The surf poncho is one of the most useful items a surfer can have on the backpack or car trunk. It works simultaneously as a changing room and wearable towel.
Getting in and out of a wetsuit or swimsuit is one of the most uncomfortable and less practical moments in surfing.
Whether you're on an open beach or an outdoor or indoor parking lot, you need to keep your private parts to yourself.
The rule applies to both male and female surfers.
Who hasn't inadvertently dropped a towel while putting on or taking off the neoprene protection, boardshorts, or bikini?
The surf poncho is a simple yet highly effective changing robe that avoids embarrassment in public areas and keeps you warm.
Plus, thanks to its microfiber and cotton materials, it protects surfers from low air temperatures, minimizing the chances of catching a cold or flu, as it works as temporary clothing.
It's definitely warmer than the coziest beach towel and also features a hood that will protect your ears from exostosis and keep your head snug.
The post-surf sessions in cold water environments no longer need to be a nightmare. The changing dryrobe is the only accessory you need.
Nearly all surf ponchos are one-size-fits-all, but small, medium, large, and extra-large models can also be found.
How to Buy the Right Surf Poncho
Surf ponchos are not rocket science but must follow a few details and requirements to fit a surfer's needs.
The first and most important variable is privacy.
The surfer's robe will ensure most of your body is fully covered. So, most of them are large enough to help you put on and take off the wetsuit.
The second critical factor is warmth.
Surf ponchos act as a thick, absorbent cloth and as a windbreaker - and that makes all the difference.
In wintertime, you'll wish to get into your changing robe as soon as you paddle in and feel the cold breeze cutting through your skin and bones.
The third thing to consider is the quality of the materials and lining. Most surf ponchos are made from microfiber, cotton, or recycled fabrics.
They should feel soft and lightweight and make you comfortable and warm while changing.
Some feature waterproof coating, above-average insulation properties, pockets, sand-free characteristics, drawstrings, and harmless dyes.
You'll also find models that can even convert into beach towels.
Finally, if your changing cloak looks discrete and cool, that's a bonus.
Discover the best-selling surf-changing ponchos available in the market in 2024:
Sun Cube Surf Poncho
The Sun Cube Surf Poncho is a one-size-fits-all changing robe featuring an oversized hood, a pocket, and adjustable sleeves so you can discretely swap out clothes and wetsuits in public places.
It's the ultimate personal changing room made from 100 percent microfiber polyester. You can also transform it into a regular towel and dry it off anywhere.
Buy it: Amazon.com
HiTurbo Surf Poncho
The HiTurbo Surf Poncho is a surfer's private dressing room that absorbs water well and quickly, leaving your skin dry in less than a minute after putting it on.
It's compact, light, and easy to carry a wetsuit bathrobe for your surf trips.
Buy it: Amazon.com
Slowtide Digs Changing Poncho
The Digs Changing Poncho makes getting in and out of your wetsuit or swimwear easy, warm, and comfortable, and features pockets that protect your hands from the cold.
It is ultra-soft and made of highly absorbent 100 percent winter-weight cotton terry.
Buy it: Amazon.com
West Path Surf Poncho
The West Path Surf Poncho is a heavyweight and warm changing robe made from soft, 100 percent woven cotton.
It was designed by surfers and offers the correct dimensions and features for all movements.
You'll get armholes that don't leave women exposed, a greater length for taller riders, and an XXL hood with a warm fleece lining.
Buy it: Amazon.com
Ho Stevie! Surf Poncho
The Ho Stevie! Surf Poncho is a wetsuit-changing robe designed with extra length that will never expose your private parts in the parking lot.
It is made from soft and thick microfiber or cotton material that dries you off quickly and keeps you warm in the most extreme weather conditions.
The hood keeps your face and head cozy when it's cold and windy, and the hanging loop makes it for you to hang it back home.
Buy it: Amazon.com
Winthome Changing Robe
The Winthome Chancing Robe allows you to dress and undress easily, avoiding embarrassment thanks to its design and size.
Its side zipper pocket keeps your valuable belongings safe, and the opening hole on the other side makes it easier for you to fasten or unfasten your belt.
It is easy to carry, thick and durable, lightweight, small, and compact when folded.
Buy it: Amazon.com
CareWorx Wetsuit Changing Towel
The CareWorx Wetsuit Changing Towel is made from suede microfiber, which is soft on your skin.
Its super light, ultra-absorbent, and quick dry characteristics make it easy to carry and will dry up your body quickly.
This one-size-fits-most model is machine washable.
Buy it: Amazon.com
Vulken Hooded Surf Poncho
The Vulken Hooded Surf Poncho has been specifically designed for female surfers.
It comes with an XL hood that helps dry your hair quickly and snap buttons at both sizes to ensure maximum privacy during change.
Buy it: Amazon.com
Cor Changing Towel Robe for Kids
The Cor Changing Towel Robe for Kids is an all-in-one surf poncho and beach towel designed for children and young surfers.
It's comfortable, warm, and durable and will protect sensitive skin. In addition, the blanket features a front pocket for keeping hands warm and storing knick-knacks.
The large oversized hood will protect your kid's face and head from sun, rain, and wind.
Buy it: Amazon.com
Pakal Surf Poncho
The Pakal Surf Poncho is handcrafted by artisans of Mayan backgrounds in Yucatan using 100 percent Mexican cotton.
It's a stunning, exquisite, and ethnic changing robe that will provide shelter from the cold breeze while getting in and out of your wetsuit.
You may fold it inside the hood to carry as a beach bag, leaving your hands free for taking your surfboard.
Buy it: pakal-shop.com
The surf poncho review has been updated on January 9, 2024