Why We Designed WaveMe StayDri to Be a Different Kind of Changing Robe
“Ah, Look at Those Dryrobes!” – Why We Love the Compliment (But Have to Correct It)
Introduction: The View from the South West Coast…
If you’ve ever walked past the WaveMe pop-up shop during our tours along the stunning South West coast, or caught up with us back home in Wiveliscombe, Somerset on The Square, you’ve probably heard it. A passerby stops, points at our latest gear, and says to their friend: "Oh look, those are gorgeous Dryrobes! Definitely more my style."
As a independent designer, my heart does a little leap because they love the aesthetic—but then I have to gently step in and say: "Thank you so much! But they’re actually StayDri by WaveMe, not a Dryrobe®."
It happens on every single Pop-Up-Shop. And honestly? We get it.
The "Hoover Effect" in the Changing Robe World…
What we are witnessing firsthand in the outdoor community is a classic case of a brand name becoming the word for the product itself. Just like we say "Hoover" when we mean vacuum cleaner, or "Sellotape" for clear sticky tape, the term "Dryrobe" has accidentally become the generic shorthand for any outdoor changing coat.
The outdoor changing robe market has exploded recently, growing into a highly competitive space with dozens of choices (actually even more so now than when we first designing ours but within that lengthy process, hundreds seemed to prop up from nowhere). Pioneering brands did an amazing job introducing the concept of a massive, weather-proof shelter for swimmers to change under. But because that specific look became so dominant, people now look at any premium swim coat and use the same word. I suppose this is why I am so glad that John and I wemt down a very unique path and started a unique design of our own from scratch which is costly and risky but it was clearly the right move.
But just like a tailored trench coat isn’t a raincoat, StayDri by WaveMe is built on a completely different design philosophy.
Why WaveMe is a Different Breed of Changing Robe…
When I sat down to design the StayDri Collection, I didn't want to create another carbon-copy, comically oversized changing jacket. I wanted to solve the problems that active outdoor lovers actually face.
Here is what makes a WaveMe garment unique:
Tailored, Flexible Silhouette: Traditional changing robes are intentionally massive so you can pull your arms inside to change. They are brilliant for a freezing beach, but incredibly bulky if you want to wear them anywhere else. WaveMe is designed with a streamlined, flexible fit that moves with you and allows ypu to be comfortable all day long, after a swim, walking, eating and drinking.
From Sea Swims to Dog Walks: Because our coats aren't oversized, they don't look out of place away from the water. Our community wears them for wild swimming and sea swims, but just as often for camping trips and walking the dog in the brisk British weather; In-fact, they are now being worn accross the globe on boats and the decks of yachts.
Next-Generation Quick-Dry Fabrics: Some pieces in our collection focus on an ultra-soft, premium outer layer paired with specialized internal linings that dry you off super quick after a swim, prioritizing cloud-like comfort and packability over stiff, heavy waterproofing.
True Designer Quality: Every single piece is designed by John and I (with some help from our small dedicated design team) right here in the UK. We focus on premium construction, beautiful finishes, and a high-end look that means you look stylish whether you're dripping wet by the Atlantic or grabbing a coffee in town.
The Verdict
The next time you're packing up after a wild swim or heading out into a damp morning, you don't have to compromise style for warmth. We have nothing but respect for the brands that started the outdoor robe revolution—but the market has evolved, and so have the designs.
If you're looking for a premium alternative that offers better flexibility, designer quality, and a fit you can actually walk the dog in without feeling weighed down, come explore the StayDri Collection.
Next time you see us out on the coast or in Wiveliscombe, come say hello—just remember to look for the WaveMe logo!
