10 Best Water Rowers 2025 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 WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine with S4 Monitor is a premium rowing machine designed for home and gym use. One of its standout features is its handcrafted build quality, made from sustainably sourced ash wood, which not only ensures durability but also adds an aesthetic appeal to any space. The machine uses a water-filled flywheel to create resistance, which closely mimics the natural feeling of rowing on water. This feature provides a smooth and consistent resistance that increases with your effort, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

The S4 Monitor effectively tracks key metrics like distance, making it easier to monitor your workout progress. In terms of comfort and ergonomics, the WaterRower Ash offers a low-impact cardiovascular exercise that engages 84% of your muscle mass, including legs, core, back, and arms, while being gentle on the joints. Storage is convenient as the machine can be stored upright, though it is relatively large and weighs 103.5 pounds with water, which might make it less portable for some users.

Additionally, the noise level is low, thanks to the water resistance mechanism, making it suitable for shared living spaces. On the downside, the price point is on the higher end, reflecting its premium build and features. Also, while the S4 Monitor is functional, it might lack advanced tracking features found in more high-tech models. Nonetheless, for those seeking a high-quality, reliable, and visually appealing rowing machine, the WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine is a strong contender.

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.