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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To buy a dry robe as a winter coat?!

391 replies

justtosayihelped · 18/09/2026 08:45

I live in the south west. From October to March, our weather is 99% driving rain and howling wind. I’ve tried over the years to find a decent winter coat that keeps me warm and dry. I’ve found a few that work somewhat, including a lovely M&S rain jacket, but it’s a bit thin.

im considering just biting the bullet and buying a big waterproof changing coat from regatta and being cosy.

But does it look a bit wanky?! Is it okay?!

this is the one I have my eye on

https://www.regatta.com/adults-waterproof-changing-robe-dark-cherry/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=%7Bcampaignname%7D_16108952393&utm_content=%7Badgroupname%7D_&utm_term=&utm_brand=regatta&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16097452002&gbraid=0AAAAADQdSE8zgQrK5ij4KWiKVriu-WZ3p&gclid=CjwKCAjwwrPVBhA1EiwAv_YO-URMzXzdUfe_4pedDIy1IwFhHmTq04jbmI2WidUesYp3VTPhi4AJvBoCfVEQAvD_BwE

YABU - accept the soggy legs and wear something more dignified

YANBU - stay warm and dry

Adult's Waterproof Changing Robe | Dark Cherry

Oversized, weatherproof and warm, our Adult Waterproof Changing Robe will give you freedom of moveme

https://www.regatta.com/adults-waterproof-changing-robe-dark-cherry/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=%7Bcampaignname%7D_16108952393&utm_content=%7Badgroupname%7D_&utm_term=&utm_brand=regatta&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16097452002&gbraid=0AAAAADQdSE8zgQrK5ij4KWiKVriu-WZ3p&gclid=CjwKCAjwwrPVBhA1EiwAv_YO-URMzXzdUfe_4pedDIy1IwFhHmTq04jbmI2WidUesYp3VTPhi4AJvBoCfVEQAvD_BwE

OP posts:
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Lomonald · 18/09/2026 10:48

Dd has a cheapy version of a dryrobe for work, she works in childcare but they are near woods and water so they take the kids out in all weathers, she calls it her fugly coat,

persephoneee · 18/09/2026 10:46

I am not fussy about Winter jackets, they are functional and never will be stylish really! I have three or four, a mix of short, middle, and knee length. None are massive padded things as I hate feeling trussed up with somewhat restricted movement, AND looking like a barrell to boot! All have hoods as umbrellas are the most useless thing made by man in the gusts of wind we often get here. Oh and a beanie hat!

Add in my waterproof trousers and trainers for the worst days, and I'm sorted.

dominose · 18/09/2026 10:44

They are pretty ugly, but if it's for walking and outdoors etc then does it really matter?

I wouldn't wear it around town though.

Greenfinger555 · 18/09/2026 10:44

If you want it, like it, and it suits your needs, then buy it. I think sometimes when we feel a little unsure, it's because we worry about what other people will think. Enjoy being cosy!

Icouldabeenalawyer · 18/09/2026 10:43

I have this (diff colour). I wear to change under after races (runner) and to keep me warm following the race. It’s lovely and warm, but HUGE and I have the smallest size. Not saying it’s a bad thing, just thinking as an everyday coat it’s not the smartest? But will keep you toasty.

Pinkgin00 · 18/09/2026 10:41

They are ugly but I wear mine and I don't care what anyone thinks. Most waterproof coats are not stylish anyway.

Mine isn't the dryrobe brand, I think they get more stick. I bought mine as I was fed up of getting freezing and wet through watching my son play football, it has been a game changer since I bought one of these. I can even wear it over my winter coat for those bitterly cold days

Eviction26 · 18/09/2026 10:41

I think it depends on the person. I can't imagine myself in that. But other people it could really suit. Having said that i also wouldn't care if it was keeping me warm and dry. And I wouldn't judge anyone for what coat they wear. Personally I like tress pass coats.

lochmaree · 18/09/2026 10:40

I have a barefoot one and I absolutely love it. I don't care what it looks like, I am warm and dry underneath. I use it for school runs and walks.

shakeitoffoffoff · 18/09/2026 10:40

I have a DryRobe and I love it, I couldn't care less what anyone thinks of it. It's warm, comfortable and keeps me dry in our terrible weather.

I also have a North Ridge and love it x

AlphaApple · 18/09/2026 10:40

Some of them can be quite bulky and cumbersome so try before you buy.

No judgement from me, a coat / outer layer for commuting is a functional item and they are pretty common here in the south west.

lessglittermoremud · 18/09/2026 10:39

I live in the southwest and brought a coat from cotton traders, it keeps out the wind and rain when standing at the side line or dog walking.
I layer up underneath it if extra cold but it’s definitely stood the test of time as I’ve had it years. It comes to my knees but they do longer ones.

Bjorkdidit · 18/09/2026 10:38

justtosayihelped · 18/09/2026 10:32

I have one very similar to this but in khaki. It’s nice but not the warmest in the winter!

So wear a fleece or puffa jacket underneath? Extends the time you can wear it and you can take it off when you get too hot.

I wear my Didriksons, which looks similar, from early autumn to late spring by adjusting what I have on underneath.

My dry robe is for outdoor swimming only as is too bulky and rustly the rest of the time.

theneighbourgotmycake · 18/09/2026 10:36

Fine for standing around but rubbish if any movement or exertion is required.

fairly true. Fine for dog walking, strolls and casual walk (Christmas lights festivals etc). Nothing better to watch matches in outdoor stadium!

but would never had even considered for a hike. But you wouldn't, it's like a portable blanket.

justtosayihelped · 18/09/2026 10:36

TheEasterBunny3 · 18/09/2026 10:34

Ive got a regatta dry robe & use it watching DC at football, walking the dog & dping outside activities in the rain with the DC. I love it. But I dont wear it to work etc.

When it's really cold I wear this - ita lovely & warm with a good hood too.
https://www.regatta.com/womens-eloria-padded-jacket-dark-chocolate/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=%7Bcampaignname%7D_21452197611&utm_content=%7Badgroupname%7D_167282747889&utm_term=&utm_brand=regatta&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21452197611&gclid=CjwKCAjwwrPVBhA1EiwAv_YO-bpmKccxbFTalCdPO6jLMs4DFxBaLCqDRp8S4w1VX0rERbQ2rTQXRxoCOmcQAvD_BwE

I need something waterproof though. I have a couple of “water repellent” coats (Uniqlo) and they just get soaking wet

OP posts:
Happyjoe · 18/09/2026 10:34

Should be ok, but can you get one without the massive logo? I do hate clothes with a logo.
Warm, dry - far more important than fashion, esp when just out and about.

Edited, Seasalt do a good range of waterproof coats, there may be one that's lined warmly? Worth a gander.

Bluffinwithmymuffin · 18/09/2026 10:33

I bought mine for the beach but I often wear it in bad weather, which it’s perfect for. Sod what anybody else thinks, I’d rather keep warm and dry. My advice would be to go ahead and buy it.

justtosayihelped · 18/09/2026 10:32

I have one very similar to this but in khaki. It’s nice but not the warmest in the winter!

OP posts:
peachgreen · 18/09/2026 10:30

I have a Dryrobe brand one primarily for actual sea swimming, but I won't lie, I have, on occasion, thrown it on OVER my coat for extra protection on the school run (like many PPs I live in rainy NI, right by the sea). It really does work!

dreamingofgoodhair · 18/09/2026 10:29

Have you got a Go Outdoors near you ?
They have good options.
You have to pay a yearly membership fee (£5) but they have really good prices.

BananaPopcorn · 18/09/2026 10:25

LadySparrow · 18/09/2026 09:48

I’ve got the black outdoor Oodie coat. It’s enormous and ugly and I love it so much.

Another vote for this. I have this as well and it's SO warm. Stylish, no but I don't care.

LillyLeaf · 18/09/2026 10:22

I've just bought the Jaeger one from M&S. It's thick waterproof fabric but not fluffy lined which is fine as I can wear it now if it rains and with chunky knits in the winter. I sized up 2 sizes and it looks really nice. I tried the green and brown, both gorgeous colours