproofing
Rated at 15,000mm waterproofing, it handles rain and spray without flinching. Wind doesn’t cut through either. You could hang around a soggy carpark or the dunes for ages and still stay bone dry. The two-way YKK zip seals tight and has a fleece guard, so no sneaky draughts creeping in.
Durability
It feels tough without being stiff. Sand and salt doesn’t seem to phase it, although admittedly I’ve not had mine for long enough to give it a true test against time. However, the zips feel like they’ll go the distance. Last thing you want is a shoddy zip which breaks or stiffens up easy. It’s made from 100% recycled polyester with a PFC-free DWR finish, so it’s got some eco brownie points too.
Value
No sugar-coating it — this robe isn’t cheap. But if you’re out there in winter, chasing dawnies, camping by the coast, or clocking long days at a contest, it earns its keep.
Best suited for
Any surfer in milder conditions or those who feel the cold easy. It’s also a win for:
- Parents on the shoreline freezing through a weekend grom comp
- Coaches, photographers and filmers camped out in the elements
- Van-lifers and those on weekend trips up or down the coast looking for a portable warm-up tent
Basically anyone who spends time by the sea in less-than-tropical conditions will get the appeal.
Key features:
- Waterproof & windproof outer shell (15,000mm rating)
- Sherpa fleece lining for warmth and quick dry
- Two-way YKK zip with fleece guard
- Stretch side panels for easy wetsuit changes
- Peaked, adjustable hood
- Fleece-lined hand-warmer pockets
- Multiple stash pockets inside & out
- Made with 100% recycled polyester & PFC-free DWR
| Pros | Cons |
| Toasty and super warm | Bulky to lug around if travelling light |
| Keeps the rain and wind off | Pricey compared to my usual K Mart towel |
| Plenty of room to change without flashing the carpark | Overkill if surfing in the tropics |
| Eco creds with recycled fabric |
Where to buy
Final thoughts
The Red Equipment Evo Pro Changing Robe is a mobile changing room, doona and storm shell rolled into one. It’s perfect for surfers, adventurers and parents toughing it on the shoreline in colder conditions. It’ll make your post surf life a lot more comfortable and prevent you from hopping around the car park while clinging onto your towel.
