10 Best water resistance rowing machines 2025 in the United States

The YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine is a solid choice for home fitness enthusiasts. It features a water resistance mechanism, which provides a smooth and authentic rowing experience. The resistance levels are adjustable, allowing users to tailor their workouts. The build quality is robust with an aluminum frame that supports up to 350 lbs, ensuring durability and stability during use. Comfort is also a priority, with a super soft seat designed to fit the hip curve, which should make long workouts more bearable.

Ergonomically, the machine is well thought out, featuring dual aluminum slide rails that contribute to a quieter operation and a fluid rowing motion. The rowing-dedicated monitor tracks essential workout metrics and has Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to join live classes or work with a virtual personal trainer through an app. This could be advantageous for those who enjoy guided workouts or sharing progress with a community. The compact design of the machine is a significant advantage for those with limited space, covering only 4.27 square feet and equipped with wheels for easy movement.

Some may find that the water resistance mechanism, while quiet compared to air rowers, still produces a noticeable sound that might not be ideal for all home environments. Additionally, the monitor, while functional, uses AAA batteries which some users might find less convenient than a rechargeable option. Despite these minor drawbacks, the machine promises a full-body workout and comes from a reputable brand with a long-standing history in home exercise equipment, backed by a lifetime service promise.

The MERACH R06 Water Magnetic Rowing Machine offers a blend of water and magnetic resistance, making it suitable for a versatile and challenging workout. With 16 levels of adjustable resistance, it caters to both beginners and advanced users. The build quality is solid, featuring an alloy steel and aluminum frame that supports a maximum weight of 350 lbs, ensuring durability and stability.

Comfort is well-addressed with ergonomic design elements like non-slip, adjustable pedals and a 3D-shaped seat, although some might find the seat padding a bit firm over extended sessions. The double-track design and high-quality bearings contribute to a smooth and quiet rowing experience, perfect for home use without disturbing others. The machine's monitor and tracking are enhanced by the MERACH App and compatibility with KINOMAP, providing real-time metrics and trainer-led classes, though the reliance on a separate device for full functionality could be a drawback for some.

Assembling the rower is straightforward, typically taking about 45 minutes, and its space-saving design allows for easy storage in an upright position. It's relatively compact, occupying only 3.3 square feet when stored, making it a good option for those with limited space. Noise levels are minimal, thanks to the electromagnetic resistance and upgraded bearings. Tablets and phones are not included, which could be seen as an additional expense. The MERACH R06 is a robust and versatile option for those seeking a comprehensive home rowing machine with advanced features and a professional rowing experience.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Phantom Hydro Smart Water Rowing Machine offers a strong combination of features for those seeking an efficient and convenient home workout. Its water resistance mechanism provides a natural rowing experience, where the resistance dynamically increases with your effort, making it suitable for various fitness levels. The build quality is robust, with a durable alloy steel frame supporting up to 300 lbs, ensuring stability during intense workouts.

Comfort is also well-addressed with padded handlebars and a cushioned seat at an ergonomic height, reducing strain on your back. The machine’s monitor tracks essential metrics like time, distance, strokes, and calories, and it includes Bluetooth connectivity to sync with the SunnyFit App for additional features and virtual experiences. Its foldable design and transport wheels are ideal for users with limited space, allowing easy storage.

On the downside, the water resistance might be noisier than magnetic systems, possibly disrupting quiet environments. Additionally, while the digital monitor offers comprehensive tracking, some users might find the setup and app interface less intuitive. The rower suits fitness enthusiasts looking for a realistic rowing experience with advanced tracking and space-saving design.