Fitness writer Zoe Griffin tested the £12.99 Decathlon surf poncho against the £175 DryRobe after swimming in the River Thames, and the budget option impressed for warmer months.
Budget poncho delivers on basics
The Decathlon poncho, made entirely from cotton, offers privacy to change and soft fabric to dry off. It lacks a hood, fleece lining, and waterproof outer, but packs easily into a beach bag.
Griffin noted that on warmer days she wore it while changing into shorts and a t-shirt, then rolled it up neatly. On colder days, she added a hoodie after packing it away.
DryRobe justifies premium price
The DryRobe Advance, with recycled nylon outer and sherpa fleece lining, trapped body heat immediately after a Thames swim. Its oversized fit allowed easy changing, and the two-way zip worked well with cold hands.
Weighing 1.3kg, it is heavy but offers exceptional warmth and weather protection, making it ideal for autumn and winter swimming.
Verdict: different robes for different seasons
Neither robe is universally better; they suit different conditions. For sunny-day swims, the Decathlon poncho at £12.99 is fantastic value. For year-round cold-water swimming, the DryRobe's warmth and performance are hard to beat.
