Spring is almost upon us, and it can’t come any sooner. If you’re planning to get involved in water sports to blow away the cobwebs, the mighty dryrobe will help keep you dry and warm regardless of what the weather is doing. Sabi Phagura wraps up what she thinks of it…
As lockdown restrictions are heading towards being lifted, but plans for foreign travel still remain pretty much parked, for now, it’s no wonder online searches for staycations are on the rise. With plenty to discover on our doorstep across the UK, it’s a shame we needed Covid-19 to realise that holidaying at home is actually a great idea.
There are numerous benefits of a staycation, not least skipping the airport hassle, cutting your travel time, and being kinder to the environment. By staying in the country, you won’t just be exploring some of the most stunning parts of our fabulous island, but you’ll be immersing yourself by partaking in activities often only associated with holidays abroad. Put simply, we can spend less time travelling and more time unravelling.
Think open lake swimming, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing and much more.
However, we all know the UK weather can’t be relied upon, which can put a dampener on things. The saying ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather. Just bad clothing’ rings ever true.
The key is to be well prepared and equipped with the right garments to make activities you get stuck into as enjoyable as possible. Enter dryrobe. Pioneers of one of the most advanced change robes to see you dry and warm whatever the weather, they’ve seen a meteoric surge in demand, and it’s the perfect accompaniment for any adventure seeker to keep them warm without ever feeling wet or cold…. even in the winter months.
So, if you fancy a spot of cold-water swimming or any other water sport, you may want to find out how this garment can help you get the most of your chosen activity.
Background
The frustrated UK based surfer, who has over 30 years’ experience in the water, was searching for a solution to getting changed comfortably against all weather conditions.
As with many stories involving creativity and invention, fortune really does favour the brave.
Gideon’s mother was a ‘dab hand’ with a sewing machine and decided to create something that enabled getting changed outdoors, which was also comfortable.
The make-shift change robe resembled a huge cape with waterproof material on the outside with a towel lining inside accompanied by a hood.
Although Gideon was initially somewhat dismissive of his mother’s efforts, the cape soon became an essential piece of kit whenever he went surfing.
This creation planted the waterproof and windproof ‘robe’ idea in Gideon’s head, but it wasn’t until years later, a soggy rain-soaked Gideon in a car park decided to do something about it.
Basing himself from his garden shed, Gideon began working away on several designs while experimenting with a variety of materials to uncover the ideal combination. Following a great deal of experimentation, Gideon was able to develop a front zipping change robe that was a combination of both a warm, advanced towel lining coupled with a waterproof and windproof protective outer layer. It was back in December 2010 the first dryrobe was sold, and since then, he’s never looked back.
dryrobe – a hit with elite athletes and amateur sports enthusiasts
Since then, the dryrobe has received high praise and has become a very familiar sight on the backs of elite athletes all over the world. It has now become an essential companion for surfers, swimmers, triathletes, obstacle course racers, and virtually all outdoor sports.
Adventure seekers have embraced the benefits of staying warm while changing outdoors or just hanging about outdoors. dryrobe’s can often be seen being worn by sports stars and celebrities at events.
The dryrobe team has also partnered with some of the world’s biggest brands and teams to supply them with a kit, including Red Bull, GoPro, Sport Relief, Team GB at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and Ross Edgley’s Great British Swim. We’ve seen a dryrobe for ourselves and have to say it pretty much does what it says on the tin.
It keeps you dry, warm and is great for changing in without the faff of tying a towel around the body. Admittedly it’s bulky, but it is definitely worth taking it along with you for all manner of sports activities.
How to choose your style
The dryrobe Advance is available in two sizes; long and short-sleeved (see above).
The size you need may depend on the type of activity you’ll be undertaking. There are many designs and robes to choose from, and there is even one for your beloved pooch! What’s not to like?
dryrobe – Where and How?
The adult’s short sleeve and long sleeve styles are available priced from £130. To check out the full range, or for further information on the dryrobe itself, visit www.dryrobe.com.
Read more sports and outdoor guides and features here.