Can a Dryrobe transition from the shore to the shops? We review the Dryrobe Nexus to find out
Can a Dryrobe look cool in town while staying functional for swim changing? Helen Webster puts the new Dryrobe Nexus to the test.
220 Triathlon Verdict
Versatile and high quality robe with some nifty features. Price high though. Score: 93%
Pros
- Easy to change under
- Several pockets and clever features
- Waterproof, warm and breathable
- 100% recycled
- Lighter and less bulky than before
Cons
- Expensive
The Dryrobe Nexus is a lighter than the previous generation, which was more of a pure swim changing robe than multi-use item of clothing.
In making the new Nexus slimmer-fitting, lighter and highly waterproof, Dryrobe says: “We’ve created a changing robe that feels just as natural in an urban environment as it does on the shoreline.”
The Nexus is available in two colours. There’s the funky camo version which I tried out, plus a more stealth plain black version. I guess the first thing to say is that this isn’t obviously something that appears different. To all intents and purposes I just look like I’m wearing a Dryrobe. That new fit is definitely noticeable though as the fit immediately feels sleeker and there’s less fabric flapping around me. It’s lighter and less cumbersome as a result, too. All that isn’t at the expense of warmth though.
The Nexus is crafted from 100% GRS-certified recycled fabrics, featuring a recycled nylon outer and recycled polyester inner. It also features ‘fast-drying back2skin technology’, with a lighter-weight fleece than in the standard robe which nonetheless kept me toasty enough in cold weather.
All this said, how did it fare for changing under? Actually, very well. It’s still reasonably roomy (I’m in a size medium here, as recommended by the size guide) and I found it easy enough to change inside.
One new feature which is a touch of genius though is the main pockets. As well as the outer zip, they have poppers on the fleece lining which allow you to put your hands through them and into the robe to adjust your clothes. Known as ‘reach-through pockets’ it’s a nifty feature that makes things much easier.
Other features include a zip pocket on the chest for valuables/ small items, a generous peaked hood with cord to cinch it around your face and breathability in the waterproof fabric.
Bottom line
In short, this is a great do-it-all robe that will please those that wear a Dryrobe for more than just changing under.
We’ve also reviewed the best Dryrobe alternatives.
Dryrobe Nexus specs
| Price | £225 |
| Colour | XS-XL |
| Sizes | Black, Sand Camo Orange |
| Construction | 100% recycled ripstop Nylon outer, 30,000mm waterprooding, 10K breathability; 100% recycled polyester inner |
| Features | Peaked, adjustable hood; fitted sleeves with fasteners; YKK Aquaguard zips; external zip pocket; reach-through pockets to access mid-layers; internal mesh pocket; external chest pocket |
| Weight |
Helen Webster
Editor, 220 Triathlon 
