A good changing robe can make all the difference when battling the elements and enjoying those pre- and post-session moments at the beach. Jen Tyler catches up with Ride Engine’s Gary Siskar in this Tech Focus feature to break down the key differences between the Bonfire, Tech, and Shelter changing robes. From wild coastal winds to tropical downpours and everything in between, find out which robe fits your next session!

Hi Gary, thanks for joining us! We’re stoked to hear all about Ride Engine’s changing robes. First up, can you walk us through the main differences between the Bonfire, Shelter, and Tech changing robes? 

Absolutely. We all know that beach conditions can vary dramatically, whether it’s cold or sweltering hot, when gearing up for or winding down after a session. As we developed our line of changing robes and ponchos, we saw an opportunity to offer a tiered system: lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight options, much like those found in high-performance outerwear collections. The Shelter is our lightweight, thin-shell changing poncho that is windproof and water-resistant, perfect for mild conditions. The Tech Changing Robe is our midweight option, featuring a full-length zipper, windproof outer shell, and a cosy synthetic lambswool lining for added warmth and comfort. And for the coldest days, we offer the Bonfire, a heavyweight, quilted, down-filled poncho designed to handle blustery weather or to keep you warm around the campfire.

Which robe is best suited for extreme wet weather, and why? 

Each robe has its purpose, but when it comes to braving extreme weather, it’s those cold, wet, and windy days that truly put gear to the test—and that’s precisely where the Bonfire stands out. With its oversized poncho-style fit, slipping in and out of a wetsuit is a breeze. The down-filled insulation and weather-resistant shell protect you, keeping you warm no matter what the forecast says. And the best part? It’s so cosy, you won’t want to take it off—just jump in the car or kick back and enjoy that sleeping-bag-like warmth after your session.

What kind of sessions or situations is each robe best made for, like post-surf, cold mornings, or rigging up in the wind? 

The Shelter is a solid choice; it is lightweight, easy, and protective when it’s warm or has tropical showers and wind. For those chillier, ominous, misty days when you want something you’ll happily keep on after your session, the Tech Changing Robe delivers comfort and coverage before and after hitting the water. And when the wind is nuking or snow is on the ground, but you’re still suiting up, the Bonfire has your back, making it easy to get in and out of even the thickest wetsuits while keeping you seriously warm.

How does the waterproofing on the Shelter robe compare to the Tech one? 

The Shelter features a laminated waterproof coating, while the Tech Changing Robe uses a micro-weave ripstop fabric for water resistance. Both provide solid protection from the elements during a quick change. However, the Shelter is your best bet for staying dry if you plan to linger in heavy, driving rain.

Is the Shelter robe warm enough for chilly days, or is it more for mild weather? 

As a single-layer, windproof, and waterproof shell, the Shelter offers some protection against the chill, but it’s designed as our lightweight, compact, and easily storable changing robe. If you’re looking for something to combat the cold, the Tech Changing Robe or the Bonfire are much better suited for the job.

The Bonfire’s got that wind-resistant shell—how well does it hold up in wild coastal weather?

We packed everything into the Bonfire. With a windproof, water-resistant outer shell and insulating down fill, it’s built to handle the harshest conditions, perfect for those bitter days when you still have to wrestle into and out of your wetsuit.

Is it okay to wear the Bonfire in the rain, and how should we look after it after a session? 

It’s perfectly fine to wear the Bonfire in the rain to change in and out of your wetsuit. However, like all down-filled outerwear, once the insulation gets wet, it can clump and lose its ability to retain warmth. The outer shell offers light water resistance and is ideal for quick changes, but if you’re expecting to be standing in a downpour, the Tech Changing Robe or the Shelter poncho is a better choice.

What is the purpose of the zippered side-arm holes on the Tech robe, and how do they help with changing?

The Tech Changing Robe is designed more like an oversized technical jacket, offering full-length coverage with a comfortable, insulated interior. One of its key features is the discreet zippered side access panels, which allow you to easily change in and out of a wetsuit, bikini, or swim trunks without the robe raising up. This means more privacy, less hassle, and better protection from wind and cold while changing. Its windproof shell and soft synthetic lambswool lining make it a go-to piece for pre- and post-session comfort, especially in cooler, blustery conditions.

How effectively does the synthetic lambswool lining retain body heat after a cold-water session? 

Synthetic lambswool has long been used in outerwear, workwear, and foul-weather gear, and for good reason. It’s a proven alternative to natural lambswool, offering excellent insulation while maintaining performance when wet. Unlike natural wool, it won’t retain odour when damp, making it a practical and reliable choice for a changing robe. After a session, a wet wetsuit can dampen the liner.

What makes the Tech robe your go-to when it’s really blowing on the beach? 

The Tech Changing Robe is the perfect choice for most beach conditions, whether it’s blowing, chilly, or damp, it simply delivers. Inspired by the oversized robes ski racers wear while waiting for their runs, it offers full-body and arm insulation, a deep hood, and a weatherproof shell. Designed for performance and comfort, the Tech Changing Robe will become your go-to layer for changing and chilling on the beach.

Last but not least, out of the three, which one’s your personal favourite and why? 

Ah, that’s a tough one! But I’d go with the Bonfire if I had to choose just one. Its super-oversized fit makes getting in and out of a wetsuit effortless, and it’s incredibly comfortable to just lounge around in. It feels like walking around wrapped in a cosy down sleeping bag! Who doesn’t like that?!

Perfect, thanks so much, Gary!

Thanks, Jen

By IKSURFMAG