Ocean & Earth Surf Essentials LS Poncho Apparel

A poncho solves what a towel solves badly: changing in a car park or on the beach without a performance and without exposing yourself. The loose cut lets you peel off a wet wetsuit and put dry clothes on underneath, covered the whole time.

Terry towelling absorbs more than waffle and is noticeably warmer after cold water — the price is drying time: a long pile holds water for hours. If you surf twice a day, a terry poncho will still be damp for the evening session.

The long-sleeve version: the arms are covered rather than left open in wide armholes. On a windy beach or a cold morning that's a real difference.

The hood isn't decoration: your head cools first, and after a windy session the difference between a hooded poncho and a plain one is immediate.

Who it isn't for. For travelling light, terry is bulky and slow to dry — waffle is the better call. It's an awkward beach mat. And size by height: a short poncho stops doing the one job it exists for, which is covering you while you change.