Can a £12.99 changing robe replace my DryRobe? I tested both after a River Thames swim

★★★★☆What we love: Incredible value, dries you while you change, packs easily into a beach bag, and is perfect for holidaysTake note: No hood, fleece lining or waterproof outer“At just £12.99, I wasn't expecting much from the Decathlon Surf Poncho, but it turned out to be perfectly functional. While there's no cosy fleece lining, waterproof outer or hood, it gave me exactly what I needed after a swim: somewhere private to get changed and a soft cotton fabric that helped dry me off while I changed out of my swimsuit.Since it's made entirely from cotton, it feels more like wrapping yourself in a large towel than wearing a coat. On warmer days, I wore it while changing into my shorts and t-shirt, before rolling it back up neatly in my swim bag. On colder days, I added an extra step of putting a hoodie on after it was packed away.It won't replace a fleece-lined robe for winter wild swimming, but at just £12.99, it's fantastic value. I’m genuinely tempted to buy a few more for the family before our next summer beach holiday, as they're an affordable and practical alternative to lugging bulky towels around.”Outer material: Cotton Lining: Cotton Sizes: One-size Colours available: One (grey) Waterproof: No Hood: No