10 Best Water Rowers 2026 in the United States

The YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine stands out as a solid choice for those seeking an effective full-body workout at home. Its water resistance system delivers a smooth rowing experience, mimicking the feel of actual rowing while engaging up to 90% of your muscle groups. This feature, combined with a comfortable seat designed for prolonged use, caters well to users aiming for fitness or rehabilitation. The inclusion of a rowing-dedicated monitor and Bluetooth connectivity allows for tracking performance and even participating in live classes, adding an interactive element to your workouts.

Construction-wise, the YOSUDA machine is built from durable aluminum and features a robust design that supports a weight capacity of up to 350 pounds. The aviation-standard polycarbonate tank ensures no water leaks, which is a significant concern with water rowers. Additionally, it’s compact and comes with wheels, making it easy to store and transport, which is particularly beneficial for users with limited space.

The machine weighs 58 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users to handle, despite the wheels. The monitor, while functional, may not offer advanced features seen in some higher-end models, such as heart rate monitoring. While the water sound adds an authentic touch, it could be perceived as noisy compared to magnetic resistance machines. The lifespan promise is reassuring, although some users might experience minor issues that could require customer service intervention.

The Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine stands out with its advanced magnetic resistance mechanism, which offers a smooth and adjustable workout experience. The build quality is robust with an aluminum frame, supporting a maximum weight of up to 375 pounds. Comfort is well-addressed with a padded seat, adjustable foot straps, and a low-stress grip handle, making it suitable for extended use without discomfort. The 16-inch HD touchscreen and built-in speakers enhance the workout experience by providing immersive live home workouts, although it requires a separate membership costing $44 per month for access to over 5,000 workouts.

The monitor also tracks various metrics, which is great for those who want detailed performance feedback. However, the need for a membership might be a downside for some users. For storage and portability, the Hydrow Wave is relatively compact and can be stored upright with an additional Upright Storage Kit. At 102 pounds, it is on the heavier side, but it is manageable with its foldable design.

Noise levels are minimal thanks to the magnetic resistance, making it suitable for home use without causing disturbances. This rowing machine is ideal for users seeking a comprehensive and smooth workout experience, with a willingness to invest in a monthly membership for enhanced features and workout variety.

The WaterRower Oak Rowing Machine is a high-quality fitness device that stands out for its elegant design and durable build. Handcrafted from oak wood and made in the USA, it uses sustainably sourced materials, which is a plus for environmentally conscious buyers. The machine features WaterFlywheel resistance, providing a smooth and natural rowing experience that mimics actual on-water rowing. This mechanism ensures that resistance increases with the intensity of your rowing, making it suitable for users of all fitness levels. The S4 monitor tracks essential metrics such as heart rate and distance, helping you monitor your workouts effectively. However, the monitor’s interface might seem basic compared to more tech-heavy alternatives on the market.

Comfort is well-addressed with ergonomic design, but the machine’s weight (103.5 lbs with water) might make it challenging to move around, although it can be stored upright to save space. Noise level is minimal compared to traditional air rowers, making it a good choice for home use where quiet operation is a priority. With a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, it accommodates a wide range of users.

Given its premium build and features, it is on the heavier and pricier side, which may not suit everyone's budget or space constraints. This rowing machine is best for users who value a well-crafted, long-lasting machine and are looking for a low-impact, full-body workout.