mybest
Sports and fitness

Helping You Find the Best

Close
  1. TOP
  2. Sports and fitness
  3. 10 Best Surf Ponchos in 2022 (Slowtide, Sun Cube, and More)
  • 10 Best Surf Ponchos in 2022 (Slowtide, Sun Cube, and More) 1
  • 10 Best Surf Ponchos in 2022 (Slowtide, Sun Cube, and More) 2
  • 10 Best Surf Ponchos in 2022 (Slowtide, Sun Cube, and More) 3
  • 10 Best Surf Ponchos in 2022 (Slowtide, Sun Cube, and More) 4
  • 10 Best Surf Ponchos in 2022 (Slowtide, Sun Cube, and More) 5

10 Best Surf Ponchos in 2022 (Slowtide, Sun Cube, and More)

Visiting the ocean, a river, or a lake can lead to lots of fun, but you need a way to dry yourself off. While some people will bring towels, you could use a surf poncho instead. Surf ponchos are great since they work as towels while also giving you something to wear once you dry off. However, it can be hard to find the right surf poncho for your trip.


We liked Surf Cube's poncho since it includes a good length, some nice sleeve buttons, and multiple colors to choose from. You have lots of choices for surf ponchos, so you can check out the buying guide as you check the products on the top 10 list!

Last updated 09/26/2023
mybest US Editors
Guide
Editing Dept.
mybest US Editors

mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.

mybest US Editors's Profile
…Continue reading

Table of Contents

What is a Surf Poncho?

Surf ponchos aren't the most common items at the beach, so you may not know what they can do. Because of this, we wanted to talk about what surf ponchos are and how you can use them.

Use It as a Portable Changing Station

Use It as a Portable Changing Station

When you go to a beach, river, or lake, you may not have access to a changing room. This could leave you in an awkward position where you have to wear your wet clothes when you finish swimming. Luckily, if you own a surf poncho, you won't face that problem anymore!


Surf ponchos cover your body, usually down to your legs. Since there is a ton of room in the poncho, you can change clothes without revealing yourself. If you need a portable changing room, you can't go wrong with a surf poncho.

Dry Off With a Wearable Towel

Dry Off With a Wearable Towel

A surf poncho doesn't only function as a changing room but also as a towel. These ponchos are made out of microfiber or cotton to dry you off.


Once you get out of the water, you can use your surf poncho to dry off. This includes wearing the poncho and using the outside of it as needed. Even if you're still a bit wet from swimming, you can wear the poncho until you're completely dry

An Extra Layer Helps Avoid the Cold and Sunburn

An Extra Layer Helps Avoid the Cold and Sunburn

Even if you don't go swimming, you may want an extra layer of clothing when it gets cold. For example, if you want to see a sunset at the beach, a surf poncho might be the perfect piece of clothing for you. They will cover most of your body and protect it from the wind.


On top of that, the surf poncho can help you avoid sunburn. Since it will cover a good portion of your body, you might not have to cover yourself with sunscreen on the parts protected by the poncho. However, make sure to consider its thickness and, when in doubt, still use sunscreen. 

How to Choose Surf Ponchos

Since surf ponchos come in different sizes and materials, we decided to make this buying guide to help you find the best poncho for you!

1

Find the Right Poncho Size and Material for You

Ponchos come in various lengths and two different materials, so we wanted to explain these differences to help decide which options are best for you.

Check the Poncho’s Length

Check the Poncho’s Length

Surf ponchos vary in length, which refers to the size of the poncho from the shoulders to the bottom hem. Shorter ones will be around 37 inches in length, while longer ones can be as long as 47 inches.


The correct size depends on your height and preferences. For example, if you're around five feet tall, you'll be better off with one around 37 inches long. On the other hand, if you're over six feet tall, you may want a 47-inch option.


Most products will tell you the poncho lengths on the product pages, along with general guidelines for their poncho sizes. You can also look into the poncho’s width, though it doesn’t matter as much as the length since most of them are designed to fit adults.

Microfiber for Durability, Cotton for Breathability

Microfiber for Durability, Cotton for Breathability

Most surf ponchos will be made out of microfiber, a synthetic material that's typically a blend of polyester and polyamide. Microfiber is durable and dries well, so it's great for surf ponchos. However, you need to be careful when you wash microfiber since it can collect lint from other materials. 


You may come across surf ponchos made out of cotton, though this material isn’t as common. Cotton is breathable and absorbs water well, so it does a great job of drying and cooling you off. On the other hand, it becomes heavy when it absorbs lots of water, which can make it uncomfortable to wear.

2

Think About the Weather in Your Area

The weather in your area may impact the type of surf poncho you want to wear. Here are some suggestions of ideal colors and sleeve lengths to help you avoid feeling too cold or hot.

Pick Colors Based on the Weather

Pick Colors Based on the Weather

Light and dark colors have different benefits when it comes to weather, so you must keep that in mind when you pick a poncho. Light colors do a good job of reflecting light and heat, so they are the better choice for warm weather. On the other hand, dark colors absorb light and heat, making them ideal for colder weather.

Select a Sleeve Length Based on the Season

Select a Sleeve Length Based on the Season

There are three common poncho sleeve lengths. Short sleeves end near the shoulders, medium sleeves end halfway down the upper arm, and long sleeves are near or past the elbow. 


Short sleeves make a poncho more comfortable during the hot months, but your entire arm will be exposed to the sun. Long sleeves are great for cold weather and absorbing more water, but they can get hot and stuffy during the summer. 


Medium sleeves are a solid in-between option if you don't know which one to go with. Most products don’t mention the specific lengths for sleeves, but they use models and tell you their heights to give you an idea of the sleeves' length.

3

Look Into Useful Features Like Pockets and More

Surf ponchos will have different pockets, slit lengths, and sleeve buttons, so let's take a look at these points!

Pockets for Easy Storage

Pockets for Easy Storage

Surf ponchos sometimes include pockets, such as chest or kangaroo pockets. Pockets make it easy to reach your belongings, especially for items that cannot be stored in swimsuit pockets. If you want extra security, look for zippered pockets. 


Some people may also find it comfortable to leave their hands in a kangaroo pocket while they dry off. However, the pockets will absorb water, so be careful if you leave paper or electronics in the poncho.

Side Slit Length for Maneuverability

Side Slit Length for Maneuverability

Many surf ponchos have side slits on each side that vary in length. Longer slits provide more room to walk and run since your legs can slip through them as needed. However, you have to be more careful of covering yourself if you change into a surf poncho with longer slits. 


Shorter slits do a better job covering you if you decide to change your swimwear while wearing your poncho. However, they will restrict your movement if you need to run. 


Keep in mind most products won’t give you measurements for the slits. You can look at the photos to get an idea of their length; longer slits will be around the knee, while shorter slits will start around your shins.

Sleeve Buttons to Conveniently Change

Sleeve Buttons to Conveniently Change

Some ponchos have buttons underneath each sleeve to open it up as needed. This makes it easy to put on and remove your poncho since you can button and unbutton your sleeves for more space.


This also lets you open up the poncho and use it as a towel when you need to. However, if the buttons ever fall off or break, you won't be able to properly close the poncho to change your clothes. 


It's not as common, but some ponchos also have buttons around the neck that make it easier to put on and take off over your head.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10
Best Surf Ponchos Ranking

Here are the best Surf Ponchos, ranked according to 10 Best Surf Ponchos (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Sun Cube

Surf Poncho Changing Robe with Hood

Sun Cube Surf Poncho Changing Robe with Hood 1

$27.99

Low Mid

Plenty of Colors Along With Convenient Buttons

2

Open Road Goods

Surf Poncho

Open Road Goods Surf Poncho 1

$69.99

High

A Cotton Option With A Hood and Handy Pockets

3

Hiturbo

Microfiber Surf Beach Wetsuit Changing Towel

Hiturbo Microfiber Surf Beach Wetsuit Changing Towel 1

$23.99

Low Mid

A Lightweight Choice With Buttons and a Hanging Strap

4

Slowtide

The Digs Changing Poncho

Slowtide The Digs Changing Poncho 1

$79.95

High

A Cotton Poncho With a Lot of Design Options

5

Dock & Bay

Adult Towel Poncho

Dock & Bay Adult Towel Poncho 1

$40.00

High Mid

Different Size Options Along With a Storage Pouch

6

Hiturbo

Wetsuit Changing Robe Towel Poncho

Hiturbo Wetsuit Changing Robe Towel Poncho 1

$35.99

Mid

A Lightweight Poncho With Long Sleeves

7

Vulken

Hooded Beach Towel Changing Robe

Vulken Hooded Beach Towel Changing Robe 1

$29.99

Mid

A Poncho Designed for Taller People

8

Ho Stevie

Thick Microfiber Surf Poncho

Ho Stevie Thick Microfiber Surf Poncho 1

$34.97

Mid

A Poncho With a 47-Inch Length and Short Sleeves

9

Catalonia

Surf Poncho Changing Towel Robe

Catalonia Surf Poncho Changing Towel Robe 1

$24.99

Low Mid

A Standard Surf Poncho With Plenty of Space

10

Winthome

Surf Poncho Changing Robe

Winthome Surf Poncho Changing Robe 1

$24.99

Low Mid

A Microfiber Poncho That's Great for Kids

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Sun CubeSurf Poncho Changing Robe with Hood

Surf Poncho Changing Robe with Hood 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$27.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$27.99
Low Mid

Plenty of Colors Along With Convenient Buttons

This microfiber poncho comes with a kangaroo pouch, sleeve buttons. It has interesting color choices, such as camo options and a variety of blues. It even includes a handle on the back, making it easy to hang the poncho or carry it


Some reviewers wished the fabric was thicker. Despite that point, many reviewers liked that it absorbs water well and dries them off quickly. They also appreciated that it's roomy enough to change under and has strong seams.

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Open Road GoodsSurf Poncho

Surf Poncho 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$69.99
High
Reference price
$69.99
High

A Cotton Option With A Hood and Handy Pockets

This surf poncho makes itself stand out by using cotton instead of microfiber. The hood has drawstrings, too, giving you a better fit. It also has front buttons to make the poncho easier to take off. Plus, there is a small zippered pocket to keep your phone or keys safe.


A couple of reviewers reported that the hood is too small. On the other hand, most reviewers liked that it feels durable and thick. They also said that it's very comfortable, thick, and warm, saying it feels great after being in the water. Plus, they appreciated the utility of the zippered pocket. 

No.3

HiturboMicrofiber Surf Beach Wetsuit Changing Towel

Microfiber Surf Beach Wetsuit Changing Towel 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$23.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$23.99
Low Mid

A Lightweight Choice With Buttons and a Hanging Strap

This option has a lightweight design, weighing less than a pound and with a length of 44 inches. It includes other conveniences, such as sleeve buttons and a hanging strap to help it dry. It also comes in 10 different colors.


Some reviewers noticed the poncho didn't do as good of a job of drying them off compared to towels. However, quite a few reviewers liked that it's lightweight and compact, making it easy to store in a backpack or beach bag. They also said it covers them well, adding that the sleeve buttons make it easier for them to change.

No.4

SlowtideThe Digs Changing Poncho

The Digs Changing Poncho 1
Source:slowtide.co
Reference price
$79.95
High
Reference price
$79.95
High

A Cotton Poncho With a Lot of Design Options

This poncho comes with drawstrings for the hood, a front kangaroo pocket, and buttons on the front to take off the poncho. It's also made out of soft cotton, which makes it a unique choice among the various microfiber ponchos. You can choose between 10 different color options.


Most reviewers liked the functional design and soft texture of this poncho, saying it feels well-made. They also said it does a great job of keeping them comfortable and dry after swimming.

No.5

Dock & BayAdult Towel Poncho

Reference price
$40.00
High Mid

Different Size Options Along With a Storage Pouch

This option is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. It also comes with a storage pouch for the poncho, making it easier to bring it on trips. It also has an elastic hook, allowing you to dry the poncho as needed.


Some reviewers felt that this poncho doesn't do a good enough job of absorbing water and drying them off. Despite that point, many reviewers said it provides plenty of space for them to change. They also enjoyed the overall lightweight design of this poncho.

No.6

HiturboWetsuit Changing Robe Towel Poncho

Wetsuit Changing Robe Towel Poncho 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$35.99
Mid
Reference price
$35.99
Mid

A Lightweight Poncho With Long Sleeves

This lightweight poncho comes in a variety of eye-catching designs, ranging from florals to camo. It includes a front kangaroo pouch along with long sleeves to protect your skin from the sun. This product focuses on providing you protection from the cold and wind while drying you off.


A few reviewers complained that this poncho is too thin. However, plenty of other reviewers said it provides just enough space to cover them when they change. They also reported the lightweight design made it a good clothing option when you get out of the water.

No.7

VulkenHooded Beach Towel Changing Robe

Hooded Beach Towel Changing Robe 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$29.99
Mid
Reference price
$29.99
Mid

A Poncho Designed for Taller People

The manufacturer said this poncho fits people up to six feet and five inches in height. It comes with buttons on each side of the sleeves for easier changing. It also has a large hood designed to help you dry off your hair.


A few reviewers didn't like the lack of pockets on this surf poncho. Despite that point, plenty of reviewers said the poncho feels comfortable and warm. Also, reviewers over six feet tall confirmed that this poncho is long enough for them.

No.8

Ho StevieThick Microfiber Surf Poncho

Thick Microfiber Surf Poncho 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$34.97
Mid
Reference price
$34.97
Mid

A Poncho With a 47-Inch Length and Short Sleeves

This option is 47 inches long, giving you enough room to easily change while wearing it. It's designed to reach past the knees of a person around six feet and two inches tall. It also has short sleeves, making it a solid option for warmer weather. 


A few reviewers mentioned that the armholes run small. On the other hand, a good amount of reviewers confirmed that this poncho provides enough length and room to change. They also noticed the poncho dries them quickly and provides warmth.

No.9

CataloniaSurf Poncho Changing Towel Robe

Surf Poncho Changing Towel Robe 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$24.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$24.99
Low Mid

A Standard Surf Poncho With Plenty of Space

This poncho keeps things simple by providing you with a hood and microfiber fabric. Even though this product doesn't include pockets, it is machine washable and comes in different colors. The hood is also 17.5-inches tall, providing you plenty of space to dry off your hair.


A few reviewers found the fabric too thin, and others reported issues with the fabric ripping. However, most reviewers liked that this poncho provides plenty of room for them to change. They also felt it worked well for indoor use as a bathrobe or after a shower.

No.10

WinthomeSurf Poncho Changing Robe

Surf Poncho Changing Robe 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$24.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$24.99
Low Mid

A Microfiber Poncho That's Great for Kids

This option uses an 80/20 blend of polyester and polyamide, respectively. It has a simple design with two side pockets. It also includes a hood and wide armholes to ensure you can use the poncho to dry yourself off after a swim.


A couple of reviewers didn't like the material's functionality, saying it doesn't absorb water very well. However, lots of reviewers liked that this poncho is thick and warm. Many adults said it's large enough to change under, but they also said it's a great option for kids!

Planning a Trip to the Beach?

If you're planning to spend some time by the water, there are ways to make your trip easier. Here are some items that can make your beach day more convenient and comfortable!

Top 5 Surf Ponchos

No. 1: Sun CubeSurf Poncho Changing Robe with Hood

No. 2: Open Road GoodsSurf Poncho

No. 3: HiturboMicrofiber Surf Beach Wetsuit Changing Towel

No. 4: SlowtideThe Digs Changing Poncho

No. 5: Dock & BayAdult Towel Poncho

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
  1. TOP
  2. Sports and fitness
  3. 10 Best Surf Ponchos in 2022 (Slowtide, Sun Cube, and More)

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.