
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.
Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended
Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles.
From tents to walking boots, all reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more.
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.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


BBC News
33 minutes ago
- BBC News
Roads disruption warning ahead of Nottingham Open tennis tournament
Drivers are being warned of disruption ahead of the Nottingham Open tennis Highways has advised people to allow extra time for journeys if travelling to the event at the Lexus Nottingham Tennis Centre between 14 and 22 improvement scheme is currently taking place along the A52 Derby Road between the Priory and Queens Medical Centre roundabouts, with the westbound carriageway closed to all is a one-way system for eastbound traffic heading towards Nottingham and westbound traffic will follow a signed diversion route via Dunkirk Island, University Boulevard and Woodside Road. National Highways said tennis visitors are likely to see increased congestion, particularly along the diversion route.


Daily Mail
36 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
The length-boosting haircare trio saving holiday hair from sun, sea and chlorine - and you can get 20% off with our exclusive code
If hot weather, frequent dips in the sea and extra-strength chlorine swimming pool dunks tend to leave your hair looking and feeling worse for wear on holiday, then you'll want to snap up this three-piece UKHAIR haircare collection from top-selling lash growth brand UKLASH. Ideal as your full summer hair health collection, the UKHAIR Mini Hair Care Essentials kit has everything you need to keep hair healthier, longer and fuller on the go – even if you're travelling with hand luggage only. UKHAIR The Mini Hair Care Essentials £15.60 (save £3.90) Featuring 50ml versions of the brand's top-selling haircare essentials – the Shampoo, Conditioner and Repair Mask, this all-bases-covered collection has been designed to lay the groundwork for growth and hair health, delivering longer, stronger and healthier-looking hair. Designed for supercharged hair growth, bond-building and incredible repair, each product in this three-piece collection has been designed to target hair in need of some TLC. Shop UKHAIR Hair Growth Serum 30ml £23.20 (save £5.80) Ideal as the final step is the routine, the wildly popular Hair Growth Serum has been enriched with ingredients like protective AnaGain™, turmeric to give your scalp a regenerative surge and lemon fruit water to encourage growth. Results are impressive: 95 percent saw a reduction in hair loss while 85 percent agreed that their regrowth improved. Shop If heading on holiday often means leaving your usual haircare routine at home then this Mini Hair Care Essentials kit from UKHAIR should be the first thing you pack in your luggage The best part? You can score this must-have collection today for 20 per cent less with our exclusive MailOnline discount code DM20OFF. But you'll have to be quick, as this unmissable deal is only valid for 24 hours. If heading on holiday often means leaving your usual haircare routine at home then this Mini Hair Care Essentials kit from UKHAIR should be the first thing you pack in your luggage. Featuring 50ml versions of the brand's top-selling haircare essentials – the Shampoo, Conditioner and Repair Mask, this all-bases-covered collection has been designed to lay the groundwork for growth and hair health, delivering longer, stronger and healthier-looking hair. 'People often book in to see me at the clinic after they've been on holiday or come back from travelling as a change in environment can really wreck your hair,' writes Trichologist, Kate Holden MIT. 'Being able to maintain your haircare routine while away means that you don't randomly buy the cheapest product in a pharmacy, which tends to be harsher on the hair and exacerbates damage that your hair could be experiencing from chlorine, hard water and seawater, as well as UV and pollution.' So, if you're loving the full-size UKHAIR haircare collection at home or have simply been desperate to try it out before committing to full size, then the Mini Hair Care Essentials kit is going to be the holiday hair saviour you've been looking for. But what makes the collection so special? Studies show that exposing your hair to Chlorine, especially in combination with sun exposure, can cause a colour change and significant damage to the hair follicle, leaving it feeling weak, brittle and damaged. The Mini Haircare Essentials Set can help restore your hair to full health and rebuild the Keratin content in your hair, which makes up 80-85% of our hair follicles. From removing chlorine residue and cleansing the scalp to replenishing lost hydration and restoring strength and shine, this small-but-mighty trio leaves sun, sea and swimming pool damage in its wake. Designed for supercharged hair growth, bond-building and incredible repair, each product in this three-piece collection has been designed to target hair in need of some TLC, delivering healthier, thicker hair fast. While the Shampoo offers a powerful formula that works to cleanse and clarify the scalp, the Conditioner nourishes and hydrates, helping to protect and strengthen the hair follicle and create the perfect environment for growth. The Repair Mask delivers a deep conditioning treatment that uses bond-building technology to repair and restore the Keratin bonds in the hair follicle, leaving your hair feeling stronger, hydrated and healthier. And if you need any more proof that this trio is a must-have, Trichologist, Kate Holden MIT, had this to say when noting her opinion of products that were really worth the buy. 'I'd recommend investing in a good deep conditioning treatment, such as the UKHAIR by UKLASH Repair Mask. 'Its innovative bond-building technology can make a huge difference in rebuilding the protein content in your hair, making it smoother and stronger.' Alongside the UKHAIR Hair Growth Serum, which also comes in a travel-friendly 30ml size, you can leave holiday hair disasters in the past and enjoy that at-home hair even from away with UKHAIR. Ideal as the final step in your haircare routine, the UKHAIR Hair Growth Serum is a lightweight and non-greasy serum packed with natural ingredients like protective AnaGain™, turmeric to give your scalp a regenerative surge and lemon fruit water to encourage growth. These ingredients work together to promote healthier hair growth while repairing and protecting the hair follicles, showing a 95 per cent reduction in hair loss and 85 per cent hair growth in just a matter of months. Ready to make your holiday man your healthier and most gorgeous yet? Snap up the UKHAIR Mini Hair Care Essentials kit and Hair Growth Serum today and transform your hair. Plus don't forget to use code DM20OFF at checkout for a whopping 20 per cent off. But you'll have to be quick, as this unmissable deal is only valid for 24 hours.


BreakingNews.ie
42 minutes ago
- BreakingNews.ie
Jedward teams up with Lidl to mark store's 25th anniversary in Ireland
Lidl has unveiled merchandise to celebrate its 25th anniversary in Ireland with the help of Jedward. The clothing and summer accessories launch "is a colourful, tongue-in-cheek tribute to Lidl's cult status and customer loyalty over the past two and a half decades". Advertisement From June 19th, Lidl shoppers can pick up the limited-edition blue, yellow and red themed merchandise. Products in the range start from €1.49. The men's and women's fashion range include blue and yellow crocs-inspired clogs (€3.99) and sliders (€3.99), branded t-shirts (€3.49), short sleeved shirts (€5.99), and bucket hats (€4.99), as well as Lidl socks (€1.49), shorts and co-ord casual zip-up tracksuit jackets and shorts (from €14.99). Speaking about Lidl's 25th anniversary in Ireland and the latest middle aisle products, John and Edward Grimes said: 'We're so excited to join forces with Lidl to launch their new range of iconic merch to celebrate their 25th birthday. We've grown up with Lidl and getting to front a campaign with such bold looks is absolutely Jepic. The shoot was a blast – the middle aisle became our catwalk as we went full festival in Lidl couture. Advertisement "We love the bright colours – you'll definitely spot us at this summer's festivals in our matching bucket hats and branded shirts. The bucket hats are perfect for disguises and fit our quiffs perfectly. The shorts are super comfy – we feel like Paul Mescal showing off our Irish legs. We're even thinking of running the Dublin marathon in Lidl gear. "We've had famous friends asking for the Lidl sliders so we can all twin on holiday. And we have fond memories of our Grandad surprising us with gems from the iconic middle aisle – he'd be so proud. Lidl has always been part of our lives, and now it's part of our wardrobe too.' 2025 marks a milestone for Lidl, having opened its very first stores 25 years ago in Limerick, Letterkenny, Mullingar, Athlone, Cavan, Ballinasloe and Portlaoise. Today, Lidl operates 186 stores nationwide, employing over 6,500 and was recently named Ireland's Most Reputable Food Retailer in the Ireland RepTrak® 2025 study of 100 organisations. The new merchandise range will be available in Lidl stores from Thursday, June 19th while stocks last.