WHAT IS A SURF PONCHO? A surf poncho is basically a loose fitting robe that allows you get changed in public. These items are basically wearable towels with a hood. They provide ocean goers a convenient way to change on the beach or in the parking lot while still maintaining privacy. Surf ponchos fit loosely and offer total comfort and warmth and after a long surf session.
A lot of surfers even wear them to hang out in after a surf or on their drive back from the beach. Over the years they have become somewhat of a surf fashion accessory in their own right.
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN BUYING A SURF PONCHO?
MATERIAL The material of a surf poncho is another important consideration. You want something that is soft, warm and ideally also highly absorbent. The poncho is what you will get changed into straight after a cold session in the ocean, so having top quality material is key. Microfiber material is considered to the best when it comes to durability and comfort.
WATER ABSORPTION A surf poncho is not only about comfort, privacy and durability. They can also act as a highly absorbent towel. Once again microfiber material is superior when it comes to the absorption of water.
THICKNESS The thickness of the changing poncho does not necessarily equate to quality. Thicker ponchos can be warmer and more snug. However, micro-fiber ponchos which are made of thinner material can be lighter and less cumbersome to wear. Thicker surfing ponchos can take up more space, take longer to dry and carry more dirt over time.
Thinner ponchos often lack the warmth one is looking for on those cold, winter days. You need to choose the right thickness poncho based on your exact surf changing requirements. We personally believe micro-fiber surf ponchos are better than thick and heavy ponchos, even though they may be warmer.
FAQ’S WHY SHOULD I BUY A SURF PONCHO? A surf poncho makes changing out of your wetsuit a seamless activity. They also keep you warm and dry and are very comfortable to wear.
WHAT SIZE SURF PONCHO SHOULD I PURCHASE? Most ponchos are one size fits all. Because they fit very loosely, fussing over a precise fit is not necessary.
ARE CHANGING PONCHOS WATER PROOF? Most surf ponchos are not waterproof, but rather water absorbent. If you are going spend time outside in your surf poncho when it's raining we recommend that you wear a waterproof jacket over it.
ARE SURF PONCHOS WORTH IT? Categorically yes. They keep you warm and dry, and remove need of using a changing room. Moreover, because of their water absorption capabilities they eliminate the need to carry a towel when you go surfing.