The Paddler Magazine Issue 79 Late Summer 2024 | Page 12

PADDLER 12

REVIEWS

The Pursuit Robe comes in sizes S to XL with regular and long options in colours Obsidian Black , Ocean Blue and ( my favourite ) Olive Green .

Red Paddle Co Pursuit changing robe https :// red-equipment . co . uk By Sarah Thornely @ SUPjunkie . uk

Having owned two Red Paddle Co boards and various bits of kit , I truly know the quality and unique design features synonymous with the brand . That said , I have never owned any of their clothing apparel , so I was delighted to have been sent their new Pursuit Robe to road test . Changing robes for water users has become a huge business over the last few years , and we all have our favourite brand , but a hybrid jacket for active sports people seems like the best of both worlds .

Unpacking a new product is always exciting , and the first thing I noticed was the weight of this jacket . It is lightweight but has a certain “ drape ” that only comes with excellent-quality materials . I couldn ’ t wait to wear it , which is another good sign . So , here are some of the important technical details : it has a 4- way waterproof stretch shell made predominantly from recycled Polyester . The inner grid fleece is a nice change from the standard fleece and wicks away moisture effectively while regulating temperature .

It has a rating of 10K / 30K , is waterproof and breathable , and is designed to last – sustainability is at the heart of Red Paddle Co ., and they want you to value and own this coat for years to come . The durable water-repellent ( DWR ) waterproof coating is PFC-free , too , which means it isn ’ t harmful to the environment . We do have to listen to Companies like Red who make these statements ( rather than not !) if we are to make any difference to the planet ! They are also a certified B-Corp company .

There are pockets and features aplenty , and everything is so very neat and tidy : one inside stash pocket which could be used for your undies , a zipped breast pocket and what I love the most , four outer pockets , two zipped side and deep open hand

ones with poppers just above meaning you have plenty of space and options for hands , phones and essentials . The sleeve cuffs are adjustable with silicone fastenings and invisible seams all around , and the jacket feels contemporary with no obvious branding . There is another option for a clinched waist if this is your vibe , and the hood is adjustable with a neat peak for extra protection .

Subtle YKK zips and poppers all down the front are in keeping with the neat styling , and two very clever side zips that run from the bottom of the jacket to halfway under the arms open it right up for changing – such a clever idea to keep the jacket looking streamlined and smart when needed and practical whilst changing .

This jacket can be machine washed , tumbled , or naturally dried , and it ’ s recommended that it be reproofed every five washes .

SO , HAVE I ENJOYED WEARING THE PURSUIT ROBE ?

You bet I have ; it ’ s just so comfortable and doesn ’ t feel like the classic changing robe , so I ’ ve worn it around town too , and it has all the features and design you would expect from Red . Beautifully and stylishly made , I ’ ve used every pocket for its purpose , and I love the longer length that I ordered . Green for the win , too ; I do love black , but it ’ s refreshing to have something that will see me through the seasons .

I ’ ve also made use of the side zips , which are helpful when you need to change and give you ample room to do so . I ’ ve worn it in heavy rain , fierce winds and cooler days , and it perfectly regulates my temperature , so it ’ s never too hot but keeps me toasty warm . Technical clothing is incredible , isn ’ t it ? This jacket certainly does not disappoint – I can see myself wearing this everywhere and every day when a longer jacket is needed .

I look forward to checking out Red Paddle Co ’ s other kit and clothing on their website — the Pursuit Robe is of high quality all around ! RRP : £ 209.95