Passenger Escapism Changing Robe Review: I tried the unisex changing robe to go outdoor swimming
What is the Passenger Escapism Changing Robe?
Changing robes are cosy, oversized coats designed to help you get dry and stay warm while changing out of wet kit in the great outdoors. They can be used as a portable, weatherproof changing room for wild swimmers and surfers, or simply as a warm cover up while heading out into the elements.
There is a wide range of changing robes available on the marketfrom £40 to £250. Fully waterproof options sit at the higher end of the price bracket, such as the the popular Dryrobe Advance (£165) or Speedo's Change Robe (£250), while less hardy but more eco-friendly options that use recycled materials are more affordable, such as Voited and Regatta.
The unisex Passenger Escapism Recycled Sherpa Lined Changing Robe sits at the more affordable end of the market and comes in six colourways. It's water-resistant and the soft lining makes it a cosy option for spring and autumn outings without it appearing overly bulky.
How we test changing robes
A good changing robe should protect you against the elements and offer instant warmth and comfort when you step out of cold water. I tried out a range of robes after swimming in lakes and the sea in February, and looked for instant heat-trapping warmth, a quick-drying lining and ease of getting changed while wearing the Passenger Escapism robe.
I also tested how waterproof it is and how well the hood fits for further weather protection. Finally, I squished it into a backpack to see how portable and lightweight it is to bring along to swim sessions.
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Comfort
Score: 8/10
The soft, fleece sherpa lining is designed to mimic the comfort and warmth of natural sheep's wool, and it felt lovely against my skin. It wicks away water to help you get warm and dry quickly, but it will start to hold water and become heavy if you're taking multiple dips in a day. It didn't dry me as quickly as more premium robes I have tried, such as the Dryrobe, but the hood had a snug enough fit that it helped dry my wet hair. It also only weighs 800g, much lighter than the Dryrobe which weighs 1.3kg, so it won't weigh you down on a trek to the beach or a secret swim spot.
Changing robes are designed to be roomier than a coat so that you can get out of your swimsuit or wiggle into a wetsuit without taking them off. Passenger offers a good range of sizes from XXS to XXL, plus a guide that will help you get the right fit for your height. I'm a UK size 12 and tried out a size M, which gave me room to remove layers while trapping in enough heat to keep me warm.
Temperature regulation
Score: 6/10
Popping on the Escapism after a chilly swim in the sea instantly made me feel warm, and the wind-resistant design gives a fair amount of protection against the wind. The adjustable velcro straps on the sleeves meant I could trap in more heat and the snug hood stopped the wind and rain from hitting me square in the face.
The robe is water-resistant, so rain beaded off the surface without it becoming drenched, but as the design is not fully waterproof it won't withstand heavier downpours and could leave you cold in stormy conditions. It did not keep me as warm and snug as the thicker, heavier robes on the market, so I'd pick the Dryrobe or Frostfire for cold winter adventures, but the two-way zips have easy-to-grab pullers even for freezing cold hands, and the tricot-lined pockets helped warm mine up. The lighter design means it is more breathable than other robes, making it a good choice for warmer months.
Weatherproofing
Score: 5/10
Passenger treats their changing robe design with a Durable Water-Resistant (or DWR) coating. When I wore it in the rain the water and any splashes beaded right off the surface effectively, but this could wear off over time and may need renewing with a treatment such as Nikwax.
If you want a fully waterproof changing robe, look for information that states it is waterproofed to 10,000mm, which tests a fabric's ability to withstand water pressure before it is fully penetrated and means it should keep you dry in heavy rain. I'd reach for the Escapism robe on dry, chilly days. It is wind-resistant, which Passenger says gives protection on breezy ridgelines or coastal hikes, though it won't act as a windbreaker.
Portability
Score: 8/10
Changing robes tend to be on the bulky side owing to the fleece linings designed to keep you warm, but the Escapism is more portable than most. At 800g, it's one of the lighter robes on the market, folding up well to stash in its own storage bag or in a rucksack, making it a good pick for longer journeys or camping. It also means it doesn't take up huge amounts of room when you hang it up, which is handy for for smaller living spaces or trips along the coast in trusty van.
Sustainability
Score: 8/10
Passenger has good eco credentials here. The company uses 100 per cent recycled polyester made from single-use plastic bottles to make both the outer shell and the sherpa fleece lining of the Escapism robe, using a total of 85 recycled bottles for each item. All materials are vegan friendly and the water-resistant coating is made with PFC-free chemicals. Passenger also plants a tree every time it gets an order.
Technical specifications
Here's how the Passenger Escapism Robe stacks up against lead competitor, Dryrobe.
Should you buy the Passenger Escapism Changing Robe?
There's lots to like about Passenger's Escapism robe. The bold colours are fun on a grey day and the cosy robe made me feel warm instantly after I'd climbed out of cold water. It is roomy enough to let you change comfortably and doubles up nicely as a coat to wear on any walk or hike.
While it is not fully waterproof, it is a smart choice for an outdoor swim on dry and chilly days, has the added bonus of being made from recycled materials, and is a sturdy option while remaining cheaper than most changing robes on the market.
Yes, if:
You want a changing robe that will double up as a decent coat
You care about using recycled materials
You want a more affordable option
No, if:
You need a fully waterproof robe
You want a robe for cold and wet winter days
Passenger Robe FAQs
What size Passenger Escapism Changing Robe should I get?
The unisex Passenger Escapism changing robe comes in sizes XXS to XL. I'd recommend using the brand's sizing guide to find the right fit and picking one size down if you're planning to use it as a coat more than a changing robe.
How warm is the Passenger Escapism Changing Robe in winter?
The Passenger Escapism robe has a fleecy lining and water-resistant outer shell that traps in body heat and adds warmth – it's not as warm for winter as some bulkier changing robes, but it is more breathable. I'd recommend this coat for use in spring, summer and autumn and would swap to a thicker, fully waterproofed robe in bitter winter weather.
What do you use a Passenger Escapism Changing Robe for?
Pop this changing robe over your swimsuit or wetsuit after you exit cold water to get warm and dry. You can leave the Escapism on for the walk or drive home. Changing robes are having a bit of a style moment, so you'll see them worn casually as coats for shopping, dog walking and the school run. If you fancy a robe that doubles up as a coat, I think the Escapism is one of the smartest options out there.
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